Chapter 4, Falsely Issuing Military Orders
We shall comply with your command! The crowd naturally responded in unison.
"I have recently become convinced beyond doubt that the world is about to change," Gongsun Xun replied with a hint of emotion after regaining his composure. "From now on, everyone will have to fight for their lives. I am merely a minor official in the county today, and outside there are only a mere two thousand miscellaneous barbarians. If I cannot risk my life to fight under such circumstances, how can I expect to attain a high position in the future and sit securely in the city while others fight for me?"
Thus, things unexpectedly became smooth sailing
What if he still does not dare?" Gongsun Xun coldly pressed for an answer
If a fire breaks out in the enemy camp, first order the cavalry to leave the camp and follow up with the sweep, then under the pretext of providing support and protection, transfer the stationed troops from the left and right Yunlou and Meilou to guard the city, and send out two companies of elite infantry to assist outside the city
Gongsun Xun did not correct the other person's misunderstanding; he merely sighed softly and said: "A Yue, there is no need for further words. I understand your intentions, but my decision is made... As for you, be sure to keep this list well. Since I have promised to support someone’s wife, I must fulfill that promise. After the New Year, I will go to Luoyang. In case something urgent arises and I cannot explain, I will have to rely on you to speak to my mother about this."
Yes
In any case, once this matter is settled, Han Yigong will definitely not inexplicably run to the south to seek out Sun Laohu. At that time, as long as Gongsun Xun is willing to put in the effort, this person will eventually become someone within his own circle. Furthermore, whether to recommend him to others or to keep him close for self-protection, it will always be quite pleasant.
What?
It is said that Han Dang was also exceptionally bold. Upon hearing the other party's counter-pressure, he chose not to say much more. The two merely discussed the specific details of the raid again, and after finalizing their plans, they acted separately, each coordinating their efforts.
It is said that Han Dang was the first "hero of the Three Kingdoms" appointed by Gongsun Xu, but this statement is somewhat problematic. According to his mother, the cousin standing before him, who has not yet reached the age of five garments, is likely the first "general" he has subdued. However, the two have grown up together, and their brotherly bond is well established. Additionally, due to the financial difficulties of the Gongsun family, they relied heavily on the deliberate support from Gongsun Xu's mother. Over time, certain matters began to seem quite natural, and no one gave it much thought.
"Right here," Gongsun Xun replied coldly. "I will keep a close watch on the enemy camp, looking for opportunities to strike."
A Yue, naturally refers to Gongsun Yue
As Gongsun Xun previously mentioned, almost everyone in the Lu Long Pass knows that he is the nephew of the Chief Clerk Gongsun Zhao, the most trusted person of the Chief Clerk. Furthermore, those from the Liaoxi Commandery are aware that he holds an official position within the commandery and is also the only son of Gongsun Dajiang. Consequently, from the barracks to the armor and the allocation of horses, everything is facilitated. Although Han Dang has not been in the army for long, he has already won the hearts of the soldiers.
Of course, now is not the time to engage in battle. As the art of war states, a commander must not act impulsively in warfare
Thus, the two brothers temporarily parted ways at the end of the barracks. While the actions of Gongsun Yue remain unspoken, Gongsun Xun made his way up to the Lulong Tower, observing the Xianbei military camp outside.
Understood, Gongsun Yue replied with his head lowered. First, stabilize the situation with the paternal uncle (that is, the paternal cousin or uncle), so that he does not panic. Inform him that the current emperor has just come of age and is eager to achieve something in the border affairs. If he can behead over a hundred enemies, as the commander in the fortress, he will surely be promoted to a prominent position of a thousand stones.
It is said frankly that both the county and the clan are aware that his position was obtained through the support of his aunt, and that he has benefited from his mother's grace while leaving it to his son, which may lead to disdain from the people of the world
The time has come! At this moment, Gongsun Xun on the city tower suddenly opened his eyes and then slowly stood up while supporting himself with a long spear. "A Yue, go and tell those county soldiers to open the door!"
And if he succeeds, Han Dang will also have made contributions, which is actually not a problem. Because once he has made contributions, he will have a future in this locality, which is equivalent to being tied down here. Gongsun Xun can completely wait for two or three years, until he returns from Luoyang, and then gradually recruit and win him over under a different identity.
It is acceptable that my elder brother trusts Han, for he is indeed capable and can manage our father. However, he is truly timid... Yet, in the case of a night raid to kill the enemy, where the battle is fierce and perilous, you are a person with great prospects. Why must you take such personal risks? It would be better for me to go in your stead, allowing you to manage our uncle and command the army of Senai. Wouldn't that be a win-win situation?
"Very well." Gongsun Yue, left with no other choice, could only nod his head
The outdoor cold wind was even harsher, and the moonlight was completely absent. It seemed to be the perfect time for murder and arson. Gongsun Xun was in front, while Gongsun Yue followed behind. The two of them continued walking past the soldiers' barracks before finally lowering their voices to speak.
After waiting for a while and seeing that everyone was silent, Gongsun Xun immediately picked up the bamboo slips and stood up: "Since everyone has nothing to say, then Brother Yigong will keep watch here. I will go to see my uncle to submit the list and will return later... A Yue, come with me, as I have something to instruct you."
Gongsun Yue, who was standing by, immediately bowed his head to receive orders
Shh... Gongsun Xun suddenly made a very strange gesture, but everyone could see that it meant to be silent. "A secret order for a surprise attack, do not make noise, just understand. If your personal armor and weapons are inadequate, there are armors, bows, and crossbows in the room, feel free to take them. You all brought horses of different colors; I have arranged for black and yellow warhorses suitable for a night raid, which are now kept in the stable below, properly cared for by the laborers... If there is nothing else, please rest in this room and await my military orders."
It is as follows. In a spacious barrack beneath the Lulong Tower, Gongsun Xun finished recording the names of the soldiers and then set down the bamboo slips and ink. "My uncle has made up his mind. Tonight, with Han Dang and myself as the vanguards, we will lead the brave warriors to raid the camp. First, there will be silk, cloth, and provisions distributed according to the list to the families of the two or three individuals. If the plan succeeds, there will be generous rewards; if it fails, we will not abandon everyone. In short, the list is here, rewards for contributions and penalties for failures. Even in the event of death, my Anlihao and the Gongsun clan of Liaoxi will ensure that the government takes care of your wives... Do any of you have anything to say?"
Gongsun Yue immediately rose upon hearing this and followed his elder brother out, leaving Han Dang to comfort the more than thirty soldiers and guests.
Put this away, you should also change into your armor, and bring me my bow and spear armor. I will be waiting for you at the Lulong Tower
"Yes," Gongsun Yue replied with his head lowered. "Is it just my elder brother?"
Help me put on the armor
It is important to understand that his recent act of falsely transmitting military orders, in order to conspire with Han Dang for the purpose of raiding the camp, may appear to be broad-minded and full of heroic spirit, but internally it is filled with malice and selfishness
Is it right here
"Does Ah Yue still remember what I instructed?" Gongsun Xun was the first to speak
I appreciate A Yue's kindness. "Gong Sun Xun couldn't help but secretly sigh in his heart upon hearing these words. "It's just that..."
It is. Gongsun Yue bowed his head once again
And another reason ...! ... Although Gongsun Xun is reluctant to admit it, aside from the presence of Han Dang, the Duke of Han Yi, these Xianbei people before him are also blocking Gongsun Xun's path to promotion!
The cold wind on the Lu Long Tower is even more severe, and several soldiers from Liaoxi on night duty are huddled in the rooms on the tower. After several invitations to the nobles to enter were politely declined, they could only retreat.
In strict compliance with the orders, Han took the lead and assumed the role of the appointed commander to carry out the military orders
One can easily deduce that if the raid fails and one hastily retreats, then Han Dang will be utterly unable to establish himself in this Lu Long Pass. Apart from following Gongsun Xun to flee to Luoyang, is there any other option?
This is correct. Gongsun Xun took a deep breath against the cold wind. "Our uncle has never been someone useful to rely on since childhood. His elder brother died in a plague, and the clan had no choice but to bestow the title of Enmeng upon him. Not to mention his pursuit of fame and profit, the key issue is that he appears strong yet is timid, with a very small heart... Just scare him a little, and you can directly use his mouth to issue commands. Do you still remember my other arrangements?"
... ...
Isn't it he who has been cursing and complaining these days
However, Gongsun Xun looked down from the building against the cold wind, and the scene in the nearby Xianbei camp was quite different—perhaps due to the abundance of plundered goods, or perhaps the Xianbei's prolonged military suppression of the Han Dynasty over the past several years had instilled a significant sense of superiority in them. This group of Xianbei warriors was so audacious that they reveled throughout the night. Even at this moment, the camp was still brightly lit, and one could hear the raucous laughter carried by the wind, along with the cries of the captured Han people.
This is the most critical point. Gongsun Xun nodded and said, I have also confronted the Xianbei people multiple times alongside the troops in the commandery, and I am aware of some of their habits... Currently, in the Xianbei camp, there are not only soldiers but also captured Han people. If the infantry does not provide quick support, and if there are knowledgeable Xianbei nobles among them, equipped with light cavalry and strong bows, a counterattack could indeed lead to serious trouble
Slowly, it is hard to tell how much time has passed, but the lights of the enemy camp in the distance have finally begun to dim. The voices carried by the wind also start to fade away. From the vantage point above, one can even see several figures scattering around the large tent in the center where a fire pit is burning—this group of Xianbei people has caused a commotion for half the night and is finally exhausted and ready to return to rest.
Gongsun Yue lowered his head and thought for a moment: "Are you agitated by the matter concerning Brother Boguai? I know that after he suddenly became the beloved son-in-law of the governor, although you appeared happy on the surface, you were actually quite displeased inside... However, there is no need for you to be anxious. This time, by seeking a recommendation to study the classics in Luoyang, you will surely be able to surpass others in the future"
"What is it?" Gongsun Yue could not help but ask.
The poem states: "Rising with the spear while seated, slaying the enemy without regard for life"
Thus, Gongsun Xun completed his armor and did not return to the barracks. Instead, he faced the cold wind, propped his steel spear, and sat cross-legged on the Lulong Tower. Then, without uttering a word, he squinted his eyes and quietly gazed at the encampment of the Xianbei people, lost in thought.
However, to return to the point, at this moment, setting aside these calculations and utilitarian motives, Gongsun Xun clearly felt a primal impulse belonging to the men of the Han frontier stirring within him. He was now inexplicably eager to ride out beyond the frontier, draw his bow and wield his spear, to trample this camp and scatter this pack of barbarian dogs
To be honest, this situation evokes a peculiar emotion in Gongsun Xun, who usually conducts business with many Xianbei people alongside his mother
Brother, your armor, bow and arrows, and horse spear have all been brought here. At this moment, Gongsun Yue arrived as instructed, just as promised.