revisit the three kingdoms 02

International Journal for Romance of the Three Kingdoms

Volume I • Issue 2 • February 2002

Revisiting the Three Kingdoms

Historical Articles

Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) --------------------------------------------------------------------------3

Late Han Dynasty Bureaucracy-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------14

Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tze-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21

Quarterly Theme Deck

Quarterly Theme Deck - Yellow Turban (Cheese)...........................................................................................................25

Adventure Seeds

Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynasty.......................................................................................................28

Table of Content

The cover art, Call for Reinforcement , is illustrated by Solomon Au Yeung of the Creator Workshop for both the Dragon Dynasty CCG and Romance of the Three Kingdoms Card Game. Romancing Cathay thanks Solomon Au Ye-ung for allowing us to use his arts and others throughout this issue.

Revisiting the Three Kingdoms Quarterly is, for now, a free pdf magazine dedicated to the advocacy and increase general awareness of Ro-mance of the Three Kingdoms period.

We are currently releasing quarterly issues on the World Wide Web. Each issue is a collection of historical translation and game related materials to Romancing Cathay. Occasionally, FAQs for our published games and membership update are also included. Revisiting the Three Kingdoms Quarterly’s first issue appeared on late November, 2001.

We are currently updating the Sub-mission Guideline on our website for those who are interested in submitting an article to Revisiting the Three Kingdoms Quarterly. We will have it ready by end of March. We hope these issues would encourage others to contribute their work.

The staff of Revisiting the Three Kingdoms Quarterly review and edit articles, correspond with authors, compile issues, manage the various technical issues and sales information

with the website. The current staff is

Chuan Lin, Editor, ([email protected])

Of course, Revisiting the Three Kingdoms Quarterly could not exist without the generous contributions of time and efforts by PA Sicart, our au-thors, the Creator Workshop, CartoonWin.com, and Koei Corp.

All arts and articles copyright their original authors.

Editor Notes:

There are some glaring rough spots in this issue. I am very sorry for them. The timing was poor on my part. And this is an obvious rush job. It comes down to deciding whether or not to delay the publication for additional editing or to release on time (albeit a day late) with these mistake. I choose the later. This will serve as a reminder to me to manage my time better for future issues and projects.

Initially, I thought of doing articles on online games with Three Kingdoms theme. These ideas are discarded as I

found out how much time they re-quired for participation. And these times are better spent elsewhere as there are more things that I want to write about.

However, I do plan for future issue to include listing of games with Three Kingdoms theme.

Recently I have been in contacted with Steffan O’Sullivan, author of FUDGE RPG system. I have read his rules and licensing. It is very possible for me to create Fudge Revisiting the Three Kingdoms RPG. The system is clean and very to understand. Cur-rently, it is in exploratory stage.

On other related news, with release of Jadeclaw RPG and the schedule for supplement release is far and few in between, I decide to do a quarterly pdf newsletter similar to this one. The tentative title is Warring States Quarterly. It will be smaller scale than Revisiting the Three Kingdoms Quarterly (10-20 page vs 30-60) and fewer arts. But it will useful articles about the world of Zhongguo for the Host and players.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) Black Moun-tain Bandits

The Alliance, after Cao Cao had left, broke up without accom-plished anything. They cited the lack of sup-plies as main reason. There were squabbles among leaders. Replac-ing the Alliance were the Northern and the Southern anti-Dong Zhuo Factions. Yuan

Shao led the Northern Faction. They have few skirmishes with Dong Zhuo Government, but overall, posed little threats. Yuan Shu led the Southern Faction. They have given Dong Zhuo Government a much harder time with Sun Jian being their vanguard com-mander. And due to Sun Jian's military accomplishment, the Southern Faction was more prominent of the two. Yuan Shao, wanted to outdone his half-brother, mulled over whether or not to disavow the current emperor and had Liu Yu, a distant imperial bloodline and the Inspector of You Province, to

be declared as the new emperor. Known for his strategic planning, Yuan Shao came to ask Cao Cao for his advice.

Cao Cao explained to him the current position,

"The reason we received sup-ports from provinces and com-manderies was our support for the current Emperor and against Dong Zhuo Govern-ment. At present, the Emperor is young and held hostage by rogue mandarin. He is not cor-rupted. There is no need to disavow. And if he is to be replaced in present situation, would there not be more chaos in the Heaven Below? If my lords insists to go to the North and supports Liu Yu, My loy-alty remains with the Emperor at Chang-an."

Nonetheless, Yuan Shao wanted to follow through with his plan. But, re-ceived little support from elsewhere, he decided to drop that idea. Unfortu-nately, the damage had been done. The Northern anti-Dong Zhuo Faction had officially severed its ties with the Im-perial Liu Household.

In February of the Second Year of East Han Emperor Xian's Early Peace (191 A.D.), Dong Zhuo promoted himself as the Grand Master, thus, elevated himself above all.

From the South, Sun Jian resumed to attack remaining troops at Luo-yang. Dong Zhuo sent Lu Bu and Hua Xiong to join force with Hu Zhen. But the infighting between Lu Bu and Hu Zhen allowed Sun Jian to break through. Hua Xiong was killed in bat-tle. [But in Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Guan Yu was credited for killing Hua Xiong.] Sun Jian captured Luo-yang. It is rumored that he had

found the Imperial Seal while cleaning out the Imperial Han Ancestral Tem-ple. Later, this became the source of contention within the Southern anti-Dong Zhuo Faction.

In the mean time, the Northern Faction disintegrated when Yuan Shao wrestled the control of Yi Province from the rightful Inspector Han Fu and fought against Gong-sun Zan for the Northern Supremacy. Both were his former allies.

During these events, Cao Cao re-mained subordinate under Yuan Shao and tried not to get involved in affairs of Yuan brothers. He met Xun Yu, the Talented Scholar from the Ying Prov-ince (modern day He-nan Province). After their first meet, Cao Cao happily remarked,

"You, are mine Zhang Zi-fang (or Zhang Liang, the chief ar-chitect for the Foundation of Han Dynasty)!"

He transferred his title, the Invigo-rate Martial General, to Xun Yu as gift. In addition, Cao Cao promoted Xun Yu to position of the Martial Seize Major.

That year, Cao Cao was thirty-seven of age, and Xun Yu was twenty-nine years old. And Cao Cao fortune began to change. This event was dupli-cated several years later when Liu Bei met Zhu-ge Liang.

In July of the Second Year of Early Peace (191 A.D.), Cao Cao re-ceived a request to help stop Black Mountain Bandits from attacking the Eastern Region. Black Mountain Ban-dits have over hundred thousand men. They attacked and took over Wei Commandery of Yan Province. Now, they posed a threat to the Eastern Re-gion, which occupied both side of Yel-low River. The existing governor could not handle the attack and peti-

Cao Cao

Xun Yu the Talented Scholar from Ying Province

Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG

Cao CaoHis luck began to change for the better after leav-ing the Alliance and met up with Xun Yu


Yuan ShaoLeader of the Northern Faction



tioned for assistant.

Cao Cao used the same tactic against Black Mountain Bandits by having Xia-hou Dun conducted a fron-tal assault. As enemy was occupied, he led an elite force of Iron Cavalry to attack from behind. Black Mountain Bandits was unorganized and when faced unexpected attack, they were nearly annihilated. For his effort, Cao Cao became the Grand Administrator of Eastern Region. To gain rapport with the locals, he relocated his base to Dong-wu-yang. Finally, Cao Cao had a base of operation.

After half year of rest, in Spring of the Third Year of Early Peace (192 AD), Black Mountain Bandits wanted to avenge their early humiliation by attacking Cao Cao. Their destination was the new capital of Eastern Prov-

ince, Dong-wu-yang.

Alert by his spy network, Cao Cao com-manded both Xun Yu and Cao Ren to de-fend the city. He led the main force to camp at Dun-qiu, two hundred miles south west of Dong-wu-yang. It is at the exact mid dis-tance from Black Moun-tain to Dong-wu-yang. For this coming battle, Cao Cao decided to match wits in-stead of brute force against

numerous but untrained bandits. He chose the battle to be taking place at Nei-huang, one hundred miles north west of Dun-qiu. Its strategic signifi-cant is that it is also at the midpoint between Black Mountain and Dong-wu-yang. Cao Cao estimated that Black Mountain Bandits were numer-ous and lacked discipline. Their move-ment would be slow. Even cavalry would take two days to travel from Black Mountain to Dong-wu-yang. But from Dun-qiu to Black Mountain would require only a day for cavalry. And from Dun-qiu to Nei-huang would take less than half a day for cavalry. According to Cao Cao's plan, his troops would arrive to the battle-field much faster than Black Mountain Bandits. This would be a battle of mo-bility.

Cao Cao divided his light cavalry

force into several smaller squadrons so Black Mountain Bandits would as-sume them to be scouts and not as a threat. Then he waited for hundred thousands of Black Mountain Bandits to leave the mountain and marched pass Dun-qiu. He regrouped his forces into two. One garrisoned Nei-huang. Another attacked headquarter of these bandits, the Black Mountain.

Xun Yu defended the city and blunted Black Mountain Bandits siege. Soon, the enemy camp received news that their headquarter has been at-tacked. Situation was very critical. The entire army abandoned everything in an attempt to return to bring relief to home base. Cao troops at Nei-huang harassed the retreating army along the way but withdrew immediately if ac-tively engaged. Black Mountain Ban-dits, confidant of their numerical strength, decided to give chase. Un-known to them, they were slowly sur-rounded. Cao force, that attacked headquarter, was already on its way back to Nei-huang. From the city, Cao Ren led troops to pursuit.

Still Black Mountain Bandits were confident of their superior number of men. But daily force marches have exhausted them. Cao troops were only have to travel short distance to enter into battlefield and were well-rested while await for enemy advanced to-ward them. And despite having smaller number, Cao troops were able to surround Black Mountain Bandits from all side. Opposing leaders never knew the exact number of their enemy. Instead, they felt that attacks were from every corner. They were being massacred by more professional troops. They were defeated. Since the time of Han Emperor Ling, marauding Black Mountain Bandits had been dominated the North South of Yellow River near Eastern Region. They were no more.

Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD)

Map Explanation

1 Black Mountain Bandits started from this area. Their pincer attacks were successful. Government forced to seek help from Cao Cao.

2 Cao Cao used simi-lar tactics against Black Mountain Bandits.

3 In gratitude, the government nomi-nated Cao Cao to be their leader. He relocated his force to Dongwuyang.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) Additional benefit from this battle

was the destruction of northern barbar-ian, Huns (South Xiong-nu). They were allied of Black Mountain Ban-dits. Huns barbarians have been raided both Bing Province and Yi Province for nearly hundred years. Their loss at the Battle of Nei-huang had brought decades of peace to the northern China.

Around that time, Yuan Shao de-feated Gong-sunZan for the control of Iy Province. Gong-sunZan barely hold on to southern You Province. Dong Zhuo controlled both Si-li Region and Bing Province. Various warlords sta-tioned in Yen Province and Yu Prov-ince. Yuan Shu controlled major portion of Yu Province and northern Yang Province. Liu Biao consolidated his hold of Jing Province. Tao Qian was at Yu Province. Liu Yan was at Yi Province. Zhang Lu was at Han-zhong. These warlords slowly exerted their independence from Choa-ting (the imperial court). The one who lost the most were commoners; everything they have owned had been destroyed. Cao Cao being sympathized to the plight of commoners, wrote a poetry, On the Road to Song, to show his frustration at events of that time.

On the Road to SongRighteous men gathered at Guan-dong, raised troops against maligned group

Initially they allied at Meng-jin, their hearts still at Luo-yang.

Troops arrived but lacked strength, vacillate like aimless wild geese.

Power caused men to com-pete, to posses through in fighting.

Younger at Huai-nan declared emperor, Elder at North carved seal.

Flea infested beneath armor suits, ten thousands names

were eradicated.

White bones dotted across wilderness, thousand miles without rooster announced.

Commoners survived one in hundred, these thoughts rent one's stomach.

Qing Provincial Troops

On the Third Year of East Han Emperor Xian's Early Peace (192 A.D.), a shocking news came out of Chang-an. Dong Zhuo, grand minister who held Emperor hostage, and who survived attacks of Alliance, was as-sassinated by his trusted minister, Wang Yun, and his step-son, Lu Bu. Newly established capital, Chang-an, had engulfed into turmoil and chaos. Despite what had occurred, not one in former Alliance paid much attention. They were too busy to establish their

turfs. It was at this time, Cao Cao received his greatest military gift, Qing Provincial Troops.

They were originally members of Yellow Turban raised by Zhang Jiao and his brothers. By the time their leaders were defeated within Si-li Re-gion, these troops were numbered in millions. Since then, they dispersed and waited in secret for opportunity. As Choa-ting (the imperial court) be-came impotent, Qing Provincial Yel-low Turbans began active again. The Inspector of Qing Provincial ousted them. Early on, they attempted to join force with Black Mountain Bandits. But, they met Gong-sunZan along the way. He defeated them and forced them to flee to Yen Province. There, they have much more success. Qing Province Yellow Turbans defeated In-

Map Legend1 After more than half

of year of recupera-tion, Black Mountain Bandits wanted a re-match. They marched toward Dong-yang-cheng.

2 Alert by his spies, Cao Cao send his cavalry forces to Dun-qiu which is half way be-tween Black Mountain and Dong-yang-cheng.While Black Mountain Bandits attempted to siege the city, Cao Cao sent half of his cavalry to attack the base of these rogues.

3 Alarmed by the attack to their home base, Bandits retreated but got harassed by Cao cavalry force. They turned to Dun-qiu.

4 By then, returning cavalry joined by forces from the city have the Bandits sur-rounded at Dun-qiu. Bandits were de-stroyed.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) spector of Yen Province and sacked two cities. The Eastern Region, where Cao Cao located, was within their striking distance.

To strengthen their defense, Cao Cao invited local leaders to an emer-gency military meeting. There, Chen Gong, from the Eastern Region Wu-yang area, volunteered to speak to staff members of deceased Inspector of Yen Provincial governor and to persuade them into accepting Cao Cao as the new Inspector. If successful, Chen Gong believed that Cao Cao would finally have the foundation he needed to become a contender. Cao Cao was excited by this proposition and granted Chen Gong permission to initiate the talk. By then, staff members of Yen-Province Inspector were worried due to both the death of Inspector and the

approaching Qing Provincial Yellow Turbans. They listened to Chen Gong suggestion and Bao Xin of Ji-bei also threw in his support. They personally went to the East Region's Wu-yang [city] to invite Cao Cao to be their Inspector. He accepted and immedi-ately began to reorganize the Yen Pro-vincial militia. He made preparation for the upcoming battle with Qing Pro-vincial Yellow Turbans.

Facing such opposition whose size was ten times of his troops, Cao Cao, nonetheless, was confidant of be able to defeat them. He pointed out several flaws of Qing Provincial Yellow Tur-bans. They lacked horses, which re-duced their mobility. Their size was large, yet, there was no sense of orga-nization. They have repeated suc-cesses in Yen though, therefore, their

alertness was not high. The battle would not be fought by frontal assault. Instead, there would be a series of skirmishes to chip away Yellow Tur-bans morale. Once morale dropped, it would be easy to destroy them.

With Light Cavalry, Cao Entered A Trap

Cao Cao had selected the battle-field to be at Shou-zhang [City] (in modern day San-dong Province, southwest of Dong-ping District). There was a wide-open plain, per-fected for cavalry battle. Yellow Tur-bans main base was very close by. Yet, Cao Cao personally led Bao Xin with a thousand combined troops of cavalry and infantry to scout the front line. Cao Cao was excited and proud of his tactic. As they rode, he explained to

Bao Xin of his plans. He did not realize that he only had couple hundreds of cavalry with him and was way ahead of his foot sol-diers when they sud-denly met Yellow Turbans raiding party of several thousands. The battlefield was not optimized for cav-alry maneuver.

They were out-numbered and almost annihilated. Bao Xin asked a small group of elite cavalry to form rearguards in order for Cao Cao to escape. He would stay behind and hold the lines as long as they could. At first, Cao Cao refused; but Bao Xin pointed out that his troops could not do without their leader. For the sake of

Qing Provincial Troops.


Map Legend1 Qing Provincial Yel-

low Turbans were remnant of the Famed Yellow Tur-bans. They were ousted by Qing Pro-vincial Inspector.

2 On their way to Black Mountain, Gong-sun Zhan defeated them. They forced to re-treat southward to Yen Province.

3 They have much suc-cess there. Sacked two cities and de-feated Yen Provincial Inspector. And they were approaching toward Cao Cao land.

1

2

3


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) all, Cao Cao relented and fled. The defending troops were all perished along with Bao Xin.

Bao Xin was a wealthy man and came from a respectable family. Since early days of Alliance, he was one of few supporters of Cao Cao. Bao Xin had encouraged Cao Cao when the latter was at his lowest point. He died because of Cao Cao carelessness. Cao Cao was heart-broken. Despite his re-wards, the remains of Bao Xin were not found. He had a wooden statue carved out of likeness of Bao Xin to be ceremonially buried.

Relentless Chases, Merciless Bouts

To honor Bao Xin, Cao Cao wanted to win this battle fast.

He gathered available youths and trained them for battle. Cao Cao was in armor all day and personally exercised battle formation. Troop morale was high. There were new troops arrived. And combined with remaining force of Yen Provincial militia and Bao Xin own personal troops, Cao's army was getting larger.

On the other hand, Yellow Turban had loose organization and lacked mil-itary expertise. Though they were many, they could not stand Cao Cao round-a-clock attacks. He never gave them time to recover. He sent out one-tenth of his highly mobile force to harass opponents while his bulk of his force recuperated and rested. There-fore, Cao Cao troops were always fresh and eager while enemy became tired and weary. Yellow Turbans mo-rale decreased rapidly, and eventually became rout.

By then, Cao Cao had calm down and through things through. He real-ized that the solution to people upris-ing was not through military might.

That was but a temporary solution. Politic was necessary, to achieve the lasting peace. Once Yellow Turbans have lost will to fight, he began to negotiate for opposition to surrender. During talk session, Cao Cao rear-ranged his troops, planned for new battleground, and set up ambushes. When the talk broke off, Cao Cao resumed his attacks. This time, instead of totally annihilation, his objective was to harass and to force opponents to retreat toward one final trap. Then Cao Cao had his troops garrison the checkpoints to prevent Yellow Tur-bans from breaking out.

When winter came, Yellow Tur-bans surrendered without conditions. Cao Cao was pleased and forgave their past transgressions. Elderly, weak, and those unsuited for military service were sent home to work on farms. The remaining three hundred thousands were regrouped and trained to become what would be known as Qing Provin-cial Troops. They farmed on govern-ment land when not involved in military training or activity.

This solved the problem of Yellow Turbans; increased farming productiv-ity; and rebuild society after years of war. More importantly, combined with Qing Provincial Troops with Yen Pro-vincial militia and Bao Xin force, Cao Cao finally had sufficient military strength to be a world-class contender. He received supports from officials throughout Yen Province. Yuan Shao nominated Cao Cao to become the Inspector of Yen Province. This, in effect, elevated him to the warlord status. Only after end of Qing Provin-cial Yellow Turban Crisis, did the Chang-an government appointed in-spector arrive. Cao Cao stopped him at the border and forced him to flee and to seek protection under Yuan Shu.

Upheld Son of Heaven, Use Militia to Garrison Farm

During the interim between the assassination of Dong Zhuo and death of Wang Yun, the antagonistic nature between various warlords and the Chang-an Government had been re-solved. Actually, these warlords have all but forgotten the existence of the Han Government and were busy ex-panded their territories. Of those, the feud between the Yuan brothers was especially fierce. Cao Cao was pro-Yuan Shao and fought for him against both Liu Bei and Tao Qian who were pro-Yuan Shu. And secretly, Cao Cao maintained an open channel to the Im-perial Han Household at Chang-an.

Mao Jie, an advisor of Cao Cao, even suggested the following,

"Heaven Below had sundered, various lords maintained their holds. Though both Yuan Shao and Liu Biao have maintained large army, they lacked foresight and unwill-ing to contribute to the stabili-zation of the nation's fundamental. Choa-ting (imperial court) has no trea-sury to govern this nation, Hundred Names (term for common folks) have no wealth to stabilize homes. This crisis will not last. One has to raise troops in the name of the Righteous in or-der to win, and one has to have an official title in order to maintain cash flows. Therefore, Illuminate Grand (honor title to one's master), a strategy has to develop that upheld Son of Heaven in or-der to berate the unfaithful, and to garrison farms in order to stockpile supplies. Only

Chen Gong, the other Cao Cao supporter, who engineered him to become Inspector of Yen Province.


Bao Xin, one of two Cao Cao supporter, who helped him to become Inspector of Yen Prov-ince.



Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) then, a hegemony can be es-tablished."

Mao Jie's suggestion became what was known later as the Up-held Son of Heaven, Use Militia for Farm Stratagem. Initially, Cao Cao did not immediately respond to it. Still, the thought must have struck a chord in his mind. For next ten years of his life, he based his policy on this policy.

Third Year of Early Peace (192 A.D.) had been fruitful to Cao Cao's career. First, he gained control of Yen Province. He re-

ceived three hundred thousands Qing Provincial Troops. He gained a de-tailed strategic plan from Mao Jie. And last but not least, Cao Zhi was born.

Six Hundred Miles Relentless Pursuit

Fourth Year of Early Peace (193 A.D.), Cao Cao's force faced off with Yuan Shu, the Leader of Southern

anti-Dong Zhuo Faction.

After pacified Yen Province, Cao Cao moved his personal army to Zhen-cheng [City] (modern day, East of Shan-dong Pu-yang Province). At that time, Jing Provincial Inspector, Liu Biao, had put more pressure on Yuan Shu's troop who stationed near the northeast boundary and cut off the supplies source. Yuan Shu, in turn, was forced to expand elsewhre; he moved into Cao Cao's land.

Yuan Shu placed his main force at Feng-qiu cheng [City] to gather re-maining forces of Black Mountain Bandits and Huns barbarians. He planned to pincer attack from the West. Once, they were ready, Yuan Shu commanded Liu Xiang to lead an expeditious force to threat Cao Cao army at Zhen cheng and to issue a challenge. However, Liu Xiang was frightened of Cao Cao's fighting abili-ty. He halted and stationed his forces at Kaung-ting (ancient police stable) at the south of Pu-shui River.

Based on the intelligence gather-ing, Cao Cao was able to guess Yuan Shu's plan of three pronged attacks against Zhen cheng. Yuan Shu's objective was to frighten off other auxiliary or pro-Cao forces in order to isolate Cao Cao's force. How-ever, Cao Cao did recognize a tactical flaw within this sounded plan. Liu Xiang's expedi-tious force was meant to draw out Cao Cao's force,

but it was a mistake to choose Kaung-ting as the battlefield. Theoretically on the map, the distance from Kaung-ting to Chen-liu [City] is shorter than to Zhen-cheng [City] by a day's of foot march. But in actually, Cao's force only had to cross one river to reach Kaung-ting whereas Yuan Shu had to travel four rivers. At that time, it was time consuming to move troops across river. If Cao force hurried, they could reach Kaung-ting long before Yuan Shu's main force. Yuan Shu allies, Black Mountain Bandits and Huns (South Xiong-nu) barbarians, would take even longer to arrive. By then, the battle may be over.

Cao Cao decided to take the pre-emptive strike.

Xun Yu began to gather troops throughout Yen Province to Zhen-cheng. This caused Yuan Shu into thinking that Cao Cao was prepared for a large-scale battle at the city. In-stead, Cao Cao personally led all cav-alry troops to quickly cross the Pu-shui River to attack Yuan Shu's expeditious force at Kaung-ting. While waiting for further instruction, Liu Xiang was caught surprised by Cao Cao who quickly annihilated the entire force. The battlefield was soon cleared to prepare for the next battle. This also brought enough time for Xun Yu to have the main force ready and for Cao Ren led them to Kaung-ting.

Yuan Shu still believed that Cao Cao was with the main force and that there was only minor expedition force at Kaung-ting. He took his time to move his army across four rivers for the eventual confrontation. He thought his force would sufficiently awe Cao's troop into not dare to commit suicidal attack against his main force.

Cao Cao was also counted on that attitude. As majority of Yuan Shu's troop had crossed the final river, but

Yuan Shu, Leader of Southern Faction


Yuan Shu Initial Plan

1 Black Mountain Ban-dits would attack from the North.

2 Yuan Shu would lead the Central Army.

3 Liu Xiang would lead the Southern Army.

He planned to isolate Cao Cao from rest of Provincial force.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) had yet set up formation, Cao Cao attacked. Despite having superior number, once he real-ized that he had made a grave mistake, Yuan Shu lost his will to fight. He withdrew his troop to Feng-qiu cheng [City] to redraw the battle. How-ever, Cao Cao pressed and had the city siege.

Yuan Shu did not have the time to determine how many troops Cao Cao had; he was scared witless. Once he heard the advance of Cao's forces toward Feng-qiu cheng [City], he quickly abandoned it. He retreated one hundred fifty li (75 km/46.6 miles) southeast, crossed three riv-ers and arrived at Da-xiang Yi [City]. Yet, before he could catch his breath, reports came in about the approaching Cao's force. Yuan Shu quickly moved to a nearby more defensible city, Tai-shou cheng, and raised the cease-fire shield.

Ever since the force withdraw of some over

two hundred li (100+ km/62.1+ miles), Yuan Shu had lost more than half of his force. Not even a third was present by the time he entered Tai-shou cheng [City]. On the other hand, Cao Cao had met up with Cao Ren's force and now they have the numerical superiority.

Yuan Shu hoped the strong impregnable walls of Tai-shou cheng would deter Cao Cao. But the city is located on lowland by the river. This was spring and river had risen. Cao Cao sent some force to up river to prepare to divert and flood the city. Yuan Shu quickly abandoned the city and led few personal guards across the river to another city, Ning-jun cheng, on a higher land. Still Cao Cao was closed behind and pre-pared to siege.

Yuan Shu finally gave up and fled. This time, not only had he left Yen Province, but fled

across Yu Province and into Yang Province. He was so shook up by Cao's force that he did not stop until he crossed the Yang-tze River and into Jiu-jiang-cheng [City]. From Kaung-ting to Jiu-jiang-cheng, Yuan Shu had withdrew more than six hundred li (300+ km/186+ miles) like a dog with tail between its leg. The leader of Southern Faction had been defeated by a recent upstart! Others began to pay more attention to the new-comer, Cao Cao.

In reality, it was a difficult effort from Cao Cao. This was purely a battle of the hearts. He never gave Yuan Shu a time to calm down to think it over. Once Cao Cao had surprised his opponent, he relentless pressed. Even if he wanted to, Cao Cao did not have sufficient strength to destroy Yuan Shu's force. Many times, he appeared to have Yuan Shu surrounded

but allowed Yuan Shu to escape. Cao Cao's objective was to frighten off Yuan Shu.

It was during this time, Cao Cao coined the popular phase, Quench Thirst By Mention Plum. On one of the persistent chases, Cao force had traveled a day and a night with little to drink. There was no water supply on route and too much time would be lost to dug a well. Troops was getting slower and slower. Cao Cao was out front rallied the troops.

He quickly pointed to a distant wood and claimed,

“Men, ahead of us is the plum tree forest. There would be more than enough plums to quench our thirst. Please, ev-eryone bears with it just a little

In Reality

Liu Xiang faltered at Kaung-ting.

Yuan Shu have to ferry over 4 rivers in order to meet up with Liu Xiang.

Cao Cao had to ferry only 1 river and saw an opportunity. He took a chance.

Results

Yuan Shu just kept running after he realized that it was Cao Cao awaited at the shore of Kaung-ting.

Cao Cao kept pressure on Yuan Shu. But he always leave a escape route for Yuan Shu to run.

Cao Ren joined forces with Cao Cao during the pursuit.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD)

bit longer.”

Upon hearing that, troops gave a loud cheer. They began to salivate by imaged how those sour plums would taste. Their spirits improved, and thirsts were quenched. Hence, the phase, Quench Thirst By Mention Plum, became known.

This entire battle lasted from end of winter to early fall of following year.

BetrayalsAfter defeating Yuan Shu, Cao

Cao reputation had increased. Local governments throughout Yen Province were submitted to him. Despite his idealistic nature, Cao Cao was also a realist. He reflected that without pow-er, his idea was but empty. So, after control Yen Province, his most impor-tant priority was to expand his holding to increase his strength. He began to analyze his surrounding.

To his north was the leader of Northern Alliance, Yuan Shao. He was much more experienced than his half brother, Yuan Shu. Yuan Shao had many gifted advisors and able generals. Through scheme, he had re-placed Han Fu to gain own-ership of Yi Province. Through might, he had fended off fierce Gong-sun Zan's troops from encroach-ing Yi Province. He was un-disputed master of the north.

To his southwest, Jing Province was vast and rich. And under Liu Biao govern-ing, people lives were stable and defense was strong. Not to mention the fact that Yu Province was in between. Most local governments there were semi-autonomy. There were many warlords who maintained their sepa-rate influences and controls. To become the Inspector of Yu Province would be but an empty title.

To his east, Xu Province was con-sidered to be the paradise. It was un-touched by turmoil of Yellow Turbans. Tao Qian, Inspector of Xu Province, was a capable minister who maintained peace and tranquility. No matter what happened to rest of the world, he played part of non-partici-pant. Steadily, he defended this rich and plentiful land.

It was very obvious to Cao Cao as on where to make his next move.

Liu Biao

Jing Province

Sun Ce

Yang Province

Yuan Shu

Yang Province

Cao Cao

Yen Province

Tao Qian

Xu Province

Gosung Zhan

Yu ProvinceYuan Shao

Yi Province

YellowRiver

Luo-yangChang-an

Political Sphere as of 194 A.D.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) Xu Province, Paradise in Turmoil Time

Fourth Year of Early Peace (193 AD) was a very chaotic time. In sum-mer, Dong Zhuo was assassinated and the Chang-an government fell apart. The leader of Southern Faction, Yuan Shu, was defeated by Cao Cao who was considered to be a minor power. Tao Qian thought it was time to make his move. He wanted to become a contender to the throne with Xu Prov-ince as his base.

Tao Qian was a cautious man. He created a puppet warlord, Pi Xuan, who claimed to be emperor at Xia Pi. Through him, Tao Qian attacked and claimed two cities from Qing-Prov-ince. Next, his goal was to advance to Sili Region. This required a passage-way through Cao Cao's Yen Province. Tao Qian was confident and did not bother to parley with Cao Cao. He attacked and held Ren cheng, a south-ern city of Yen Province.

After four months of marathon battles against Yuan Shu, Cao Cao wanted to give his troops a well-de-served rest and recuperation. He paid no attention to Tao Qian's incursion other than to hold on strategic area. Tao Qian had given a free passage through southern Yen Province. At the end of fall season when harvest had gathered and military was well sup-plied. Cao Cao decided its time to act. Instead of confronting Tao Qian head on, he used the Scheme, Surround Wei to Rescue Zhao, and attacked Xu Prov-ince instead.

Tao Qian's main force was away, and defenders were inexperienced, Cao troops were able to take over 10 cities in one fell swoop. Upon hearing the news, Tao Qian knew he had fallen to a trap and quickly rushed back to Xu Zhou. He chose outskirts of Peng-cheng [City] (modern day, Xu Zhou

City), a strong military base, to con-front Cao troops.

Sadly, Tao Qian did not know himself nor his opponent. His troops were mostly farmers and fought on foot. On the other hand, Cao Cao was specialized in cavalry battle. His most destructive force was the cavalry. Once Tao Qian chose the wide-open plain outside of Peng-cheng, he had sealed his own fate.

Cao cavalry smashed through Xu Zhou infantry like hot knife through butter. Infantries were not very mobile and only have short reach weapons. They were obliterated with deaths ranged in ten of thousands; blood flow like river; and bodies blocked the wa-terway. Tao Qian retreated eastward to Yan-cheng [City], one hundred fifty li (38+ miles/61+ km) away. He lost half of Xu Province.

Vengeful MassacreIn the Fifth Year of Early Peace

(194 AD), Cao Cao family had suf-fered a tragedy as one of aftermaths from the Battle of Peng-cheng.

Cao Song, Cao Cao's father, had fled to Xu Province during early days of Dong Zhuo tyranny. He was a good friend of Tao Qian and Xu Province was reputed to be the Haven of China. After the last battle, Tao Qian fol-lowed the tradition and simply ex-pelled Cao Song. Zhang Men, a general under Tao Qian, was the es-cort. Cao Song's caravan was made of over hundred vehicles. It contained so much wealth that Zhang Men began to covet. Near the border of Xu Province and Qing Province, he decided to raid. Cao's family was all killed. Zhang Men disappeared with misbegotten wealth.

When Cao Cao returned to Zhen-cheng [City] after victory at Xu Prov-ince, he heard the tragic news. He

vowed to take vengeance against Tao Qian. When summer came, he reorga-nized troops and attack Xu Province for the second time.

Cao Cao had controlled both Peng-cheng [City] and Xia Pi [City] as result from previous battle. There, he build a city, Cao-gong, to commemo-rate his father. And in the name of vengeance, he ordered massacred of people of Xu Province in three com-manderies. There was no survivor. The world was shocked at Cao Cao's vil-lainy. Such action also brought in two pro-Tao Qian leaders: Kong Rong, Inspector of Bei-hai Region, and Liu Bei, an ally of Gong-sun Zan.

Since Tao Qian still hidden within Yan-cheng [City], he had fortified its strong defensible position. And Cao Cao knew that people were still pro-Tao Qian, Cao Cao decided to destroy forces around the city and then pre-pared a long siege. He wanted to elim-inated Tao Qian once and for all.

For Tao Qian, he thought he had figured Cao Cao out. First, he contin-ued to shore up defense at Yan-cheng. And he avoided the open plain warfare and preferred the bullhorn maneuver. He established two points opposite and away from the city. One located at Xiang-ben cheng [City] which located northwest from Yan-cheng. Another is an alliance force of his own general, Cao Bao, Kong Rong and Liu Bei. They stationed at east of Yan-cheng and instructed to harass Cao troops.

Again, Cao Cao found fault within Tao Qian's plan. But hiding the main force within the city, it demonstrated that Tao Qian had lost the will to fight. He merely wanted to wait out of this conflict. The two points are too weak on their own to pose any challenge to Cao troops. And they could not sup-port each other in any way.

Tao Qian

he did not know him-self, and did not know Cao Cao. He lost every battle against him.Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG

Liu Bei

former ally, now an opponentCourtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) Therefore, Cao Cao charged Cao

Ren to siege Xiang-ben cheng. He personally led main troop to break up the combine force of Cao Bao, Kong Rong and Liu Bei. As predicted, Tao Qian would rather stay behind the wall than to attempt any rescues. After breaking up the combine force, Cao Cao turned around and joined with Cao Ren to attack Xiang-ben cheng. Defender's morale was low when they heard that Tao Qian did not rescue the combine force that was destroyed by invading force. Within three days, the city was breached and Cao Cao issued the most terrible massacre. There was not a living creature within the city. The news had frightened Tao Qian so much that he fled to nearby Yang Province's Dan-yang cheng [city].

Though Cao Cao used the pretext of avenging family death, his real pur-pose is to acquire Xu Province. Massa-cre was viewed as a mean to break any pro-Tao Qian feeling that people may harbor.

Of all he had met in this campaign, he was most surprised at Liu Bei's troops. They were small in number but were very resilient. They did not bow to pressure from Cao's force. Since then, Cao Cao had paid much attention to Liu Xuan-de (Liu Bei's full name).

Mutiny within Yen Province

Just when Cao Cao readied to an-nihilate Tao Qian in one final assault, he received shocking news that Zhang Mao, the Grand Administrator of Chen-liu [City], Chen Gong, his trusted advisor stationed at Dong-jun [City], and Lu Bu, who escaped from Chang-an, have conspired against him. All but three commanderies have ral-lied to their causes. Cao Cao quickly called for a conference to discuss this issue. He declared,

“If Yen Province is lost, then we have no place to return. Even if we take over Xu Prov-ince, we would meet with strong resistance. Hence, we must think of something quick.”

At that time, Liu Bei was about to negotiate a cease-fire between Tao Qian and Cao Cao.

Advisor Guo Jia suggested,

“Let’s agreed to this negotia-tion for now. Our first priority is to return to Yen Province as soon as possible to deal with Zhang Mao, as top priority.”

Cao Cao agreed and commanded both Guo Jia and Cao Ren to start negotiated terms for cease-fire. He then led the main force to rush back to Yen Province to deal with rebellion.

Cao Cao was caught complete sur-prised of this rebellion especially, from Zhang Mao and Chen Gong. Zhang Mao had known Cao Cao since they were kids. They have joined the Alliance to fight against Dong Zhuo. And he even let Cao Cao commanded his main force. However, Cao Cao political advancement had been steady whereas Zhang Mao career was pretty much stagnating as the Grand Admin-istrator of Chen-liu. He became resent-ful. And there was that incident occurred at the Alliance where Zhang Mao and Yuan Shao have a disagree-ment. Yuan Shao urged Cao Cao to get rid of Zhang Mao. Cao Cao refused and Zhang Mao was grateful. Howev-er, it also planted a seed of doubt of wondering if Cao Cao would kill him for political gain.

Chen Gong admired Cao Cao very much and was willing to work for him. Yet, Chen Gong was a man of high standard. There were two incidents that Chen Gong began to doubt Cao

Cao as the right man to work for. First, there was a retired minister who was pro-Yuan Shu. He spoke out against Cao Cao when the later fought Yuan Shu. Cao Cao had the man executed for disrupting troop morale. However, the widow was known for her beauty. Cao Cao was a lecherous man and had her as a mistress. This caused others to view the execution to be motivated more than just disrupting troop mo-rale. Then when Cao Cao decided to attack Tao Qian, Chen Gong begged him not to for he was a friend of Tao Qian. But Cao Cao did not listen and forced Chen Gong to remain behind. Then the news of massacre furthered split between Chen Gong and Cao Cao.

Lu Bu arrived just as Cao Cao left for Xu Province. After escaped from Chang-an, he had served under Yuan Shu and then Yuan Shao. Despite his efforts, neither leader trusted him enough to give him sufficient sup-ports. Lu Bu left them and sought his fortune at Yen Province. He met up with Zhang Mao. There was a good chemistry between them. Then Chen Gong came and joined them. Together, they persuaded others to their cause. The news of Cao atrocities also bore significant influence to localities to join Zhang Mao and Chen Gong.

Weight of a Thousand Hangs by a Thread of Hair

Zhen-cheng under Xun Yu, Pu-yang under Xiahou Dun, Fan-cheng under Lei Yun, and Dong-a [City] un-der Z?o Zhi were still pro-Cao Cao. Chen Gong planned to eliminate these four before Cao Cao returned. On the eve of rebellion, Zhang Mao sent rep-resentative to request Xun Yu to sup-ply Lu Bu. While everyone was confused with such requests, Xun Yu was able to guess the intention behind it. He quickly mobilized troops to strength the defense and asked Pu-

Lu Bu

the Wolf of Central Plain, set his eyes on Yen ProvinceCourtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG

Zhang Mao

the big brother who could not stand the fact that Cao Cao was ahead of him.Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) yang for assistance. Xiahou Dun led loyal troops to travel at night to Zhen-cheng. Together, they were able to put down several divisions that were about to answer Zhang Mao's call. Zhen-cheng situation was stabilized.

Then the news of the arrival of Guo Gong, Inspector of Yu Province who had led main force of several tens of thousands troops toward Zhen-cheng, had caught them by surprise. Everyone feared for the worse. Upon arrival, Guo Gong requested for one-to-one parley with Xun Yu. Xiahou Dun objected such parley because Xun Yu was too crucial to go into un-known. Xun Yu replied that he be-lieved that there was no communication between Guo Gong and Zhang Mao. Guo Gong arrived too soon for a coordinate attack. It's better to persuade Guo Gong to remain neu-tral else if he joined Lu Bu, they would be hard-press to defend.

Xun Yu met Guo Gong on one on one parley. There was no fear on Xun Yu, Guo Gong thought that Zhen-cheng was well defended. He then returned back to Yu Province.

Situation at Zhen-cheng had been stabilized. From the capture troops, Xun Yu learned that Chen Gong would personally led troops to attack Dong-a [City] and send an agent to persuade Fan-cheng to mutiny. Cheng Yu volunteered to go help defend Fan-cheng. v, who was the commander of Fan-cheng, had learned that his family has been held hostage by Lu Bu. Cheng Yu arrived and analyzed cur-rent situation to worrisome Lei Yun.

“Rumor has it that Lu Bu has

captured your mother, wife and children. Your filial duty may force you to do some-thing regretful. Please calm down. Nowadays the world is in chaos. Many able lords ap-peared. Among them, there will be one who is qualified to pacify the world. Therefore, an intelligent man must con-sider carefully and select the correct lord to follow. For one's fate would be depended on the fortune of his lord.

Chen Gong rebelled and sup-ported Lu Bu. Many local gov-ernment answered his call. This might seemed to be the right thing to do. On contrary, if sir only observed carefully, he would know what kind of leader Lu Bu is. He is proud, conceited, and unable to en-dear himself with his follow-ers. He is stubborn and doesn't know how to respect gentle-men. He is simply a buffoon. If one does not understand politic, even if he has massive troops, he would not be able to accomplish anything. General Cao is famous for his intelli-gence, bravery, and resource-fulness. He is surely ordained by Heaven! General, if you would only defend Fan-cheng, and I Dong-a, together, our efforts would be as great as ancient Tian Dan's Herculean effort of restored Qi State. If you were to submit to the agent of Chen Gong and dis-card loyalty to embrace evil,

one day would be the death of your entire clan. General, please consider it carefully.“

After listen to Cheng Yu's analy-sis, Lei Z?o maintained his loyalty and executed the agent of Chen Gong. Cheng Yu sent cavalry to destroy available bridges to Fan-cheng and Dong-a in order to delay Chen Gong's advancement. By the time Cheng Yu arrived to Dong-a, Zhao Zho was al-ready mobilize entire city to help strengthen and to store supplies to withstand the siege.

Zhen-cheng, Fan-cheng and Dong-a have been successfully de-fended, this gave Cao Cao bases to reverse the situation. An in this crisis, Cheng Yu had accomplished the most. Cao Cao appreciated his efforts and recommended the government to ap-point Cheng Yu to the position of the Pacify Minister of Eastern Region.

While situation at Zhen-cheng was crucial, Xiahou Dun traveled lightly to assist Xun Yu. When he returned, he found that Lu Bu had approached Pu-yang rapidly. Xiahou Dun did not have sufficient supplies nor men power to engage the enemy. Pu-yang was lost. And while retreated, part of troops rebelled and held Xiahou Dun hostage. The entire army had nearly collapsed. Lieutenant General Han Hao behaved calmly, he able to deduct that rene-gades were interested in money and not necessary wanted to harm Xiahou Dun. So he soothed remaining troops and maintained harsh stance against renegades. Finally they gave in and surrender, Xiahou Dun was rescued in

Cheng Yu

the perfect advisor of Cao CaoCourtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG

“... if sir only ob-served carefully, he would know what kind of leader Lu Bu is ... ”

Cheng Yu

...continue on page 36


Late Han Dynasty BureaucracyMuch of government structure in

the Han Dynasty was inherited from the Qin Dynasty. The system of gov-ernment was improved upon by suc-ceeding dynasties till the familiar concept, to most Westerners, was achieved in the Tang & the Sung Dy-nasty. In the Han Dynasty, the transi-tion of ministers from being the emperor's assistants to the officers of the empire was still apparent. Certain position within the Nine Ministries still sounded like majordomo. There are two levels of government, the cen-tral who decided the fate of the nation and the local who governed the liveli-

hood of everyone in the jurisdiction. Government officials received monthly salary in both shih (bushel) of grains and coins even though their salary grades still listed in terms of shih. Monetary wise, this translated 1 bushel of grains into 70-80 coins in Former Han and 100 coins in Later Han.

The highest positions in the Late Han central government were the Grand Commandant (Tai-wei), the Minister over the Masses (Si-tu), and the Minister of Works (Si-kong). Col-lectively, they were referred to as the Three Excellencies (San Kung). They

ranked First Class at 10,000 shih.

The Grand Comman-dant took charge of military af-fair. Be-side in charge of military af-fair, he is also super-vised offi-cialdoms of the Grand Master of Ceremo-nies, the Superin-tendent of the Impe-rial House-hold, and the Com-mandant of the Guard.

The Minister over the Masses han-dled domestic affair. He prepared an-nual budget and presided over Court Conference when the Emperor is un-able to attend. He oversaw official-doms of the Grand Coachman, the Commandant of Justice, and the Grand Herald.

The Minister of Works assisted the Minister over the Masses. He reviewed officialdoms of the Director of the Imperial Clan, the Grand Minister of Agriculture, and the Privy Treasurer.

The Three Excellencies jointly in-spected all aspect of local government. Their reports were the basis for official promotion and demotion. The throne depended their advises. Together, they share the censorial and advisory of officialdom. The Three Excellencies can propose policy procedure jointly or singly on their own initiatives.

Below The Three Excellencies are the Nine Ministers (Chiu-q'ing) who headed various ministries. They are the Grand Master of Ceremonies (Tai-chang), the Superintendent of the Im-perial Household (Guang-lu-xun), the Commandant of the Guard (Wei-wei), the Grand Coachman (Tai-pu), the Commandant of Justice (Yan-wei), the Grand Herald (Da-hong-liu), the Di-rector of the Imperial Clan (Zong-zheng), the Grand Minister of Agricul-ture (Da-si-nong), and the Privy Trea-surer (Shao-fu). They ranked Second Class at Fully 2,000 shih.

The Grand Master of Ceremonies was in charge of state rituals. He an-nounced the appropriate protocol in advance, and assisted the emperor dur-ing the ceremonies. His office in-spected imperial graves once a month. He has department that recorded ob-servatory, divination, portents and auspicious omens. The Grand Master of Ceremonies selected auspicious date for a given task.

Ranking Salary Grade Monthly Income

First Class 10,000 shih 350 bushels of grains & 33,950 coins

Second Class Fully 2,000 shih180 bushels of grains & 16,950 coins

Third Class 2,000 shih120 bushels of grains & 10,950 coins

Fourth Class Equivalent to 2,000 shih 100 bushels of grains & 8,950 coins

Fifth Class 1,000 shih90 bushels of grains & 7,950 coins

Sixth Class Equivalent to 1,000 shih80 bushels of grains &6,950 coins

Seventh Class 600 shih 70 bushels of grains & 5,950 coins

Eight Class Equivalent to 600 shih60 bushels of grains & 4,950 coins

Nine Class 400 shih50 bushels of grains & 3,950 coins

Tenth Class Equivalent to 400 shih 45 bushels of grains &3,450 coins

Eleven Class 300 shih40 bushels of grains &2,950 coins

Twelve Class Equivalent to 300 shih37 bushels of grains &2,650 coins

Table 1: Late Han Government Classification of Position

Official Position


Late Han Dynasty BureaucracyThe Superintendent of the Impe-

rial Household was in charge of em-peror's protection within the public parts of the palace compounds and for protecting the emperor on his excur-sions from the palace. He has officials who served the emperor with advice and criticism, and of the Imperial In-ternuncios. Imperial Internuncios as-sisted at imperial ceremonies, condoled on behalf of the emperor at the death of medium-level officials, and did various kinds of errands for the government, in the capital, in the prov-inces, and even beyond the borders of the empire.

The Commandant of the Guard oversaw entire palace security. Con-scripts manned the entrances to the palace compounds and stationed guardhouses by palace walls. They patrolled along the walls, the covered passageways, and palace lanes. Their tour of duty is 1 year. At the end, they attended feast presented by the em-peror before rotated to another area.

The Grand Coachman was in charge all things related to horses. He had to provided horses for the army, horses for the imperial stables, and horses for various imperial carriages.

There were 36 pastures throughout northern China where horses were raised and trained.

The Commandant of Justice was the interpreter of the laws. He sat on dubious trials conducted in Imperial Prison, which is but a part of his min-istry. His ministry sent representatives to assist local administrators on certain trials. The Commandant of Justice also maintained the standards of measure-ment.

The Grand Herald handled foreign affair. He represented the government when receiving distant dignitaries and

1st Class

2nd Class

3rd Class

4th Class

5th Class

6th Class

7th Class

8th Class

9th Class

10th Class

11th Class

12th Class

EmperorThree Excellencies

Nine Ministers General-in-Chief / Duke

Provincial ShepherdGrand Administrator

Gentlemen-of-the-Palace

Gentlemen-in-Attendants

Gentlemen-of-the-Household

General of the Gentlemen...Colonel of the City Gate

Marquis

Master of Writing Bearer of Gilded Mace

Provincial Inspector

Prefect of large population

Prefect from smaller population

Major

Three Grand

Ranking of Officials in the Late Han Dynasty


Late Han Dynasty Bureaucracynobility. When kings passed away, he represented the government by memo-rialized the posthumous names of kings and full marquises. And he also advised the right of succession to king-doms and commanderies. The Grand Herald negotiated treaties and con-ferred titles to barbarian princes who pay visit to the capital. In imperial ceremonies, while the Grand Master of Ceremonies was responsible for the proper performance of the ritual and for guiding the emperor through its intricacies, the Grand Herald assisted various officers, nobles, and foreigners of their appropriate places and roles.

The Director of the Imperial Clan kept track of imperial lineage and rela-tives. These records were updated

once a year at the New Year. New members were added and status of king-doms and commanderies were reviewed. And if any imperial relatives have found guilty, the Director of the Imperial Clan has to present the case to the em-peror who would decide ap-propriate punishment.

The Grand Minister of Agriculture kept track of national treasury. Though the collection and the trans-portation of taxes in form of goods or money resided on the shoulder of local gov-ernment, the Grand Minis-ter of Agriculture took over once these have been stored and properly recorded. From his storehouses, he fed the civil services and the army. He maintained price stabilization by regulated the flow from his storehous-es. It could be said that the Minister Over the Masses drew the budget, and the

Grand Minister of Agriculture paid the bill.

And the Privy Treasurer is palace steward. He is the only minister who served the emperor. However, he was not a eunuch despite majority of his staff were. He oversaw those who worked in palaces and performed bu-reaucratic duties for the emperor. The Privy Treasurer was in charge of cer-tain intimate advisers and attendants of the emperor. In addition, he was re-sponsible for the emperor and his fam-ily's well beings and comfort. In Former Han, Privy Treasurer did con-trol the purse string of the emperor. But by Late Han, it was declared that national treasury was emperor's trea-sury that responsibility went to the Grand Minister of Agriculture. How-ever, the Grand Minister of Agricul-ture often approved the Privy Treasurer's requisition.

The Three Excellencies and the Nine Ministers often walked with Em-peror (huang-di) to decide on Late Han Dynasty's national policy. Each Excel-lency and Ministry was allowed to have a company (100) of guardsmen to protect them. They formed the core central government, in theory.

However, since the birth of dynas-ty, the actual power gradually fell onto the Master of Writing (Shang-shu). Originally, the Master of Writing was Emperor's personal secretary and un-der the Privy Treasurer Ministry. He was the one who write down imperial edicts, the Master of Writing was able to influence the court by choice of words appeared next to imperial seal. Toward the twilight of Late Han dy-nasty, Three Excellencies were noth-ing more than figureheads similar to the emperor. For instance, Wang Yun, who plotted the assassination of Dong Zhuo, had held both positions of the Minister over the Masses and the Head

Master of Writing (Shang-shu-ling) so that he could enforce domestic poli-cies.

There were numerous attempts to install position above the Three Excel-lencies with actual power. For exam-ple, once Dong Zhuo came to power, he promoted himself to the Minister of Kingdom (Xiang-guo), which was above the Three Excellencies. Later, after he burned down Luo-yang, Dong Zhuo awarded himself with additional position of the Grand Commander (Tai-shuai) to hold on to military pow-er. When Cao Cao took over daily administration of central government, he renamed the Minister Over the Masses (Si-tu) to the Chancellor (Cheng-xiang) and the Minister of Works (si-kong) became the Grandee Secretary (Yu-shi-dai-fu). He then be-came Chancellor as a move to dispel impotence of three grand official posi-tions.

The Three Kingdoms EraAfter a period of adjusted and re-

defined under Dong Zhuo and Cao Cao administration, a new high official appeared during three kingdoms peri-od. Five high officials of central gov-ernment system of the Wei Kingdom were the Chancellor (cheng-xiang or xiang-guo ), the Grand Tutor (tai-fu), the Grand Protector (tai-bao), the Grand Minister of War (tai-si-ma), and the General-in-Chief (dai-jiang-jun). These officials replaced the Three Ex-cellencies though not all were created within same period of time. Later on, both the Grand Minister of War and the General-in-Chief were removed from political decision-making and concentrated strictly on military af-fairs.

With the formation of the Wei Kingdom, the Grand Commandant, the Minister Over the Masses, and

Nine Ministers

Typical Minister Courtesy of Koei´s Sangokushi Engi Paper & Pencil Rolegame


Late Han Dynasty BureaucracyMinister of Works were briefly re-vived during the Wei Emperor Ming era (226 A.D. to 239 A.D.) to handle domestic affairs. After his death, the Grand Commandant Si-ma Yi and the General-in-Chief Cao Shuang proceed to place themselves above the Three Excellencies during their infighting. After a successful coup to overthrow Cao Shuang in 249 A.D., Si-ma Yi became the Grand Tutor. He gained the control of the imperial court. After his death, his eldest son, Si-ma Shuai, became the General-in-Chief when he forced the Wei emperor to abdicate. His younger brother, Si-ma Zhao, rose to the General-in-Chief and then to the Chancellor under the Jin Dynasty. He was even more a power monger at controlling the imperial court.

When the Shu Kingdom came into existence, there was only the Minister over the Masses which Xu Jing had held. It was obvious that they have abandoned the Three Excellencies po-sitions since no one else had occupied other two. Even Zhu-ge Liang had only occupied the Chancellor position from 221 A.D. to 234 A.D. He con-trolled much of the Shu political oper-ation when he was not busy waging war against the Wei Kingdom. Jiang Wei, Zhu-ge Liang's successor, had held the General-in-Chief position and later became the Commander-in-Chief when the Sleeping Dragon passed away. Unfortunately, by then, Shu court politic had been in the eunuch, Huang Hao, control.

The Wu Kingdom initially did not have the Three Excellencies positions. Instead, three successive Chancellors handled the Wu politics. After Sun Quan's death, Zhu-ge Ge, son of Zhu-ge Jing, took control of the Wu court as Grandee because Sun Liang, the heir, was still young. Later, Sun Jun, blood relative of the founder, plotted a successful coup against Zhu-ge Ge and

became the Chancellor. After him, his cousin, Sun Lin, became the General-in-Chief. He forced Sun Liang to ab-dict his position in imitation of Si-ma Shuai and placed Sun Xiu on the throne. Yet, when he elevated to the Chancellor, Sun Xiu have him killed. Since then, there was no dominated person in control of the Wu court. And the power fell rightfully back to the Chancellor.

Since then, every successive dy-nasty had the Chancellor, the Grandee, the General-in-Chief, and the Com-mander-in-Chief as highest imperial officials. They replaced traditional role of the Grand Commandant, the Minster Over the Masses, and the Min-ister of Works of bygone era.

Core Military Officials

There were several military type personnel that worked closely with the central government and the emperor. The most visible position is Bearer of the Gilded Mace (chih-chin wu). Though not part of Nine Ministers, he was considered to be an element of Central Government. He is the only one who allowed to station large num-ber of troops around the capital. No other army was allowed to approach the capital. His responsibility included to upheld law and order within the capital except the palace precincts. In late Late Han period when Yuan Shao led the massacre of eunuchs, Ding Yuan was Bearer of the Gilded Mace. He was the reason that Dong Zhuo was unable to march his troops into Luo-yang. At that time, Dong Zhuo had only three thousands troops from Xi-liang. He bribed Lu Bu, adopted son of Ding Yuan, to assassinate his foster father. In Romance of Three King-doms novel, it stated that Dong Zhuo wanted Lu Bu. In reality, Dong Zhuo desired those troops under Bearer of

the Gilded Mace.

Next line of defense of emperor's safety is Commandant of the Guard (Wei-wei), who was part of the Nine Ministers as mentioned above. His re-sponsibility included security within palace and has troops to patrol the surrounding. In late Late Han period, Ma Teng, an ally of Cao Cao, held the position of Commandant of the Guard. In Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Ma Teng's entire family was executed for his involvement in attempt to over-throw Cao Cao; Ma Chao, son of Ma Teng, was at Xi-liang and raised an army against Cao Cao. But in reality, Ma Chao opposed Cao Cao expansion into Xi-liang. He raised troops as re-bellion and Ma Teng was killed be-cause of it.

Superintendent of the Imperial Household, who was also part of the Nine Ministers, was personally re-sponsible for emperor's safety. He had smallest number of troops when com-pared to Bearer of the Gilded Mace and Commandant of the Guard. There were five units under his control that were collectively noted as Gentleman Official (lang-guan). Commander of each division was known as General of Gentleman (zhong-lang jiang). The candidates were nominated by other ministers, governors, and ministers. Those fifty and over joined Gentle-men-of-the-Household for All Purpose (wu-guan zhong-lang). Those less than fifty years old joined either Gentle-men-of-the-Household of the Left (zuo-zhong lang) or Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the Right (you-zhong lang). These units acted as pro-bation for the candidates. They served as bodyguards within the palace com-pounds, especially at inner gates and doors. When emperor was outside of palace, they protected his chariot. First to break this tradition was Cao Pi, second son of Cao Cao, who received

Central Gentleman

General


Late Han Dynasty Bureaucracyboth titles of Gentlemen-of-the-Household for All Purpose and Vice Chancellor in 221 A.D. before he was fifty years old. Other two Gentlemen units were strictly warriors. One unit was the Gentlemen Rapid as Tigers (gu-bi lang). They were selected among the best of palace guards and capital soldiers. They were very good at fighting. Yuan Shu was the General of the Gentlemen-of-the-Household Rapid as Tigers. Other unit was Gen-tleman of the Feathered Forest (yu-lin lang). They were the cavalry unit. They were exclusive selected from either Liang-zhou or Gong-zhou in western part of China. Dong Zhuo, the Tiger of Liang-zhou, early position was Yu-lin-zhong-lang-jiang.

During Crisis of Yellow Turbans, Gentlemen Corps received more re-sponsibilities. Then, Choa-ting (the imperial court) sent Gentleman-of-the-Household of the Left, Huang Fu-song, and Gentleman-of-the-House-hold of the Right, Zhu Juan, to pacify Yellow Turbans. Since then, Gentle-men Corps have changed from emper-or's personal bodyguards to high rank military officers. Originally, only gen-eral were allowed to lead troops for such mission. During Han dynasty and even in modern days, generalship was a very prestigious status. And one must be appointed to generalship be-fore taking troops for such mission. Only because of Yellow Turbans crisis that Gentlemen Corps were allowed to lead troops. After their successful mis-sion, Huang Fu-song became General of Chariot & Cavalry of the Left (zuo-ju-qi-jiang-jun) and Zhu Juan became General of Chariot & Cavalry of the Right (you-ju-qi-jiang-jun).

To further contain the spread of Yellow Turbans, Choa-ting (government) had set up four addi-tional positions for Gentlemen Offi-cers. They were the East (dong), the

West (xi), The South (nan), and the North (bei). They were commonly known together as General Gentle-men-of-the-Household of the Four Corners (si-zhong lang-jiang). Lu Zhi was General Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the North (bei-zhong-lang-jiang) whose mission was to bring down Zhang Jiao, the instigator of Yellow Turbans. Dong Zhuo had the title of General Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the East (dong-zhong-lang-jiang) when he was on a military operation. The General Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the Four Corners was like general but without the status nor prestige of generalship. Under Cao Cao administration, the role of General Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the Four Corners was furthered clarified and became part of central government in the Wei and the Jin dynasties. Cao Cao had promoted Cheng Yu to Gen-eral Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the East (dong-zhong-lang-jiang). He was instructed to protect and prevent any aggression of Liu Bei from Xu-zhou. Later, Cao Cao appointed his fourth son, Cao Zhang, to General Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the North (bei-zhong-lang-jiang) who traveled northward and conquered Wuhuan barbarians. When Guan Yu surrounded Cao Ren, who was Gen-eral who Pacify the South (zheng-nan-jiang-jun), Cao Cao commissioned his third son, Cao Zhi, as General Gentle-men-of-the-Household of the South (nan-zhong-lang-jiang), for rescue op-eration. The Gentlemen General-of-the-Household of the Four Corners (si-zhong-lang-jiang) was responsible for each directional military operation. In military ranking, they were a step below general.

Like generals, there were some creative titles bestow to General Gen-tlemen-of-the-Household (zhong-lang-jiang). This practice was espe-

cially popular among the pre-Wu and the pre-Shu kingdoms. For Sun Ce and Sun Quan, they received the title of General Who Captures (tao-lu-jiang-jun). If they were to promote their followers to generalship, then they would be of equal ranking. Therefore, Zhou Yu was known as General Gen-tleman-of-the-Household Who Causes Awe (jian-wei-zhong-lang-jiang) and Cheng Pu was known as General Gen-tleman-of-the-Household Who Sway Bandits (dang-kou-zhong-lang-jiang) prior the Battle of Chi-bi. Once the battle was won and in controlled Jing-zhou, Sun Quan promoted himself to Acting General of Chariot & Cavalry (dai-li-ju-qi jiang-jun), Zhou Yu pro-moted to Lieutenant General (pian ji-ang) and Cheng Pu became Major General (bi jiang), of which latter two were on bottom rank of generalship. The situation was similar if not worse for Liu Bei who received the title of General of Left Army and Lord of Yicheng. He, too, had to bestow exotic General Gentlemen-of-the-Household (zhong-lang-jiang) titles to his follow-ers. Zhu-ge Liang was once known as General Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the Military Strategist (Jun-shi zhong-lang jiang).

Local GovernmentThere were 13 provinces (zhou)

that composed of Late Han Dynasty. Each province was further broken down into kingdoms, commanderies (jun) and prefectures (xian). Inspectors (zhou-shi) were appointed by the Grandee Secretary. Their function is to report performances of Grand Admin-istrators within a given province. Kingdoms were composed of few commanderies. Kings (wang) were relatives of imperial family. They may advise Grand Administrators within their kingdoms on certain issues, but have little or no power themselves.

Local Officials


Late Han Dynasty BureaucracyInstead, Kings often received a gov-ernment title, Grand Administrator, and a military position, a generalship, as means to impose his will. Grand Administrator (jun-tai-shou) governed commandery. He had full controls of civilian and military affairs, including civil and criminal laws. Prefect (xian-ling) administered prefectures of more than 10,000 households while Chief (chang) governed prefectures with less than 10,000 households. Grand Ad-ministrators and Perfects have direct control over their jurisdiction. Inspec-tors only have advisory roles. These positions were appointed by respective Three Excellencies with recommenda-tions from Nine Ministers.

Since 188 A.D., Inspector (zhou-shi) was renamed as Shepherd (zhou-mu) based from Liu Yan's recommen-dation. The newly created position would have full controls of civil and military affair at provincial level. Liu Yan believed that it would allow Shep-herd to better arm and fight against bandits and rebels. It was a major step to lessen the control that Core Govern-ment had over Local Government. Since then both Inspector and Shep-herd were used interchangeable in de-scribing provincial governor's title. But Shepherd has a higher rank, Third Class (2,000 shih), than Inspector, Seventh Class (600 shih). For exam-ple, Kong Rong was originally Inspec-tor of Xu Province. After a successful lobby attempt, he became Shepherd of Xu Province and General Who Paci-fied the East (an-dong jiang-jun), in addition to become Marquise of Li-yang, a noble. Liu Biao was originally Inspector of Jing Province. He offered tributes to Li Jue and Guo Si, and became Shepherd of Jing-zhou and General Who Shook the South (zhen-nan jiang-jun). He also received a title of nobility, Marquise of Cheng-wu. There were numerous records of In-

spector elevated to Shepherd and re-ceived both a generalship and title of nobility. A notable exception was when Lu Bu seized Xu Province from Liu Bei, he declared to be Inspector. When he petitioned the Han govern-ment to elevate his position to Shep-herd, Cao Cao denied Lu Bu's claim.

Entering Civil ServiceThe system of entering civil ser-

vice in Late Han Dynasty is the fore-runner of famous Chinese civil examination system. Though it was open to all free men, merchant class was excluded. It was possible that cer-tain exceptions were made due to in-tense lobby. The civil service recruitment system was more of a 7-part recommendation and a 3-part ex-amination.

The highest honor was to receive imperial summon from either the em-peror or recommendation from high officials. The honoree was usually pre-viously worked in government and had retired or was famous for his knowl-

edge of certain field. Furthermore, the carriage that was sent for the honoree also hinted the degree of importance. Normally, the Official Carriage (kung-chu) was sent to bring the person to the capital. The Comfortable Carriage (an-chu) was for person who the ruler deemed wroth extra courtesy. The Comfortable Carriage with Wheels Wrapped in Rushes (an-chu p'u lun) reserved for person of highest honor. However, the imperial summon did not guarantee an employment. If the candidate did not perceive to live up to imperial expectation, he would send away. It was possible to refuse the imperial summon, though it was rarely done.

Nepotism was another avenue of entering civil service, as it was the perk of high-ranking officials. Nepo-tism or the jen privilege was reserved for officers of ranking Third Class (2,000 shih) or higher. At the end of three years probation, these ministers could recommend a close relative into the service. These candidates are then

Typical scholar exam cell

Courtesy of Patricia Lin @

http://www.csupomona.edu/

~plin/ls201/confucian3.html


Late Han Dynasty Bureaucracyplace into the Gentlemen Officials (lang-guan) as their probation period. And based on their performance there, they may then assign to a ministry and become fully part of central govern-ment. Early on, this policy had been attacked numerous times as they cause for corruption because it did not prop-erly reflect the merit of individual can-didates. Jen privilege had been publicly revoked and then quietly rein-stated as the back door.

Recommendatory System was second most common way for one to enter civil service. The most com-monly known is the induction of Fil-ially Pious and Incorrupt (hsiao-lien). Each kingdom and each commandery administrator can recommend two people as Filially Pious and Incorrupt every year. Though this may also open to corruption, there were 2 hurdles for potentials to go pass. First, upon ar-rived to the capital, escorted by an officer from commandery administra-tor or king, the Filially Pious and In-corrupt had to take a written examination oversaw by the Minister of Writings. Candidates were tested for their knowledge of Five Classics and the ability to draft a document. Those who passed the examination have to go through probation period as member of Gentlemen Officials (lang-guan). This could be as short as 3 years to, indefinite. Commandery adminis-trator and kingdom minister would be dismissed if their recommendation was less than what he claimed to be.

Academy was another popular av-enue for one to enter civil service. In Former Han, many topics were taught. But Late Han, only 5 topics: Book of

Changes, Book of Documents, Book of Odes, Book of Rites, and the Spring and Autumn Annals with the Kung-yang Commentary were taught. Throughout Han Dynasty, Academy had its up and downs. At lowest point, buildings were deteriorated; herd ani-mals grazed in the gardens; exotic trees were chopped down as firewood. At its prime, 112,000 convicts built 240 buildings and 1850 rooms. Sons of officials down to Seventh Class (600 shih) ranks attended the Acade-my. By middle of the second century, there were more than 30,000 students studied there. Annually, there were three levels of difficult examination that student could decide to take. Only top 40 students, who passed the high-est level of examination, could become Gentlemen-of-the-Palace. Only top 20 students, who passed the middle level of examination, could become mem-bers of the Suite of the Heir-apparent. Both were probationary positions in the capital. Only top 40 students, who passed the lowest level of examina-tion, could become Literary Scholars on Ancient Matters. These were proba-tionary offices for commanderies and kingdoms.

Toward twilight of Late Han Peri-od, government was often resorted to the sale of offices. Positions of Three Excellencies were worth from 20,000 to 30,000 coins. Positions of Nine Ministries were worth from 10,000 to 15,000 coins. Cao Song, father of Cao Cao, had spent a million chien (coins) for the Office of Grand Commandant.

NobilityThe oldest officially recognized

Chinese dynasty is the Shang. When Zhou finally overthrew it, Clan Chief Ji Fa declared himself as King (wang) Wu and honored his father as King Wen. Zhou King rewarded his loyal subjects and allied tribal leaders with title of nobility. They ranged from Baron (nan-jue), Viscount (zi-jue), Count (bo-jue), Marquise (hou-jue) and Duke (gong-jue). At the end of Zhou Dynasty, rival nobles began to fight among them. During the Warring State era, those with enough military strength have declared themselves as king. Previously, the honorific title was Gentleman (jun) and it was used up to the end of Spring and Autumn era.

Soon after China was reunited un-der Qin dynasty, a new title, Emperor (huang-di, huang or di), was created to denote status above King. First Em-peror of Qin (qin-shi huang-di) took away all nobility status to prevent any future infighting like that of Warring States. However, when the word of his death had gotten out, people began to rebel and revived old traditions. Among those contenders were Xiang Yu and Liu Bang. Xiang Yu came from old noble family of Chu. He re-warded allies and followers with titles of nobility. Xiang Yu was content to be the Overlord of Western Chu and let other nobles to squabble remaining China among them.

Liu Bang came from commoner's background. Like Xiang Yu, he ini-tially gave out nobility to allies and loyal subject in his struggle for su-

Nobility Title

Emperor aka Huang-Di



Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tze

In early days of the Three King-doms, none was every victorious as Sun Jian. Unfortunately, in the Ro-mance of the Three Kingdoms, his position was relegated as footnote and his achievement was credited to some-one else. Unlike all other contenders, Sun Jian rose from being a commoner to achieve nobility. And his sons car-ried it even further to become the lon-gest reigned Wu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period. Through this article, hopefully, reader would find Sun Jian an interesting character. Be-low is the translation of Sun Jian from San-gu-zhi, The Ambitions of Three Kingdoms (ATK), the official histori-cal records. And see how he differed from the more popular novel, Ro-mance of the Three Kingdoms (RTK).

Before the Yellow TurbansSun Jian , his given name is Wen-

tai (Towering Scholar), born in 156 AD in Wu Commandery, Fu-chun Pre-fecture (in modern day Jiangsu prov-ince, Zhejiang Fu-chun Prefecture). He was the descendant of the fame

military strategist, Sun-tse of the Spring & Autumn era. In his teen, Sun Jian was a minor prefecture govern-ment official. At age seventeen, he traveled with his father to Qian-tang by boat. Along the way, his boat had stopped fear when the river pirate, Hu Yu, and gangs were divided loots on land after a robbery. Boat captain feared to move forward.

Sun Jian told his father,

“These river pirates can be de-feated. Please grant me per-mission to kill them.”

His father replied,

“It is none of your business.”

Nonetheless, Sun Jian took upon himself with blade in hand, to fight with river pirates. He point to left and to right as if he was coordinate large-scale operation to encircle those pi-rates. His opponents thought that the government troops were com-ing after them. They abandoned their loots and dispersed. Sun Jian chased after one and cut off his head. His fa-ther was shocked and Sun Jian be-came famous. Government pro-moted Sun Jian to Acting Comman-dant.

In the First Year of Joyous Peace (172 AD), malicious bandit, X? Chang, and his son rebelled at H?i-ji. Self styled as Emperor Morning Sun, he raised more than

ten thousand followers. Sun Jian, as a major of a prefecture armed force, raised a thousand courageous warriors. Worked in conjunction with other pre-fecture forces, he defeated X? Chang, and his son, destroyed the rebellion. For his effort, Sun Jian was promoted. Within few years and several prefec-tures later, he became Assistant to Pre-fecture Prefect.

Sun Ce was born in 175 AD and Sun Quan was born in 182 AD.

During the Yellow TurbansIn the First Year of Central Peace

(184 AD), Yellow Turban leader, Zhang Jiao began the rebellion at Wei Commandery. He claimed to be in-structed by the spirits who sent 8 heav-enly emissaries to earth to enlighten Heaven Below. Instead, he secretly organized his cohorts and proclaimed to be Yellow Heaven Peaceful Pacifi-

Sun Jian

whose names meansThe Foundation for

House of Sun

Sun Jian’s Birthplace

Sun JianCourtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dy-nasty CCG


Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tzecation. On March 1st, rebellion simul-taneously began in 36 locations. They burned down commandery and prefec-ture government headquarters and killed officials.

Han Emperor Ling sent General of Chariot & Cavalry Huang Fu-song and Gentleman-of-the-Household Zhu Juan to lead armed forces against Yel-low Turban bandits. Zhu Juan peti-tioned to request for Sun Jian to accompany him as Assisting Army Major. His followers at Xia Pi were willing to follow him into battle against Yellow Turbans. Furthermore, he raised additional troops from Xing Shang, Huai Sh?i, and Si Sh?i area. Sun Jian had over a thousand strong when he joined up with Zhu Juan. Everywhere he went, Sun Jian was ever victorious and driven off Yellow Turbans from N? Nan Commandery and Q?ng Zhou Commandery. They fled to W?n City and planned to make their stand there. Sun Jian was the first to climb over the wall. His troops fol-lowed like hordes of ants. Yellow Tur-bans were destroyed. Zhu Juan reported Sun Jian's contribution to Choa-ting (the imperial court). Sun Jian had been promoted to District Major.

Besides Yellow Turbans Rebel-lions, there were other banditries that needed to be put down. Bian Zhang and Han Sui were causing chaos in Liang Zhou. General Gentleman-of-the-Household, Dong Zhuo, had failed in his effort to bring those two to jus-tice. In the Third Year of Central Peace (187 AD), Choa-ting promoted Minis-ter of Work, Zhang Wen, to General of Chariot & Cavalry and tasked him to rein in Bian Zhang and Han Sui. Zhang Wen petitioned Sun Jian to ac-company him.

While stationed at Chang-an, Zhang Wen summoned Dong Zhuo

who arrived very late. Zhang Wen rebuked Dong Zhuo who showed con-tempt in his response. Sun Jian was presented at the meeting, he whispered to Zhang Wen,

“Dong Zhuo does not respect the order and he is unkempt, vicious, and rebellious. He is like a wild vulture spreading its wing. His words show no propriety. He should be charged with tardiness and punishable by death."

Zhang Wen replied,

“Dong Zhuo is well respected within these regions. If he is to be executed, then we will lose local supports to our effort.”

Sun Jian said,

“Enlightened Elder personally leads troops of the Son of Heaven, his awesomeness shakes Heaven Below. Why should he rely on Dong Zhuo? By his tone and attitude, Dong Zhuo does not humble himself in the presence of Enlightened Elder, he slighted his senior officer and showed no respect. That is his first crime. Dong Zhuo allowed Bian Zhang and Han Sui to germinate for years and refused to do anything about it. When he was tasked to take on those rogues, he said it could not be done. This caused troop morale to sag and doubt among officers. That is his second crime. Dong Zhuo had been ordered to bring Bian Zhang and Han Sui to justice. Yet, he had nothing to show for his effort. Now, he was summoned but arrived late. He thought highly of himself and no one else. That is his third crime. All these are sufficient

ground for Dong Zhuo's exe-cution. Fame generals of an-tiquity, with the symbol of authority given by his king, always awed his troops by publicly executed those who have made minor transgres-sion. This establishes order and discipline. That is why Xiang Qi? executed Zhuang Ji? and Wei Jiang punished Yang Gan1. Now, Enlight-ened Elder shows concern for Dong Zhuo and refuses to punish. This will bring doubts to order and discipline.”

Zhang Wen still did not have the heart to issue the punishment, instead, he says

“Lord Sun, please return to your seat. Such whisper will cause Dong Zhuo to be suspi-cious.”

Sun Jian excused himself and left. When Bian Zhang and Han Sui heard of imperial troops marching toward them, their followers abandoned them. And they surrendered. Zhang Wen brought back his force. Imperial Cen-sor heard that no battle had occurred, thus, no basis for giving out recogni-tion and merit. Yet, when they heard of the Three Charges Sun Jian had brought against Dong Zhuo and asked Zhang Wen to punish Dong Zhuo, they sighted at the lost opportunity.

Sun Jian promoted to position of Gentleman Consultant2 for his effort in the pacification of Liang Province. In Chang-sha Commandery, a bandit leader, Qu Xing, called himself The General and led over ten thousand men. They sieged the city, Wei-yi. Choa-ting promoted Sun Jian to be-come the Grand Administrator3 of Chang-sha. Upon arrived at the com-mandery, he immediately to charge of leading officials and troops. He pre-

“Dong Zhuo does not respect the order and he is unkempt, vicious, and rebellious. ... He should be charged with tardiness and punish-able by death.”

Sun Jian advising Zhang Wen

Dong Zhuo

Sun Jian and Dong Zhuo have known each other before the coup.Courtesy of Creator Work-shop Dragon Dynasty CCG


Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tzepared defensive facilities and planned for counterattack. Within a month, he attacked Qu Xing and his bandits. In nearby commanderies, Ling- ling and Gui-yang, other bandits, Zhou Chao and Guo Shi, responded to Qu Xing's calling and raised troops to assist him. Sun Jian crossed the boundary and attacked those other rogue leaders in their respective commandery. Soon, all three commanderies were cleared of pillagers. Choa-ting recognized Sun Jian's merits and ennobled him to Mar-quis of Ni?o-cheng Prefecture.

Against Dong ZhuoAfter the death of Han Emperor

Ling, Dong Zhuo began to terrorize Choa-ting. Many provincial inspectors and commanderies grand administra-tors raised army against him. Sun Jian also mobilized his army. Wang Rui, Inspector of Bing Province, had been shown disrespect to Sun Jian for some times now. As Sun Jian's troops crissed into attacked Bing Province and on his way to join the alliance. He had eliminated Wang Rui.

By the time he arrived at Nan-yang Commandery, Sun Jian had mobilized hundred thousand some troops. Zhang Zi, Grand Administrator of Nan- yang Commandery knew Sun Jian's arrival. Bit he did not care. Sun Jian sent food and wine to Zhang Zi as a courtesy. Several days later, Zhang Zi invited Sun Jian to dinner as to returned the favor. As both were drinking, Sun Ji-an's staff, Master of Records, entered and reported to him as followed.

“Our troops have arrived at Nan- yang. But the roads of Nan- yang were in disrepair. Supplies that our troops have requested were not forth com-ing. Please arrest Nan- yang's Master of Records in order to interrogate him the reason for

such inactions.”

Zhang Zi was surprised and at-tempted to escape. But Sun Jian al-ready stationed his troops around the building and trapped the Grand Ad-ministrator of Nan- yang. Few minute later, Sun Jian's Master of Record en-tered and reported,

“The Grand Administrator of Nan- yang has willfully hin-dered our troops movement. Our troops were not able to attack in time. Please arrest the Grand Administrator and have him properly punished accord-ing to the Law.”

Zhang Zi was taken out and been beheaded at the military gate. People of Nan- yang were shocked. They quickly supplied everything Sun Jian's troops have asked for. They continued to Luo-yang. There, they met up with Yuan Shu. He recommended that Sun

Jian to be promoted to General of Breakthrough and Capture and also to Inspector of Yu Zhou. Sun Jian estab-lished and maintained troops disci-plines at Lu-yang.

One day, Sun Jian and his officers with small complement of troops were outside of Lu-yang city and have just finished the ceremony to reaffirm his promised of eliminate the evil. News of Dong Zhuo's tens of thousand strong foot soldiers and cavalry came to arrest Sun Jian. Initially, only tens of Dong's light cavalry have arrived; Sun Jian were still in midst of celebra-tion. He ordered his troops to stand ready and not to react against opposing force. Gradually, Dong's force was getting larger. Sun Jian slowly stop the celebration and led his troops calmly back into the city. Then he explains,

“When Dong's light cavalry have appeared, I did not act for

Sun Jian’s Advance

City: Lu-yang

Capital: Luo-yang

Dong Zhou’s Retreat

Of all the lords and general in the Alli-ance, none was more successful in driving out Dong Zhuo than Sun Jian!


Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tzefear of panic the troops. Panic would soon led to route as troops hastened to return to the safety of the city.”

Dong Zhuo saw Sun Jian's troops withdraw in an orderly fashion, he dared not siege the city. He, too, led his troops back. Later, Sun Jian de-cided to relocate to the east of Lu-yang. However, there, they suffered heavy attacks from Dong Zhuo. Sun Jian and score of cavalry broke free and fled. Since he always wore the red turban, Sun Jian ordered fellow offi-cer, Zu Mao, to wear his red turban and to lead the pursuits away. Dong forces were busy chase after Zu Mao, Sun Jian and other fled away. When he was about to be cornered, Zu Mao jumped off the horse and placed the red turban on top of a post. He hid in the grass. When Dong Zhuo saw the red turban, he ordered his troops to surround it before he himself got close. Once he realized that he had been tricked, Dong Zhuo led his troops away.

Sun Jian returned to Lu-yang and gathered troops. He met up with allied troops at area around Yang-ren. They won against Dong Zhuo force and slew Hua Xiong. By then, detractors began to create doubt in Yuan Shu. He cut off the supply to Sun Jian's force. The distance from Yang-ren to Lu-yang is some 30+ miles away. One night, Sun Jian rode back to confront Yuan Shu.

“I have forsake everything, even myself to fought against the enemy. This was to pacify chaos for the country and to avenge for House Yuan. There

was no hatred of kin-slaying between Sun Jian and Dong Zhuo. Yet, General listened to others rumors and created doubts!”

Yuan Shu had always respected Sun Jian and felt uncertain of his doubt. He granted the request to imme-diately deliver the supply. Sun Jian returned to camp that night.

Dong Zhuo began to fear Sun Jian martial prowess. He sent his follower, General Li Cui, to negotiate with Sun Jian. Dong Zhuo wanted to establish kinship through their children's mar-riage. He would put Sun Jian's sons and brothers into official recommen-dation for promotion to province in-spector or commandery grand administrator.

Sun Jian replied,

“Dong Zhuo went against the Heaven and had lost the Way; he shook the social equilib-rium and toppled Han Imperial Family. His crime deserved no less than execution of three generation of Dong House and his severed head is to be dis-play as warning to Four Seas. Without accomplish these, I would not died in peace. Why would I want to establish kin-ship with him?"

After being supplied, Sun Jian re-sumed to move to Grand Valley, about 23 miles southeast of Luo- yang. Upon hearing the news, Dong Zhuo evacu-ated the capital and relocated to Chang-an. Before he left, Dong Zhuo razed the city. Sun Jian pressed for-ward and entered Luo- yang. There, he

repaired imperial burial mounds and properly buried those graves Dong Zhuo had robbed. Then, he returned to Luo-yang with his army to await for further instruction.

Death of Sun JianOn the Third Year of Early Peace

during Han Emperor Xian's reign (192 AD), Yuan Shu ordered Sun Jian to invade Jing Province, which was un-der protection of Liu Biao, the Provin-cial Shepherd. Liu Biao sent subordinate general, Huang Zhu, to stop Sun Jian.

They met and fought at area around Fan City and Deng Prefecture. Sun Jian broke through Huang Zhu and gave chased after routed army. Huang Zhu retreated across Han River and into Xiang-yang [City]. Still, Sun Jian was able to force Huang Zhu to abandon that city. However, while pursued after fleeing army, Sun Jian moved into the ambush set by Huang Zhu rear guards. He was killed in hail of quarrels.

Sun Bi, son of Sun Jian's elder brother, brought the remaining troops back to Yuan Shu. Yuan Shu recom-mended Sun Bi to be the Inspector of Yu Province.

Sun Jian has four sons: Sun Ce, Sun Quan, Sun Yi and Sun Kuang. When Sun Quan became emperor, he elevated Sun Jian to be Virtuous Mar-tial Emperor of Wu.

CommentaryChen Shou (the author of San-gu-

zhi) critiqued of Sun Jian as follow:


Hua Xiong

Contrary to the novel, Sun Jian slew Hua Xiong as instead of Guan Yu.Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG

There was no mention of Sun Jian found the Imperail Seal in offi-cial record.Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG


Quarterly Theme Deck - Yellow Turban (Cheese)This is the first of series of article

to focus on Dragon Dynasty Collect-ible Card Game. For many, there are numerous cards that seem to be broken or oozed with cheese. But if there are sufficient broken cards, then overall the card game itself is not broken, is it not so? Therefore, the purpose of this series is to introduce a specific theme deck in two flavors: tournament deadly and simulated story.

Tournament Deadly

Subjugating the enemy’s army without fighting is the true pinnacle of excellence.

Sun-tzu Art of War Chapter 3

This is the design philosophy be-hind Dragon Dynasty for tournament. Face it, in tournament where prize and prestige are at stake, people will play hardball. Accordingly,

Subjugating the opponent’s deck on the first draw is the true pinnacle of excellence.

Dragon Dynasty Art of Tournament

Nothing is more satisfying than on your first draw, your opponent’s fate had been sealed. You are in control of time element. Of course, it is fool-hardy to depend your entire deck strat-egy on the First Draw Victory. The deck has to be able to have a secondary way (Attack the Army) and a tertiary way (Siege the Deck) of winning. At-tack the Army is the most common route for players to win in tournament. Both players will be on race to bring out necessary components to systemat-ically destroy the opponent’s cards. This secondary way includes the base condition of achieving ten victory points. Therefore, a player has to pre-pare at least 3 ways of winning for the Attack the Army stratagem. Time may or may not work against you. Siege the Deck occurs when player lost all pos-

sible win from his deck or initiative; he can only hope to outlast his opponent and achieve the dubious win. Deck size helps in this stratagem but it is at the expanses of other two.

Tournament Deck - Yellow Turban (Cheese)

On the chart below is the composi-tion of the Tournament Deck - Yellow Turbans. The total VP value is 12 which is quite low compared to other honor or positive vp theme decks. And its maximum VP is 25. Again, not very high when compare to other decks. The offset for this seemly low VP value is its ability to win through neg-ative victory points.

First Draw Victory

1. Yellow Scarf Bandit, Zhang Bao, Burning of Lou Yang

2. Yellow Scarf Bandit, Zhang Liang

Attack the Army

1. combo: Old Sage from the South, Jade Seal, Zhang Jiao, Female As-sassin

2. combo: Zhang Liang, Female Assassin

3. combo: 10 vp win

This is an easy deck to make. There are two possible First Draw Vic-

Tournament Deck’s Yellow Turban (Cheese)

• 2 Foot Archer (#001C)• 2 Horse Archer (#002C)

• 1 Zhang Bao (#008U)• 1 Zhang Liang (#009U)• 4 Yellow Scarf Bandit (#013C)• 2 Female Assassins (#044U)• 2 Old Sage from the Splendid South (#058U)• 1 Zhang Jio (#X-RAYS)• 2 Que Hua Gong (#078C)• 1 Nine Section Iron Whip (#078C)• 2 Poor Land (#080C)• 2 Arrow of Cold (#081C)• 2 Men of Paper / Horse Grass (#083U)• 1 Jade Seal (#088R)• 1 Burning of Lou Yang (113R)• 4 Small Town (118C)

Staple Defensive Cards

• 2 Spy (#017C)• 2 Burn Supply (#019C)• 2 Setup (#094C)• 2 Lost (#095C)• 2 Bags of Trick (#097C)

Overall VP: 12Maximum VP: 25

First Draw VictoryCourtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG


Quarterly Theme Deck - Yellow Turban (Cheese)tory. First is Zhang Bao’s lose your hand and die victory condition. Sec-ond is Zhang Liang’s I don’t see your personality card in play and die vic-tory condition. Though the later is con-sider a Flawless Victory, but the first one is more fun as the opposing player has to discard his hand. Be sure to follow the play order of card listed above. Do not play personality card until there are sufficient cards with positive vp to cover the lost.

After the First Draw Victory op-portunity comes and goes, it is time to start prepare the killer combo as in the Attack the Army section. Key compo-nent is Old Sage from the South and his ability to fetch anyone or anything, preferably the Jade Seal. Once this combo is in place, player has the choice of going honorable route (positive vp) or toward infamous route (negative vp), very flexible. By going honorable route, both Old Sage and Jade Seal already contribute 4 positive victory points. By going infamous route, one would need 2 addition combo cards, Zhang Liang or Zhang Jiao, and female assassin. Female As-sassin has a lightning symbol which means her ability can be used any time and any number of times within a given round.

This deck is not construct to with-stand or to initiate Siege the Deck. This deck requires player to sacrifice a card in order to get a card in hand. So the attrition rate is above the norm. Even with Zhang Liang whose ability forces other player to discard a card in order to play a personality card is not every efficient way of using it. If the game has been dragged on to this stage of Siege the Deck, be prepared for the inevitable defeat.

Simulated Story

This is a strong point of Dragon Dynasty, the ability to simulate story event as described in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. Here is the Yel-low Turban theme deck that appears on the first two chapters of the novel.

This simulated story deck requires a careful card management to not go-ing into negative vp. There is no Jade Seal for protection. And there are at least 4 cards that have large negative vp score. Also, this deck introduces some characters that were relatively minor note in Romance of the Three Kingdoms novel. Hopefully, with this deck, players can make them into rec-ognizable and fearful individuals.

Below are brief descriptions of characters…

Deng Mao (#004C) appeared in the first chapter of RTK. He was a general under Cheng Yuan Zhi. Zhang Fei defeated him, right through the heart.

Cheng Yuan Zhi (#005C) appeared in the first chapter of RTK. He was a Yellow Turban chieftain who met un-timely death by Guan Yu.

Zhang Bao (#008U) appeared in the first chapter of RTK. He called himself Lord of Earth and one of the brothers of Zhang Jiao. He was killed by one of his general.

Zhang Liang (#009U) appeared in the first chapter of RTK. He called himself Lord of Men and one of the brothers of Zhang Jiao. He was killed in battle by Hwong Fu Song troops.

Sun Zhong (#033C) appeared in the second chapter of RTK. He became prominent after death of Zhang broth-ers along with Han Zhong and Zhao Hong. They tried to avenge their for-mer masters. Liu Bei shot him.

Han Zhong (#034C) appeared in the second chapter of RTK. Like Sun Zhong, he became the second genera-tion of leader of Yellow Turban. He was sieged by Zhu Jyun and with ad-vice of Liu Bei, Han Zhong was tricked out of the city to die.

Zhao Hong (#035C) appeared in the second chapter of RTK. He was the third triumvirate of the second genera-tion of Yellow Turban. Sun Jian de-feated him.

Old Sage from the Splendid South(#058U) appeared in the first chapter

Story Deck – Yellow Turban

• Deng Mao (#004C)• Cheng Yuan Zhi (#005C)• Zhang Bao (#008U)• Zhang Liang (#009U)• 4 Yellow Scarf Bandits (#013C)• Sun Zhong (#033C)• Han Zhong (#034C)• Zhao Hong (#035C)• Old Sage from the Splendid South (#058U)• Zhang Jiao (#061R)• 2 Dai Dao (#076C)• 2 Que Hua Gong (#077C)• 2 Poor Land (#080C)• 2 Arrow of Cold (#81U)• 2 Men of Paper/Horses of Grass (#083U)• Sorcerous Altar of Yellow Scarf (#084U)• Art of Excessively Peace (#093R)• Discord of Yellow Scarf (#111R)• Plague (#112R)• 3 Small Towns (#118C)

Staple Defensive Cards

• 2 Spy (#017C)• 2 Burn Supply (#019C)• 2 Setup (#094C)• 2 Lost (#095C)• 2 Bags of Trick (#097C)

Overall VP: 7

Maximum VP: 23


Quarterly Theme Deck - Yellow Turban (Cheese)of RTK. He seemed to be the instigator of the entire Yellow Turban affair by giving the book, Art of Excessively Peace (#093R), to Zhang Jiao (#061R). Just to show the old adage, the best laid plan of mice and men…

Zhang Jiao (#061R) appeared in the first chapter of RTK. He was a failed

candidate to bureaucratic examination and retired home to farm. One day, a book literally fell into his laps. He generated lots of followings by his teachings and curing ability. Then with sufficient followers, he began to get strange idea.

This concludes the Quarterly Theme Deck section. Hopefully, this article will let readers think of addi-tional new variation or to create their own First Draw Victory.

Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tze"Sun Jian is brave, ferocious and strict. He is committed and has strong will. Start from dimness of a candlelight, he was soon able to brighten to greatness. He advised Zhang Wen to execute Dong Zhuo; he repaired imperial graves that Dong Zhuo had plun-dered. Sun Jian embedded with virtues of bravery, righ-teous, generosity, and strength."

Author ObservationOf all the lords and generals gath-

ered against Dong Zhuo, only Sun Jian and Cao Cao were doing it for the sake of saving Han Dynasty. Between the two, Sun Jian was the one that started from nothing and worked his way up almost to the top. Though he came from famous ancestry, unlike Yuan Shao, Sun Jian did not rest on his family fame but based his merit on his effort. It is a great tragedy for him to die at such a young age. Would he be alive, could Han Dynasty possibly ex-ist for another hundred or so years? Sun Jian being the greater threat in the South (than Yuan Shu or Liu Biao), how would Cao Cao defend against Yuan Shao's drive toward the capital?

Keen reader also may have note a major omission within San-gu-zhi, there is no mention of Sun Jian finding

the Imperial Seal. And reading over Yuan Shu's chapter, there is also no stating of imperial seal despite his ambition to be an emperor. It does seem plausible that the author of Ro-mance of the Three Kingdoms used Imperial Seal as symbol of Sun Jian's greatness and to foretold the eventual rise of Wu Kingdom.

Reading exploits of Sun Jian have also brought another famed RTK char-acter in mind. Zhao Yun bore a lot of similarity to Sun Jian. Both have scant background information; they were known for their loyalty and steadfast-ness; they were able generals and ex-cellent fighters; both were overlooked by their respective lords (only Zhu-ge Liang and Cao Cao fully appreciated Zhao Yun); Sun Jian had restored the ancestral graves of Han Dynasty and Zhao Yun rescued the only son of Liu Bei, the future of Han Dynasty/Shu Kingdom.

Reading the tragedy of Sun's fam-ily bring in an eerily resemblances to a modern hero whose family also suf-fered similar fate. Bruce Lee was a rising star to be the first between East and West. However, his early demised have brought many speculations. And Brandon, son of Bruce Lee, died of mysterious circumstance when he about to break into full stardom.

Only recently in Taiwan and pop-

ular in Japan, key figures of Three Kingdoms were thoroughly examined and extrapolated in historical fiction. It is the hope of this author to one day to read more about the Scion of Sun Tse.

Bibliography

Bielenstein, Hans, The bureaucracy of Han times, Cambridge University Press, (c)1980

Chen Shou, San-gu-zhi

http://www.threekingdoms.net

Footnotes

1 These are generals during the Spring & Autumn period and the Warring State period who maintained strict disciplines within their armies.

2 This is a Grade 8th minister whose function was to provide the emperor with advice and criticism only when asked of an imperial ques-tions. But they were able to write their opinion in private.

3 This is a Grade 3 government position.

Another candidate for First Draw Victory

Zhang LiangCourtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG

Hwong Tsu

Bane of Sun JianCourtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty CCG


Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han DynastySun Reflect from the Luo River,

Luo-yang is one of the Seven Ancient Capitals of China. There is a mountain to the North; fortresses guarded the East and the West passages; and a military base defended the South. It was well situated, with pleasant weath-ers and rich soil deposits from nearby four rivers. The city is also well known for its peony. A feng shui (geomancy) expert once called this location "protected by a mountain and four rivers, as if Heaven Above had pro-vided such an impregnable place!"

HISTORY

The city was built as far back as the start of the Zhou dynasty (1027 BC) on the north bank of the Luo River. Its function was to be the East-ern Capital, a counterpart to the West-ern and Main Capital, Hao-jing. Zhou kings visited Luo-yang every other year to receive homage from various lords of the east and to resolve any issues in the eastern territories. The city gradually became a hub of politics and culture.

Luo-yang became the only capital after barbarians sacked Hao-jing, in 771 BC. The Zhou King Ping relo-cated to Luo-yang in 770 BC and be-gan what later known as the East Zhou dynasty. By then, Zhou kings have become figureheads. Yet, the constant presences of idle rich nobility have made the capital the real culture and economy center. Various lords co-vertly attempted to usurp the throne in what is known as the Spring and Au-tumn period (770-476 BC). Then all pretenses were dropped and contend-ers clashed openly during the Warring State period (475-221 BC). Luo-yang was razed when Qin troops moved in to eliminate the Zhou dynasty as part of their drive for unification.

Nearly eight hundred years later,

history repeated itself as the Han Em-peror Guang Wu retook the throne from the usurper, Wang Mang. This began the Late Han dynasty (26-220 AD). At that time, Chang-an, the for-mer Han dynasty's capital, had been ravaged by wars. Han Emperor Guang Wu decided to relocate eastward, where former Luo-yang used to be, in the Si-li Region. The capital was to be rebuilt from the ground up according to guidelines from the Zhou dynasty.

DESCRIPTION

Luo-yang was the model of a per-fect capital. It was nine li (about 2.3 miles) long from the North to the South and six li (about 1.6 miles) wide from the East to the West. It was shaped like a rectangle and so its nick-name was the Nine-Six City. There were 24 boulevards: 4 connected North-South and 6 linked East-West. Along these boulevards were willows and locust trees. Each boulevard ended at a city gate that was 131 feet wide and 1640 feet high. Within the city, a special avenue joined the Northern Palace Complex to the Southern Pal-ace Complex. It was referred to as the Imperial Lane and reserved only for the emperor’s use. On both side of the Imperial Lane were 5-foot-tall walls.

Palaces

There were two palace complexes within Luo-yang. The Southern Palace Complex was reserved for official business. It was the heart of the Late Han dynasty central government. The Han core bureaucracy was composed of the Three Excellencies and the Nine Ministers. The formers have their of-fices located just south of outside the Southern Palace Complex. The later have their ministries located within the Southern Palace. They have a com-pany of troops (100 men) to guard their offices. They were at the core of

the central government.

The Northern Palace Complex was reserved for the Emperor and his im-mediate household. At its center was the Palace of Righteous Sun, where the Emperor granted audience to impor-tant ministers and where important ceremonies took place. There were other palaces that devoted to his ladies. Though collectively known as the La-dies, there were even ranks among them depending on the emperor's fa-vor. Honorable Lady was a step below Empress. Beautiful Ladies were of a middle rank and Chosen Ladies of the lowest rank. Most male servants here were eunuchs, who gradually became a political force since they could have the emperor's ear; they often con-tended for the emperor's favor against ministers and imperial relatives.

Both palace complexes had similar layouts. They both had a large gate at each cardinal direction. In the North-ern Complex, gates were named after guardian animals. The southern gate was called the Gate of the Vermillion Bird; the eastern gate was the Gate of the Green Dragon; the western gate was the Gate of the White Tiger; and the northern gate was the Gate of the Black Tortoise. In the Southern Com-plex, gates were named after a trigram in I-Ching. The southern gate was the Gate of Clinging Hope (Li-men); the east gate was the Gate of Arousing Awesomeness (Zhen-men); the west gate was the Gate of Joyous Virtues (Dui-men); and the north gate was the Gate of Abysmal Mystery (Kan-men). These gates were each defended by a Commandant of the Guards and his men. There were 95 lesser officers and 537 guards for the Southern Complex. There were 72 lesser officers and 472 guards for the Northern Complex. Those who lived in the complexes had to leave and re-enter through the same gate. At the gate, they signed their

Luo-yang

Ancestral Capital of Nine Dynasties


Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynastyname and title on a registrar and re-ceived an iron tally. When they re-turned, the iron tally had to match with the one held at the registrar, else they may not pass. Outsiders who had to enter the palace complexes received wooden credentials: those were also broken into halves, one of which was kept at the registrar.

The boulevard connected the Gate of Clinging Hope directly to the south-ern and main gate of Luo-yang, or Gate of Peace. A Colonel of the City Gates with 10 crossbowmen and 10 lancers garrisoned each gate leading in and out of Luo-yang. These city gates opened during the hour of the Rabbit (around 7 AM) and closed during the hour of the Dog (around 8 PM).

The Palace of Perpetual Peace was located in the northeast district outside of the Northern Palace Complex. Nearby were large granaries and ar-mories. Arms, armors and grains were received as part of taxation from local governments and stored there.

Nearly two-third of the occupants of Luo-yang were nobles and high-ranking civil ministers and military officers. The minister in charge of up-holding law and order in Luo-yang outside of Palace Complexes was the Bearer of the Gilded Mace. His staff of 200 Cavalrymen Dressed in Red and 20 Corporals armed with lances pa-trolled the city. He personally led the patrol three times a month.

Markets

There were three market areas in and around the capital. First was the Gold Market, the only one located inside Luo-yang, in the northwest dis-trict. It was the only area where rich merchants and wealthy families could live. Items of exceptional value, mas-terly crafted artifacts, and food of ex-otic tastes were sold here.

The Horse Market was located outside of northeast Luo-yang. It was close to the Imperial Armories and Ever Full Granaries. A majority of small and independent craftsmen and shops were located in this market. The Horse Market was the final stop for caravans that delivered tax shipments from various provinces. Local prov-inces were responsible for protecting the shipment up to there, where it was taken in charge by the lancers and cavalry of the Grand Minister of Agri-culture, to be escorted into the city. The troops or escort services from lo-cal provinces then enjoyed a week of revelry at the Horse Market to spend away their well-earned money before heading back home. To maintain law

and order in the Horse Market was the job of the Prefect of the Luo-yang Horse Market and his 36 bailiffs.

The South Market was located right outside of the Gate of Peace. A majority of occupants there were fam-ilies, small shops of scholarly goods, and craftsmen of scholarly arts. Two joss houses, Chinese temples, were located in the South Market. The east-ern joss house was called the Lawful and Harmonious Temple Palace. It was used for School of Literati cere-monies. The Lawful and Harmonious Temple Palace represented the Confu-cianism enlightenment to All Under Heaven. The western joss house was called the Spiritual Hall. From there was observed the movements of plan-

Northern Palace Complex

Southern Palace Complex

Gold Market

Horse Market

Imperial Armories

Ever Full Granaries

South Market

Koei’s version of Luo-yangCourtesy of Koei´s Sangokushi Engi Paper & Pencil Rolegame


Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynastyets and stars, and the weather condi-tions. Chang Heng (78-139 AD), the Imperial Astronomer, designed both the celestial globe and the seismo-graph. The celestial globe provided knowledge on the movements of heaven and was powered by water. The seismograph, or earthquake weathercock, could detect tremors re-mote from a thousand li (about 400 miles). The Spiritual Hall represented the Mandate from Heaven.

There were two other important buildings in the South Market. They were the Academy and the School at the Gate of the Vast Capital. At the Academy, five courses were taught, centered on the Book of Changes, Book of Documents, Book of Odes, Book of Rites, and Spring and Autumn Annals with the Kung-yang Commen-tary. Knowledge of those books was required for the civil entrance exami-nation. At its peak, in 131 AD, the Academy saw 112,000 convicts refur-nish its 240 buildings and 1,850 rooms. Its more than 30,000 students were sons of officials and wealthy commoners; the sons of the nobility had private tutors. Annually, there were three levels of examination that a student could decide to take. Only the top 40 students, who passed the high-est level of examination, could become Gentlemen of the Palace, candidates for the core of the central government. Only top 20 students, who passed the middle level of examination, could become members of the Suite of the Heir Apparent. They were candidates for the central government. Only top 40 students, who passed the lowest level of examination, could become Literary Scholars on Ancient Matters. They were candidates for provincial governments.

The School at the Gate of the Vast Capital was built as a rival for the Academy. Instead of the Five Courses,

the art of calligraphy, the art of procur-ing documents to the government, and the art of poetry were taught. There were only about a thousand students there, all recommended by the Three Excellencies and heads of provincial governments. After examination, stu-dents were automatically appointed to governmental posts. Naturally, this arose the ire of other ministries who claimed the School was narrow and shallow and its students as being petty and worthless.

The Prefect of the Luo-yang South Market and his 36 bailiffs maintained law and order in the South Market.

As the Late Han dynasty was near-ing its end, there were over 1.3 million people living around and within the capital. The jurisdiction of Luo-yang covered the capital, six surrounding districts and eight adjacent counties or 5,872 square miles.

CURRENT EVENTS

With the threat of the Yellow Tur-bans (184-185 AD) removed, Luo-yang went back to its internal affairs. In April 189 AD, Luo-yang was clearly divided into three political fac-tions and tension began to rise.

The Ten Perfect Attendants (or the Polluted Faction to their detrac-tors) were made of eunuchs at the Northern Palace Complex and their families. This faction formed to pre-vent the Imperial Relatives Faction from controlling the throne. Through-out the Late Han period, emperors often died young. When a young heir apparent came to the throne, his mother appointed a relative of hers to act as regent. Often the regent tried to hold on to power as long as possible, and wanted a malleable emperor. Eu-nuchs were the only ones to whom the young emperor could talk to. They were sympathetic to young emperor

and began to provide information, ad-vice, and to carry out a secret agenda. Eunuchs helped break the hold of the Imperial Relatives Faction. And in 135 AD, Han Emperor Huan showed his appreciation by ennobled 19 eunuchs, of which 10 became the Ten Perfect Attendants. Their influence reached its peak prior to the Yellow Turbans re-bellion, in 184 AD, and then slowly declined; the Han Emperor Ling get-ting more independent, they felt quite uncertain about their future. Others still considered them a menace to the empire, though. The Imperial Rela-tives hated them with a passion and had allied with the Clear Faction.

Zhang Rang was the Head of the Ten Regular Attendants. He was the main Attendant for empresses. He was their advi-sor and confidant. Zhang Rang believed that the Han dynasty would be best served under Prince Bian and had endeared himself to Empress He - to a younger sister of whom he married his foster son. Still, he did not want his allegiance to be too obvious, for fear of an-tagonizing Emperor's Mother Dong Moreover, he had grow-ing concerns about Empress He's brother, the General-in-chief He Jin. He wanted to eliminate all eunuchs. Zhang Rang hoped to influence Em-press He into controlling her brother's temperament or else, into overruling his decisions.

Duan Gui was a member of the Ten Regular Attendants and the right hand of Zhang Rang. Early during the Yellow Turban rebellion, Zhang Rang found out that Duan Gui was in touch with the leader of the Yellow Turbans. Duan Gui's information brought the rebels

In April 189 AD, Luo-yang was clearly di-vided into three politi-cal factions and tension began to rise..


Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynastynear Luo-yang before they were defeated. Afterward, Zhang Rang confronted Duan Gui, whose secrets he threat-ened to reveal unless he served him. Since then, Duan Gui at-tended to Zhang Rang by pro-viding him with connections with people of discreet talents.

Jian Shuo was the most mili-tant of the Ten Regular Atten-dants. He had persuaded the Han Emperor Ling to give him a military title, General of the Flying Cavalry, and led five companies of palace guards. He sided with Emperor's Mother Dong and believed that Prince Xie would be bet-ter suited to govern Han Chi-na. Jian Shuo believed that the He House posed a serious threat to the survival of the Ten Regular Attendants.

The Imperial Relatives Faction was created when emperor married. Newly wed empress would persuade her husband to grant high governmen-tal positions, often in the military, to members of her family. When emperor died, the head of the Imperial Rela-tives Faction often stepped in as regent for the young emperor. The influence of the Imperial Relatives Faction was nearly destroyed in 135 AD when eu-nuchs allied with the Clear Faction. The alliance secretly prepared docu-ments presenting the then Imperial Relative Liang as a traitor to the Late Han Dynasty. At daybreak, armed with signed documents from the young emperor, soldiers broke into the Liang House and arrested the General-in-chief Liang. Within days, the General-in-chief and nine generations (to indi-cate total eradication of) Liang Clan were summarily executed. But in 189 AD, the Imperial Relative Faction had regained much of its power in the He

House. They had allied with the Clear Faction to plot against the "Polluted Faction" of the eunuchs.

He Jin became General-in-chief when his younger sister bore Han Emperor Ling a child, Prince Bian, and was made Empress. Prior then, the He House had been composed of wealthy merchant in the meat industry. He Jin's speech was coarse, his behavior was straightforward, and his atti-tude was generous. He had insinuated himself with the Clear Faction. He Jin feared the Polluted Faction because of what they had done to his predecessor, whose footsteps he did not want to follow.

He Miao, younger brother of He Jin, was promoted to Gen-eral of Chariots and Cavalry through the grace of his elder sister. He enjoyed this new-found fame and prosperity. He received many gifts from the Ten Perfect Attendants and maintained friendly relations with the eunuchs. For He Mi-ao, his brother He Jin was over-reacting. Their house would never suffer the same fate as that of the previous Imperial Relatives.

Dong Zhong was General of the Valiant Cavalry and younger brother of Emperor's Mother Dong. They watched the meteoric rise of the new Imperial Relatives Faction with jealously and fear. They felt this ascension was at their expense and were afraid that they may lose everything should something happen to the emperor. Emperor's Mother Dong was already dis-

cussed with the Perfect Atten-dant Jian Shuo the possibility of upholding younger Prince Xie as Heir-Apparent. Dong Zhong was to help Jian Shuo in military matters.

The Clear Faction was made of ministers, military officers and schol-ars. They saw both the Polluted Fac-tion and the Imperial Relatives Faction as corrupted forces around the emper-or. Yet, they had to align themselves with one or the other in order to over-throw the greater threat. In 135 AD, the Clear Faction allied with the eu-nuchs to overthrow the Imperial Rela-tives Faction. And in 189 AD, they allied with the Imperial Relatives Fac-tion to overthrow the Polluted Faction.

Cao Cao, Colonel of the Cer-emonial Palace Guards, came from a dubious background. His grandfather was one of the 19 ennoble eunuchs. His fa-ther was an adopted son who had purchased the position of Grand Commandant with a million coins. Some believed that Cao Cao had to thank his father and grandfather for his current title. Yet, no one doubted his fighting abilities or his knowledge of the clas-sics. Cao Cao sought to reduce the eunuchs' influence through peaceful means.

Yuan Shao, Colonel of the Central Palace Guards, came from a respectable family. Out of four generations, three had served as one of the Three Excellencies. Yuan family was known for its loyalty to the throne. Yuan Shao was very charismatic without mak-ing a display of princely atti-tude; many worthy men flocked to serve him. He was

Even among Imperial Relatives, there is a splint faction between pro-Empress and pro-Emperor’s Mother.


Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynastythe most outspoken opponent of the eunuchs.

Lu Zhi, Master of Writing, was a senior member of the Clear Faction and the most respected. Prior the Yellow Turban Crisis, he had achieved the status of Erudite. During the Yellow Turban Crisis, he had received the position of General of the Gentlemen of the Household. Lu Zhi was an able commander and gained much recognition from his de-feating the Yellow Turbans. At the end of the crisis, he returned to his civil post as Master of Writing: an official who processed the documents addressed to the emperor and who also drafted the emperor's responses and orders. He was known to be serious and righ-teous. Lu Zhi also believed in a gradual weakening of the eunuchs' influence.

Though not a faction, the Han Imperial Family was the focal point. Even they were plagued with prob-lems. Most serious was the dispute about the succession. Emperor's Mother Dong favored the younger prince Xie, bored by Beautiful Lady Wang, who died at birth. She tried to persuade Emperor Ling to name Prince Xie his Heir Apparent, a title which tradition would have seen con-ferred upon Empress He's son, Prince Bian, who was the elder. Empress He conferred with both her family and eunuchs. She had heard rumors con-cerning Emperor's Mother Dong's at-tempt to make Prince Xie Heir Apparent. Zhang Rang reassured her this would not happen. Emperor Ling did not want to break from tradition, yet. He himself have just awakened from the slumber of pamper and vice. And he began to take a more active

interest in politics. Han Emperor Ling had also come to realize that not all advice from his eunuchs were for the best of his interests.

Empress He was the younger sister of He Jin. She had en-tered the South Palace Com-plex as the Honorable Lady. Only after having given birth to Prince Bian was she ele-vated to the title of Empress. She enjoyed her position and being pampered by eunuchs. She had done her filial duty by having titles and positions awarded to her family. Now, she had to think about what was best for herself and her son, the future emperor of the Han dynasty.

Emperor Ling had been kept away from politics for more than 30 years of his life. In the Northern Palace Complex, he had thought of many ways to enjoy himself, by following the advice of his eunuchs. When the Yellow Turban Cri-sis began, he felt as if he had awakened from a very long dream. He started to get in-volved in the daily business of governing an empire.

Emperor's Mother Dong was, in fact, stepmother to Han Emperor Ling. She had enjoyed her position. But thing changed when he ele-vated that commoner to be his empress. She now pinned her hope on her other grandson, Prince Xie, as the next emper-or. Emperor's Mother Dong persuade her stepson to re-name Prince Xie Heir Appar-ent numerous time. Secretly, she had both Dong Zhong and Jian Shuo sided with her.

ADVENTURE SEEDS

Here are the actual events which eventually led to the Massacre of the Eunuchs and, later on, to the end of the Late Han dynasty. Each is in itself a seed for adventures. It will be up to the GM to decide whether or not the play-ers' actions will have any direct effect on the eventual outcome. It is possible for the PCs to be invited by one of the major factions but, should they arrive at Luo-yang undecided, they may still have to side soon with a faction. With-out an affiliation and protectors, they would make perfect scapegoats.

Timeline of Events, 189ADApril 8th - While looking over peti-tions and official censures, Emperor Ling suddenly suffers a stroke. The Court Physician deems it imprudent to move the sick emperor about; a make-shift bed is installed in the Central Palace of the Southern Complex. The emperor's wife and mother are unable to reach him.

April 12th - Perfect Attendant Jian Shuo suggests taking preventive ac-tion against General-in-chief He Jin. Emperor Mother Dong gives her con-sent. He Jin is summoned to court. However, upon passing the Gate of Clinging Hope at the Southern Com-plex, his entourage suddenly turns around and speeds away.

April 13th - The death of Emperor Ling shocks the capital. Colonel Cao Cao of the Ceremonial Palace Guards advises He Jin to immediately uphold Prince Bian as the next Han Emperor before someone else takes action. That very afternoon, a coronation ceremony is performed and Prince Bian becomes Emperor Shao. Empress He becomes Empress Dowager He. Emperor's Mother Dong becomes Emperor's Grandmother Dong

April 15th - The assassination attempt

Han Emperor Ling had also come to re-alize that not all ad-vice from his eunuchs were for the best of his interests.


Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynastyon the person of He Jin is revealed to be from the Perfect Attendant Jian Shuo. Though Emperor's Grand-mother Dong is suspected, there is no direct link to be found between Jian Shuo and her.

April 17th - After sending Cao Cao to talk to the Perfect Attendants into maintaining neutrality and after plac-ing Colonel Yuan Shao of the Central Palace Guards in opposition to Gen-eral Dong Zhong of the Valiant Caval-ry, General-in-chief He Jin leads his force to attack General Jian Shuo of the Flying Cavalry in the Northern Complex. Jian Shuo is killed.

April 18th - Flushed with victory, Yuan Shao argues that it is time to eliminate all the eunuchs. Cao Cao disagrees. Informed by his spy in the He household, Zhang Rang leads the surviving eunuchs to beg Empress Dowager He for protection. She agrees and summons her brother. He Jin re-turns and calls off the plan.

April 20th - Zhang Rang plans a two-fold support. On the first hand, he has Duan Gui suggest to Emperor's Grand-mother Dong that they should take action immediately, before the Han dynasty is lost to a commoner. On the other hand, he, himself, placates Em-press Dowager He and offers gifts to He Miao, in an attempt to appease the He House.

April 24th - Empress Dowager He feels that the infighting within the Im-perial Family serves no purpose but to weaken all its members. She invites Emperor's Grandmother Dong to a dinner. However, when she asks that they both avoid getting more involved into political matters, Emperor's Grandmother Dong flies into a rage. She accuses the Empress Dowager of overstepping and her brother, He Jin, of manipulating the court. Should the He House refuse to relinquish control,

Emperor's Grandmother would call upon the General of the Valiant Cav-alry to right the wrongs. Both part angrily. Later that night, the Empress Dowager summons her brother and informs him of the situation. Not sure about what action to take, He Jin re-turns to his men and asks for advice. Cao Cao suggests naming a high-rank-ing military officer of the Clear Fac-tion to watch over the General of the Valiant Cavalry and to request Emper-or's Grandmother to retire.

May 1st - During the morning session, He Jin proposes to the Imperial Court to have Emperor's Grandmother Dong retired to her home province, Liang. In addition, he asks for the release of Dong Zhong from his duty as General of the Valiant Cavalry so he may prop-erly take care of his sister. The Impe-rial Court grants General-in-chief both of his requests. In the afternoon, Em-peror's Grandmother Dong is set to leave. Yuan Shao, the newly appointed Bearer of the Gilded Mace, arrives at Dong Zhong's estate with large squad-rons of troops. He presents the impe-rial decree that relieves Dong Zhong from his duty as the General of the Valiant Cavalry. Dong Zhong thanks the emperor's grace and asks for his family to be left alone. His wish grant-ed, he walks to a backroom and com-mits suicide.

May 2nd - Seeing that the Dong House's influence has vanished within a day, Zhang Rang and others renew their efforts to persuade Empress Dowager He of their loyalty and to bribe He Miao and Matriarch He. In addition, Duan Gui is sent to maintain contact with officers who were loyal to Dong Zhong and believe that their general was wrongly accused. These officers are secretly gathered along with remaining officers under Perfect Attendant Jian Shuo.

June - With the aim in mind to com-pletely eliminate the Dong House, He Jin sends assassins to eliminate the former Emperor's Grandmother Dong, in spite of the protests from his advi-sors and allies. Soon, deeds of his ac-tion begin to diffuse throughout the city. Zhang Rang and Duan Gui fur-ther fuel the fear of the Imperial Rela-tives and garner support from the Clear Faction and military officers.

July - Back from a patrol, Yuan Shao warns He Jin about the growing influ-ence of the Polluted Faction. In the streets and in barracks, he has heard talks about the General-in-chief mur-dering the defenseless old woman Dong and about how the Imperial Rel-atives were about to usurp the Throne again. He warns that it is time to strike before more people are beguiled by the propaganda of the Ten Perfect Atten-dants. He Jin goes to see his sister and asks for the eunuchs to be relieved from their military ranks. But the Em-press Dowager begins to have doubts about her brother's intentions; she claims that for the eunuchs to lead the palace guards is an ancestral right. She dares not break the tradition.

Late July - For Zhang Rang and Duan Gui, enough is enough. It is time to strike back before they are eliminated one by one. First they persuade Em-press Dowager He that the right to lead the palace guards is not to the eunuchs' benefit but for the protection of the Imperial Family, so that powerful rela-tives and ambitious officials cannot influence emperor and empress. Be-lieving in their argument, the Empress Dowager throws her support behind the Ten Perfect Attendants. In addi-tion, the Clear Faction claims that their sole interest lies in serving the em-peror and that there are numerous mil-itary officers who sympathize with the Imperial Family.

Within a day, Imperial Relative Dong Faction has been completely dissolved.


Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han DynastyEarly August - Yuan Shao calculates and finds that their forces are more and more at a disadvantage against those of the Polluted Faction as time passes. He advises He Jin to bring forces from provincial governments to attack the Polluted Faction and destroy it once and for all. Feeling the weigh of such a move, the General-in-chief calls for a meeting with pro-Imperial Relatives members of the Clear Faction. Near the end of meeting, three options were put forth...

1) Chen Lin, Master of Re-cords, suggests an immediate lightning strike to take the eu-nuchs by surprise and elimi-nate them.

2) He Jin, a non-combatant, suggests gathering as many troops as possible to awe the eunuchs into submission, since subduing without blood-shed is the ultimate art of war.

3) Cao Cao suggests having the senior military officer of the Clear Faction profess neu-trality and state that he will not tolerate any fighting, and that offenders will incur the wrath of the Imperial Troops. He suggests reducing the number of targets to just the Ten, for the crime of treason and their corrupting influence on the Imperial Family.

Despite his pretending to agree with a choice of popular support, as per Cao Cao's suggestion, He Jin sends agents to alert the leaders of provincial armies. Suspecting that the General-in-chief will not really listen to the advice of the son of a eunuch, Cao Cao predicts that the origin of the chaos to come will be none other than the Gen-eral himself.

Mid August - The first to answer the

call is Dong Zhuo, Inspector of the Liang Province, with over 200,000 troops. Though not related to the Im-perial Dong Family, he has always wanted to get involve in affairs of the central government.

Upon receiving the news, He Jin has alerted his allies and asks for ad-vice from his confidants. Despite much protest, He Jin consults with Yuan Shao, who expresses indiffer-ence in regards to Dong Zhuo's forces. He Jin pursues as planned despite ob-jections from allied Clear Faction members. On that day, many members of the pro-Imperial Family Clear Fac-tion resigned from their posts to ex-press their disagreement with He Jin's action. Others decide to call to the largest army led by Ding Yuan, the General of Martial Fury, within the Si-li Region. His task is to watch over Dong Zhuo and prevents later from being too overly aggressive.

August 25th - The Ten Perfect Atten-dants having learnt about the arrival of Dong Zhuo, they expect the massacre to take place any day; they have to act swiftly. Zhang Rang summons the other Perfect Attendants and to plan the following:

1. In the name of Empress He, they would request Gener-al-in-chief under pretense of kowtow to the He House.

2. Perfect Attendant Zhang Rang would lead 50 hal-berdiers to set up ambush at the Promote Virtue Hall in the Southern Complex.

3. Perfect Attendant Zhao Zhong would lead 500 palace guards to garrison Southern Complex gates to prevent any force entry.

4. Perfect Attendant Cao Jie would lead 300 palace guards

to defend the Northern Com-plex against outsiders.

5. Perfect Attendant Guo Sheng would stand by with 200 Fierce and Courageous Guardsmen to reinforce either Complex when necessary or to create a diversion.

6. If necessary, Zhang Rang would lead the Empress Dow-ager, the emperor and the young prince away.

August 25 - Upon He Jin receiving the summons, others at the He House be-come suspicious and ask the General-in-chief not to go. He replies, "the Empress Dowager summons me to court, how could there by any trou-ble?" He then leaves for the palace. His entourage accompanies him all the way to the Li-men at the Southern Complex, where guards state that only the General-in-chief He and his hand-ful of bodyguards can enter...

But of the end, it was only the beginning.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

http://campus.northpark.edu/history/WebChron/China/LaterHan.html

http://www.cohums.ohio-state.edu/deall/jin.3/c231/handouts/h8.htm

http://www.friesian.com/six.htm#china

http://library.thinkquest.org/23062/index.html

http://www.geo.mtu.edu/UPSeis/studying.html

http://www.regenttour.com/chinaplanner/lya/lya-glance.htm

http://www.threekingdoms.com

Despite warnings from his comrades and advisors, He Jin still walked into an ambush



Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) midst of crisis condition.

According to Chen Gong's plan, once Fan-cheng answered his call, he could rapidly advance to attack both Dong-a and Zhen-cheng. But because Cheng Yu had negated his blackmail plan against Lei Yun and destroyed bridges, Chen Gong was forced to go around and rejoined Lu Bu at Pu-yang.

Despite the lost of Pu-yang, once rescued, Xiahou Dun still led troops to tangle with Lu Bu's forces at outskirts of the city. This reduced pressures to other three cities. It also brought time for Cao Cao to return and to recapture.

Battle of Pu-yang, Do or Die

Initially, what worried Cao Cao the most was if Lu Bu had captured both Fan-cheng and Dong-a, he could effectively control Yen Province and the key route between Yen Province and Xu Province. Thereby, he could block Cao Cao from return. No doubt, Cheng Yu had also realized this and successfully negated Lu Bu's advance.

Once, he heard that Xiahou Dun and Lu Bu fought at Pu-yang, Cao Cao was relieved. He believed that despite Lu Bu and Chen Gong were able to convince Yen Province to join their cause within a night, their army could only advance to Pu-yang. This demon-strated the lack of coordination be-tween Chen Gong's plan and actual army movement. Thus, this was the weak point between Lu Bu and Chen Gong that could be exploited to full advantage. Once Pu-yang has retaken, then it would be easy to regain the support of other commanderies sup-ports. Hence, the key battle would be the retaken of Pu-yang!

As soon as he arrived, Cao Cao immediately attacked Pu-yang. His scouts reported that Lu Bu had an aux-iliary troop stationed at 40 - 50 li (12-

16 miles + /20 - 25+ km) west of the city. He decided to destroy that force first to reduce opponent's morale.

Both Chen Gong and Zhang Mao were familiar with Cao Cao tactic. They expected an attack to happen as soon as Cao Cao returned. But they didn't image to be this quick when they received the news of their auxiliary troop had been destroyed on the same night as he arrived. However, Chen Gong did know that for such an attack to happen, Cao Cao had to personally leading the ambush. And the strike force also had to be small so that it could not be easily detected. There-fore, Chen Gong suggested Lu Bu to lead the main force to ambush the ambushers. And if Cao Cao was killed or captured, this battle would be over.

As Cao Cao's force return at early dawn, flush with victory from night before, they were surrounded by Lu Bu's troops. Cao Cao knew that his troops were too small to hold off for long. He found a narrow passage to defend against the onslaught. Lu Bu personally led the attack now that he knew for certain of Cao Cao pres-encce. From morning to noon, there were twenty some assaults. Yet, Cao Cao defense still held. Both sides suf-fered heavy casualties.

Cao Cao realized that eventually Lu Bu would break through simply because Lu's force had greater number of troops. Cao Cao had to break through this predicament. He openly asked for volunteers to form the sui-cide squad whose function was to puncture through enemy lines. Dian Wei, captain of his personal guards, offered to lead an hundred plus men. Each person wore two suits of armors. They only carried spears and no shields. They charged toward the en-emy line. Archers from Lu Bu's camp have lined up front and fire in an at-

tempt to whittle away the charging force. Against rain of death, Dian Wei told his troops to lay low and wait. Lu's troop stopped and advanced slowly with archers in front and infan-try at behind.

Dian Wei closed his eyes and told nearby soldiers to alert him when the enemies were ten steps away.

They replied, "ten steps!"

Dian Wei told them to alert him when opponents were five steps away.

When they yelled out, "five steps!" Dian Wei opened his eyes and stared at his opponents. Gave a great shout, he charged into enemy with a pair of short halberds. His troops followed. Lu's troops were surprised and morale became routed. Those in the way were stabbed. A hole has been punctured! By then, it was getting dark, Cao Cao followed closely behind Dian Wei's charge.

Positioned Oneself in the Kill-ing Zone, Placed Oneself with no Escape Route

Once he returned to main camp, Cao Cao immediately ordered the siege to begin. House of Tian within Pu-yang had opened the east gate to let Cao's troops entered. However, Lu Bu was ahead of him. He had troops spread throughout the city in order to fight street-to-street. To raise troop morale, Cao Cao opted to use the strat-agem, Position Oneself In the Killing Zone In Order to Forge an Escape Route. He ordered to burn down the east gate so that there would be no retreat.

Chen Gong knew Cao Cao had insufficient force and often used sub-terfuge to distract his opponents. He recommended Lu Bu to concentrate on Qing Provincial troops at Cao Cao's left wing. Lack of sufficient training

With great shout, Dian Wei frighten Lu Bu troops so that Cao Cao could escape.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) and unfamiliar with street-to-street tactics, Qing Provincial troops retreat-ed. This caused a ripple effect within Cao's force. Cao Cao was forced to abandon his original plan and retreated.

In midst of confusion, an officer of Lu Bu had captured Cao Cao. Since he was wearing ordinary officer uniform, officer of Lu Bu asked,

“tells me where Cao Cao is and your life would be spared.”

Thinking quickly, Cao Cao pointed ahead and replied,

“in front of you where that man riding the yellow horse, he is Cao Cao!”

Hearing that, he let go of Cao Cao and pursued after the yellow horse.

When freed, Cao Cao immediately attempted to break through the burning east gate. His left hand was badly burned and nearly fell from his horse. Fortunately, his staff saw and helped him get back on his horse in order to continue his escape.

Cao Cao did not rest when he re-turned base. He personally greeted the returning troops. Then he ordered that siege engines to be made so that he could resume the siege.

Now Lu Bu was dumbfounded, it was obvious that he had won both battles. Yet, he looked more like a loser than Cao Cao. Cao's force had maintained initiatives nearly most of the time. Even Chen Gong was unsure of Cao Cao battle skills. He recom-mended to hold the city and not en-gaged enemy troops.

The standoff had lasted more than hundred days. Then lotus came and devoured crops. People were starving. Lu's troops have used up stock sup-plies and force to retreat from Pu-yang. And Cao Cao declared area

around Pu-yang to be disaster area and not safe to maintain troops. He led his troops back to Zhen-cheng in Septem-ber. Initially, Lu Bu moved to Cheng-shi. There, Lu Jin and his guerilla force harassed his force. Facing short sup-plies, Lu Bu moved further east to San-yang. There, he stationed his troops.

First Priority of an Army, Food

By mid-winter October, Yen Prov-ince suffered severe food shortage due to locust plague and nearly a year of war. Even Cao Cao had troubled ac-quired rations for his army. It nearly collapsed.

Yuan Shao had sent envoys to per-suade Cao Cao to submit his family to a city under Yuan Shao's control, in order, to better protect them. Facing the fact that he had lost control of Yen Province and his troops were starved, Cao Cao entertained strongly of that possibility.

Known for his long-range plan, Cheng Yu strongly opposed such plan. He requested an audience with Cao Cao and asked

"People said that General Cao is planned to have his family move to Yuan Shao as hos-tages. Is this true?"

Cao Cao, uncomfortably, replied,

"Our troops are starving... This is but a temporary situa-tion"

Cheng Yu argued,

"Is General Cao afraid of cur-rent development? Why do you have not thought this through? Yuan Shao was an ambitious man, but personal-ly, he is not good at making decision. This kind of people, are you, General Cao, sure

you want to subordinate un-der? General, you have the awe of dragon and tiger, how could you follow the footstep of both Peng Yue and Han Xin? Presently, Yen Province is in disarrayed, but we still maintain Zhen-cheng, Fan-cheng and Dong-a as our three important bases. We have troops of over ten thou-sand veterans. General, your ability, plus assistance from both Xun Yu and Cheng Yu, we can work as one to over-come all obstacles. We can become hegemony. Please, General, reconsider your op-tion."

Now, even his followers were willing to stay in spite of hardship, how could he do no less. Surely, there were others who advice him against subjugation to Yuan Shao. Cao Cao decided to maintain his independence and to face such hardship.

Out of this incident, Cao Cao learned two important lessons: politic is more important than military and supplies are more important than troops and arms. From then on, Cao Cao put efforts to use both militia and civilian to develop and to cultivate farms.

Lighting Strike

On the spring of Second Year of Peace & Prosperity (195 AD), Cao Cao decided to attack Lu Bu's troops stationed at Ding-Tao (modern day Shan-dong Ding-Tao county). The objective is to confuse Lu Bu's intelli-gence and also to nullify Lu Bu's horn tactic by attacking the other point. Alert to rapid movement of Cao's troops, the Grand Administrator of Ding-Tao was so frightened that he abandoned the city and fled south-

“General, you have the awe of dragon and tiger, how could you follow the footstep of both Peng Yue and Han Xin?”

Cheng Yu rallied Cao Cao at his hour of despair.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) ward. He tried to reset the defensive line at B?o-nan [City]. But Cao Cao was right behind him. There, at the east of B?o -nan, Cao Cao detected a supporting army has approaching. Cao Cao was waiting for this, he im-mediately send cavalry to ambush the approaching army. Lu's troops were driven off and forced to retreat.

Prior attacking Ding-Tao, Cao Cao already commanded Cao Ren to lead another force to take Gou-yang City. Since Lu Bu was focused on Cao Cao's movement, Gou-yang City was quickly taken over. Defending general, Liu He, was captured. Losing two cities, Lu Bu had to retreat fur-ther east.

When summer approaches, Lu Bu decided to counterstrike. Both Xue Lan and Lee Feng were ordered to lead troops to station in wilderness. Their objective is to draw Cao Cao's attention. Lu Bu and Chen Gong were so sure that Cao Cao would take the bait. Then Lu Bu would come in with his main force and crushed Cao Cao once and for all.

Instead, Cao Ren was sent to at-tack Xue Lan and Lee Feng. Cao Cao had suspected a trap and sent out mas-sive scouts to detect whereabouts of Lu Bu's troop movement. Once he found out Lu Bu was rapidly advanc-ing toward the battle and Chen Gong's main force was a day behind, Cao Cao was ecstatic. He acted quickly.

Lu Bu had assumed that Cao Cao was engaging with Xue Lan and Lee Feng. He never suspected that Cao Cao was ambushing him on route. The thing a rapidly advancing troop feared the most was being ambushed. In less than half an hour, Lu Bu's troops have been routed. Lu Bu fled. Cao Cao moved his force to where Cao Ren was fighting against Xue Lan and Lee Feng. Opposing army

was destroyed.

Cao's Empty City Scheme

Cao Cao expected Lu Bu to meet up with Chen Gong. Once they reor-ganized, they would attack again. Therefore, this is the place where the fate of Yen Proince is decided once and for all. He also calculated that it may be a prolong battle. Therefore, he dispersed troops to gather supplies while he led thousand auxiliary troops to shore up defense.

However, once Chen Gong learned of ambush, he felt they have to do something quick else it would make Lu Bu looked bad for deserting his men. So they continued to force-march and not bother with reorganiza-tion.

Cao Cao was surprise with the news of Lu Bu arrived so quickly. There was no way to beat him with only a thousand auxiliary troops. In a sudden inspiration, Cao Cao boldly decided to use the stratagem, Empty City Scheme. He ordered banners to be taken down; women visibly guarded the camp; and he personally led thousand auxiliary troops to stand uniformly at front of the camp to wait for the advancing army. Lu Bu and Chen Gong heard of Cao Cao's strange formation, they went to the front line to observe. Chen Gong saw a large field to the west of the camp and large forest at the south of the camp. He became suspicious of a trap. Since daylight is fading, and not to mention the fact that they have just arrived, they have to regroup and send out scouts to gather information.

Cao Cao had gained few precious moments and used them to call back as many troops as possible. Those returning troops were put into ambush site. At the opposing camp, Lu Bu learned that most of Cao Cao troops

were at large. And they were not able to return in time. When he saw Cao Cao had the same formation as early on, Lu Bu still assumed that Cao Cao must play the same trick. Smirk, he ordered to attack immediately.

Lu Bu sent light cavalry ahead to attack those auxiliary troops first. When they came close to the camp gate, Cao's hidden troops struck and routed light cavalry. Retreating cav-alry dispersed the formation of marching infantry. Cao Cao followed through with combined arms of cav-alry and infantry. Lu's troops col-lapsed. And only by returning to their camp could there any order restored.

Now, Lu Bu was truly frightened. He feared that when the remaining Cao's troops return, they would con-duct a large scale of annihilation. He knew his troops were no match against Cao's main force. Therefore, he abandoned his remaining force and fled in dark of the night.

In the aftermath of this battle, Cao Cao attacked and easily took over Ding-Tao and pacified all rebellious counties. Lu Bu and Chen Gong fi-nally gave up and fled to Liu Bei at Xu Province.

On October of that year, Cao Cao had officially become the Inspector of Yen Province.

On December of that year, Cao Cao attacked Yong-qiu which was held by Zhang Chao, younger brother of Zhang Mao. Zhang Chao commit-ted suicide. Since the siege of Yong-qiu took over five months, there was no mercy for the defenders. Zhang's family line was nearly extinct. Zhang Mao fled south to join up with Yuan Shu. Along the way, his troops mu-tined and killed him.

It took over a year to retake Yen Province. From this experience, Cao

And Lu Bu thought he was not that dumb enough to be fooled by the same trick twice.


Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) Cao knew that it would take more than just military might to conquer rest of country. And he learned how to better safeguard his base of opera-tion to prevent similar things hap-pened in near future.

CAO CAO Part II

Bielenstein, Hans, The bureaucracy of Han Times , Cambridge University Press, (c) 1980.

Chen, Wende, Record of Cao Cao's Bid for Hegemony Vol. 1, Yuan Liou

Publishing, (c) 1991.

Lin, Chuan, Political System During Late Han Dynasty & the Three King-doms Era , Revisiting the Three King-doms, issue 2, (c) 2002.

premacy. When Han dynasty came to power, he reversed the process till there were only two type of nobility: king and marquise. King owned sev-eral commanderies and marquise owned at least a prefecture. Gradually, Liu Bang started to remove other kings who did not have same family name as his. He passed down edict, no one but family of Liu can be king (fei liu shi zhe bu wang). By the time of Late Han dynasty, size of land allotted to nobles was even more greatly reduced.

When Cao Cao thought about re-placing Late Han Dynasty, he realized it would be hard to do so without pop-

ular support. Nearly four hundred years under Han Dynasty have condi-tioned people to reject any other sur-name family to be emperor or even a king. Therefore, he had to resurrect five level of nobility statue under Zhou dynasty and promoted himself to be duke. In 213 A.D., Cao Cao formally ascended to be Duke of Wei. He had more than ten commanderies allotted to him, which was more than any no-bles at that time. His intention was obvious. In 216 A.D., Cao Cao be-came King of Wei. He was only a step away from Emperor. In 220 A.D., after death of Cao Cao, his son, Cao Pi

became King of Wei. Since there is no direct relationship between Cao Pi and Late Han Emperor Xian, King of Wei had no qualm to force him to abdicate. Cao Pi became Emperor Wen of Wei Dynasty. This completed the transition from the Han Dynasty to the Wei Dy-nasty. And five emperors later, Wei Dynasty gave way to Jin Dynasty.

BibliographyBielenstein, Hans, Bureaucracy of Han Times , Cambridge University Press, 1980

Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynasty

Late Han Dynasty Bureaucracy

revisit the three kingdoms 02

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