Chapter 15

Taishi Ci Fiercely Duels the Little Conqueror; Sun Ce Battles Yan Baihu

Now Zhang Fei drew his sword to cut his own throat. Xuande rushed forward, clasped him in his arms, snatched away the sword, and flung it to the ground, saying, “The ancients said: ‘Brothers are like hands and feet; wives and children are like clothing. Torn clothing can still be mended, but once hands or feet are severed, how can they be joined again?’ The three of us pledged brotherhood in the Peach Garden, asking not to be born on the same day, but only to die on the same day. Though we have now lost the city and our families, how could I bear to let a brother die midway through our course? Besides, the city was never mine to begin with. Though our families have fallen into Lü Bu’s hands, he will surely do them no harm, and we can still devise a plan to rescue them. One moment’s error on your part, worthy brother—how could it bring you to throw away your life so suddenly?” When he had finished, he wept aloud. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei were both moved to tears.

When Yuan Shu learned that Lü Bu had seized Xuzhou, he sent a messenger to Lü Bu with all speed, day and night, promising fifty thousand hu of grain, five hundred horses, ten thousand taels of gold and silver, and a thousand bolts of colored silk if he would join in attacking Liu Bei from both sides. Lü Bu was delighted and ordered Gao Shun to lead fifty thousand troops against Xuande’s rear. When Xuande received word of this, he took advantage of the dark rain to withdraw, abandoning Xuyi and heading east with the intention of taking Guangling. By the time Gao Shun’s army arrived, Xuande was already gone. Gao Shun met Ji Ling and at once demanded the goods that had been promised. Ji Ling said, “For now, sir, withdraw your army. Allow me to see my lord and discuss the matter with him.” Gao Shun then parted from Ji Ling, returned with his troops, and reported Ji Ling’s words in full to Lü Bu.

Lü Bu was still wavering when a letter suddenly arrived from Yuan Shu. Its meaning was: “Though Gao Shun has come, Liu Bei has not yet been eliminated. Wait until Liu Bei has been captured; only then will the promised goods be delivered.” Lü Bu angrily cursed Yuan Shu for breaking faith and meant to raise an army against him. Chen Gong said, “You must not. Yuan Shu holds Shouchun and has abundant troops and provisions; he cannot be treated lightly. Better to invite Xuande back to garrison Xiaopei and make him our supporting wing. On a future day, let Xuande serve as the vanguard. Then we may first take Yuan Shu and afterward Yuan Shao, and range unhindered across the realm.” Lü Bu accepted his counsel and sent a man bearing a letter to welcome Xuande back.

Meanwhile, Xuande had led his army eastward to take Guangling, but Yuan Shu raided his camp and destroyed more than half his troops. On his return, he happened to meet Lü Bu’s envoy, who presented the letter. Xuande was overjoyed. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei said, “Lü Bu is a man without honor. He cannot be trusted.” Xuande said, “Since he treats me with goodwill, how can I repay him with suspicion?” He then came to Xuzhou. Fearing that Xuande might harbor doubts, Lü Bu first sent his family back to him. Lady Gan and Lady Mi, on seeing Xuande, told him in full how Lü Bu had ordered soldiers to guard the gates of their residence and forbidden anyone to enter; he had also frequently sent gifts through his serving women, and they had never lacked for anything. Xuande said to Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, “I knew that Lü Bu would never harm my family.” He then entered the city to thank Lü Bu. Zhang Fei hated Lü Bu and refused to go with him, but escorted his two sisters-in-law ahead to Xiaopei.

Xuande entered Lü Bu’s presence and bowed in thanks. Lü Bu said, “I had no wish to seize the city. But your younger brother Zhang Fei relied on wine and killed men here, and I feared some disaster might occur; I came only to guard it.” Xuande said, “I have long wished to yield it to you, elder brother.” Lü Bu made a show of offering it back to Xuande. Xuande firmly declined and returned to garrison Xiaopei. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei remained indignant at heart. Xuande said, “We must bend ourselves and keep within our station while awaiting the time ordained by Heaven. We cannot contend with fate.” Lü Bu sent them grain, rice, silk, and cloth. From that time the two houses were reconciled, and nothing more need be said of it.

Meanwhile, Yuan Shu held a great banquet for his officers and soldiers at Shouchun. A report came that Sun Ce had returned victorious from his campaign against Lu Kang, Administrator of Lujiang. Yuan Shu summoned Sun Ce, who bowed below the hall. When Yuan Shu had finished asking about his hardships, he ordered him to sit at the side and join the feast. After his father’s death, Sun Ce had withdrawn to live south of the Yangzi, honoring the worthy and humbling himself before men of ability. Later, because Tao Qian was at odds with Sun Ce’s maternal uncle Wu Jing, Administrator of Danyang, Sun Ce moved his mother and household to Qu’e, while he himself entered Yuan Shu’s service. Yuan Shu was very fond of him and often sighed, “If only I had a son like young Sun, I could die without regret!” He appointed Sun Ce Colonel Who Cherishes Righteousness and sent him with troops against Jing County, where Grand Commander Zu Lang defeated him. Seeing Sun Ce’s courage, Yuan Shu then sent him against Lu Kang, and now he had returned victorious once more.

When the banquet ended that day, Sun Ce returned to his camp. Yuan Shu’s manner toward him at the feast had been exceedingly arrogant, and his heart was oppressed. He went out to walk beneath the moon in the central courtyard. Reflecting that his father Sun Jian had been such a hero, while he himself had fallen so low, he could not help bursting into loud sobs. Suddenly a man entered from outside and laughed heartily. “Bofu, why are you like this? When your honored father was alive, he often employed me. If there is some matter you cannot resolve, why not ask me? Why weep alone?” Sun Ce looked at him. He was Zhu Zhi, styled Junli, a native of Guzhang in Danyang and a former officer under Sun Jian. Sun Ce dried his tears and invited him to sit. “I weep only because I fear I cannot carry on my father’s purpose.” Zhu Zhi said, “Why not tell Yuan Gonglu that you wish to borrow troops and go to Jiangdong—outwardly in the name of rescuing Wu Jing, but in truth to build a great enterprise? Why remain so long trapped beneath another man?”

While they were still discussing this, a man suddenly entered and said, “I already know what you gentlemen are planning. I have a hundred strong and seasoned men under my command, whom I can lend for a time to help Bofu.” Sun Ce looked at him. He was Lü Fan, styled Ziheng, a native of Xiyang in Runan and one of Yuan Shu’s advisers. Sun Ce was delighted and invited him to sit and join their deliberations. Lü Fan said, “I fear only that Yuan Gonglu will refuse to lend you troops.” Sun Ce said, “I possess the Imperial Jade Seal, left by my late father. I shall offer it as collateral.” Lü Fan said, “Gonglu has long desired to obtain it. If you pledge it to him, he will certainly provide troops.”

The three settled their plan. The next day, Sun Ce entered Yuan Shu’s presence, bowed weeping, and said, “I have been unable to avenge my father. Now my maternal uncle Wu Jing is being hard pressed by Liu Yao, Inspector of Yangzhou, while my aged mother and family are all in Qu’e and will surely come to harm. I dare ask to borrow several thousand of your mighty troops so that I may cross the river, rescue them from peril, and visit my mother. Fearing that my illustrious lord may not trust me, I have brought the jade seal left by my late father and will pledge it for the time being.” On hearing of the jade seal, Yuan Shu took it and examined it. Greatly delighted, he said, “I do not covet your jade seal. For now, I shall merely keep it here. I will lend you three thousand troops and five hundred horses. Once the region is pacified, you must return at once. Your present rank is too low for you to wield great authority. I shall memorialize the throne to appoint you Colonel Who Breaks the Charge and General Who Exterminates Bandits. Choose a fixed day, take command of the troops, and depart.”

Sun Ce bowed in thanks. He then chose a day to raise his forces and set out with Zhu Zhi, Lü Fan, and his father’s veteran officers Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, and the others. When he reached Liyang, an army approached. At its head rode a man of distinguished bearing and graceful charm, handsome in feature and elegant in manner. On seeing Sun Ce, he dismounted and bowed. Sun Ce recognized him as Zhou Yu, styled Gongjin, a native of Shu County in Lujiang. When Sun Jian had campaigned against Dong Zhuo, he had moved his household to Shu County. Zhou Yu and Sun Ce were the same age and shared a deep friendship, so they had pledged themselves as brothers. Sun Ce was two months older, and Zhou Yu treated him as an elder brother. Zhou Yu’s uncle, Zhou Shang, was Administrator of Danyang, and Zhou Yu was now on his way to visit him when he encountered Sun Ce there.

Sun Ce was overjoyed to see Zhou Yu and confided his inmost feelings to him. Zhou Yu said, “I am willing to serve with all the strength of a dog or horse and join you in pursuing this great enterprise.” Sun Ce said with delight, “Now that I have Gongjin, the great enterprise will succeed.” He had Zhou Yu meet Zhu Zhi, Lü Fan, and the others. Zhou Yu said to Sun Ce, “If my elder brother wishes to accomplish great things, does he also know of the Two Zhangs in Jiangdong?” Sun Ce asked, “Who are the ‘Two Zhangs’?” Zhou Yu said, “One is Zhang Zhao of Pengcheng, styled Zibu; the other is Zhang Hong of Guangling, styled Zigang. Both possess the talent to order Heaven and weave the pattern of Earth. Because they fled the disorders, they now live here in seclusion. Why does my elder brother not invite them into his service?” Sun Ce was delighted and immediately sent men with gifts to engage them, but both declined to come. Sun Ce then visited their homes in person. He took great pleasure in speaking with them and pressed his invitation earnestly, until both agreed. Sun Ce appointed Zhang Zhao Chief Clerk, concurrently General of the Household Who Pacifies the Army, and Zhang Hong Adviser and Colonel of Correct Deliberation. Together they discussed an attack on Liu Yao.

Liu Yao, styled Zhengli, was a native of Mouping in Donglai and a kinsman of the Han imperial house. He was a nephew of Grand Commandant Liu Chong and a younger brother of Liu Dai, Inspector of Yanzhou. Formerly Inspector of Yangzhou, he had been stationed at Shouchun, but Yuan Shu had driven him across the river into Jiangdong, and so he had come to Qu’e. When he now heard that Sun Ce’s army was approaching, he hurriedly assembled his commanders for consultation. His officer Zhang Ying said, “I will lead an army to garrison Niuzhu. Even if the enemy has a million troops, not one will be able to approach.” Before he had finished, a man below the tent cried loudly, “I volunteer to serve as vanguard of the advance!” Everyone looked and saw Taishi Ci, a native of Huang County in Donglai. After raising the siege of Beihai, Taishi Ci had come to visit Liu Yao, who retained him among his attendants. That day, hearing that Sun Ce had arrived, he volunteered to serve as vanguard. Liu Yao said, “You are still young and cannot yet serve as a senior commander. Remain at my side and await orders.” Displeased, Taishi Ci withdrew.

Zhang Ying led his troops to Niuzhu, where a hundred thousand measures of grain were stored in the depot. Sun Ce arrived with his army, and Zhang Ying came out to meet him. The two forces confronted each other on the flats of Niuzhu. Sun Ce rode forward, and Zhang Ying reviled him. Huang Gai at once rode out to engage Zhang Ying. They had fought only a few bouts when Zhang Ying’s army suddenly fell into disorder. A report came that someone had set fire to the camp. Zhang Ying hurriedly turned his army back, while Sun Ce led his troops forward and fell upon them in the confusion. Zhang Ying abandoned Niuzhu and fled toward the deep mountains.

The men who had set fire behind the camp were two valiant officers. One was Jiang Qin, styled Gongyi, a native of Shouchun in Jiujiang; the other was Zhou Tai, styled Youping, a native of Xiacai in Jiujiang. Both had been caught in the disorders of the age and had gathered followers on the Yangzi River, living by plunder. They had long heard that Sun Ce was a hero of Jiangdong who could attract the worthy and receive men of ability. For that reason, they had specially brought more than three hundred followers to join him. Sun Ce was delighted and appointed them Colonels of the Van. He took possession of the grain and military equipment in the Niuzhu depot, accepted the surrender of more than four thousand soldiers, and advanced to Shenting.

Zhang Ying returned in defeat to Liu Yao, who angrily intended to behead him. The advisers Ze Rong and Xue Li persuaded Liu Yao to spare him, and he was sent to station troops at Lingling City against the enemy. Liu Yao himself led an army to encamp south of Shenting Ridge, while Sun Ce encamped north of it. Sun Ce asked the local people, “Is there a temple to Emperor Guangwu near these mountains?” They answered, “There is a temple on the ridge.” Sun Ce said, “Last night I dreamed that Emperor Guangwu summoned me to his presence. I must go and pray there.” Chief Clerk Zhang Zhao said, “You must not. Liu Yao’s camp lies south of the ridge. What if there are troops in ambush?” Sun Ce said, “The divine powers protect me. What have I to fear?” He put on his armor, took up his spear, mounted his horse, and rode from the camp with Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, Jiang Qin, Zhou Tai, and the others, thirteen horsemen in all. They climbed the ridge and reached the temple, where they burned incense. Having dismounted and paid reverence, Sun Ce went forward, knelt, and prayed: “If I, Sun Ce, can establish an enterprise in Jiangdong and revive the foundations laid by my late father, I shall rebuild this temple and offer sacrifices in every season.”

When he had finished praying, Sun Ce left the temple and mounted his horse. Looking back at his commanders, he said, “I wish to cross the ridge and reconnoiter Liu Yao’s camp and stockades.” All the commanders told him it was too dangerous. Sun Ce refused to listen and rode with them to the crest, gazing southward over the villages and woods. Scouts posted along the hidden paths had already sped the news to Liu Yao. Liu Yao said, “This must be Sun Ce’s scheme to lure us out. He must not be pursued.” Taishi Ci leaped up eagerly and cried, “If we do not seize Sun Ce now, what better time do we await?” Without waiting for Liu Yao’s command, he put on his armor, mounted his horse, took up his spear, and rode from the camp, shouting, “Let every man with courage follow me!” None of the commanders moved. Only one junior officer said, “Taishi Ci is truly a fierce commander! I will go to his aid!” He spurred his horse and rode after him. All the other commanders laughed.

Sun Ce watched for a long while before at last turning his horse back. As he was crossing the ridge, he suddenly heard a shout from above: “Sun Ce, do not flee!” He turned and saw two horsemen racing down the slope. Sun Ce drew up all thirteen riders in formation. Holding his spear crosswise, he sat his horse at the foot of the ridge and waited. Taishi Ci shouted, “Which one is Sun Ce?” Sun Ce replied, “Who are you?” The answer came, “I am Taishi Ci of Donglai, and I have come expressly to capture Sun Ce!” Sun Ce laughed. “I am the man. Both of you may come against me alone—I do not fear you! If I feared you, I would not be Sun Bofu!” Taishi Ci said, “Even if all of you come at once, I will not fear you!” Leveling his spear, he urged his horse straight at Sun Ce. Sun Ce raised his spear to meet him. Their horses crossed, and they fought for fifty bouts without victory or defeat. Cheng Pu and the others marveled inwardly.

Seeing not the slightest opening in Sun Ce’s spearwork, Taishi Ci feigned defeat and drew Sun Ce into pursuit. But instead of taking the old path back over the ridge, he turned around behind the mountain. Sun Ce chased after him, shouting, “A man who runs is no hero!” Taishi Ci thought to himself, “This fellow has twelve followers, while I am alone. Even if I take him alive, the others will snatch him away. I must draw him farther, where they cannot find us; then I can act.” So he fought as he retreated. Sun Ce had no intention of letting him go and pursued him all the way to level ground. Taishi Ci wheeled his horse and fought again, and they battled for another fifty bouts. Sun Ce thrust with his spear. Taishi Ci dodged and clamped it under his arm. Taishi Ci thrust in turn; Sun Ce likewise dodged and clamped his spear. Both pulled with all their strength, and both tumbled from their horses. The horses ran off no one knew where. Casting aside their spears, the two grappled and fought hand to hand until their battle robes were torn to shreds. Sun Ce was quicker and wrenched the short halberd from Taishi Ci’s back, while Taishi Ci tore the helmet from Sun Ce’s head. Sun Ce stabbed at Taishi Ci with the halberd, and Taishi Ci used the helmet to block and parry.

Suddenly shouts rose behind them: Liu Yao’s supporting force had arrived, more than a thousand strong. Sun Ce was in a desperate position, but Cheng Pu and the other twelve riders also charged onto the scene. Only then did Sun Ce and Taishi Ci release each other. Taishi Ci obtained a horse from among the troops, recovered his spear, mounted, and returned to the fight. Cheng Pu had caught Sun Ce’s horse, so Sun Ce also recovered his spear and remounted. Liu Yao’s thousand troops became entangled in battle with Cheng Pu and the twelve riders, and the struggle wound its way to the foot of Shenting Ridge. Amid a fresh roar of voices, Zhou Yu arrived with an army. Liu Yao himself led his main force down from the ridge. It was nearing dusk when violent wind and rain suddenly broke, and both sides withdrew their troops.

The next day, Sun Ce led his army before Liu Yao’s camp, and Liu Yao brought out his troops to meet him. When the two formations had been drawn up, Sun Ce displayed Taishi Ci’s short halberd on the point of his spear before the lines and ordered his soldiers to shout, “Had Taishi Ci not fled so quickly, he would already have been stabbed to death!” Taishi Ci likewise displayed Sun Ce’s helmet before the lines and ordered his soldiers to shout, “Sun Ce’s head is already here!”

Both armies raised a clamor, this side boasting of victory, the other proclaiming its prowess. Taishi Ci rode out, demanding to settle victory or defeat with Sun Ce, and Sun Ce was about to respond. Cheng Pu said, “There is no need for my lord to spend his strength. I shall capture him myself.” Cheng Pu rode before the lines. Taishi Ci said, “You are no match for me. Tell Sun Ce to ride out!” Cheng Pu flew into a rage and charged straight at Taishi Ci with leveled spear. Their horses crossed, and they had fought for thirty bouts when Liu Yao urgently sounded the gong to recall his army. Taishi Ci said, “I was just about to capture the rebel commander. Why recall the troops?” Liu Yao said, “A report says that Zhou Yu has led an army in a surprise attack on Qu’e. Chen Wu, styled Zilie, a native of Songzi in Lujiang, gave Zhou Yu aid and let him in. The foundation of my house is lost, and we cannot remain here long. We must hurry to Moling, join the forces of Xue Li and Ze Rong, and bring them swiftly to our support.”

Taishi Ci followed Liu Yao in retreat. Sun Ce did not pursue but halted his troops. Chief Clerk Zhang Zhao said, “Zhou Yu has seized Qu’e behind them, so their army has no heart for further battle. Tonight is the perfect time to raid their camp.” Sun Ce agreed. That night he divided his army into five columns and drove them forward in a sweeping assault. Liu Yao’s army suffered a crushing defeat, and its men scattered in every direction. Unable to withstand the enemy alone, Taishi Ci took a dozen riders and fled through the night to Jing County.

Sun Ce had now also gained Chen Wu as an aide. Chen Wu stood seven chi tall, with a yellow face and red eyes, and his appearance was extraordinary. Sun Ce esteemed him greatly, appointed him a colonel, and made him vanguard in the attack on Xue Li. Chen Wu led a dozen riders in a sudden charge into the enemy formation and took more than fifty heads. Xue Li shut the gates and dared not come out.

While Sun Ce was attacking the city, a messenger suddenly reported that Liu Yao had joined Ze Rong and gone to seize Niuzhu. Sun Ce was enraged and personally led his main army straight toward Niuzhu. Liu Yao and Ze Rong rode out to meet him. Sun Ce said, “Now that I have arrived, why do you not surrender?” A man behind Liu Yao leveled his spear and rode forward. It was his officer Yu Mi. Before they had fought three bouts, Sun Ce captured him alive and turned his horse back toward his own formation. Liu Yao’s officer Fan Neng, seeing Yu Mi taken, leveled his spear and gave chase. Just as the spear was about to strike Sun Ce between the shoulders, soldiers in Sun Ce’s formation shouted, “Someone is attacking from behind!” Sun Ce looked back and suddenly saw Fan Neng’s horse bearing down on him. He gave a tremendous roar, loud as thunder. Fan Neng was so terrified that he toppled backward from his horse, split his skull, and died. Reaching his standard, Sun Ce threw Yu Mi to the ground, only to find that the man had already been crushed to death beneath his arm. In a single instant, Sun Ce had crushed one commander to death and roared another to death. From that time onward, everyone called him the “Little Hegemon-King.”

That day Liu Yao’s army suffered a crushing defeat, and more than half his men and horses surrendered to Sun Ce. Sun Ce beheaded over ten thousand. Liu Yao and Ze Rong fled to Yuzhang to seek refuge with Liu Biao. Sun Ce turned his army back and resumed the attack on Moling. He personally went to the edge of the moat to summon Xue Li and urge him to surrender. From the wall, someone secretly loosed a treacherous arrow. It struck Sun Ce squarely in the left thigh, and he toppled from his horse. His commanders hurriedly rescued him, carried him back to camp, pulled out the arrow, and dressed the wound with medicine. Sun Ce ordered the army to spread a false report that its commander had been struck by an arrow and killed. The army raised the wail of mourning, struck camp, and withdrew as one.

When Xue Li heard that Sun Ce was dead, he mustered the troops within the city that very night and sallied out with the fierce officers Zhang Ying and Chen Heng in pursuit. Suddenly ambush troops rose on every side. Sun Ce rode at their head and shouted, “Young Sun is here!” The enemy troops were all terrified. They cast down their spears and swords and bowed to the ground. Sun Ce ordered that not one of them be killed. Zhang Ying turned his horse to flee, but Chen Wu killed him with a single thrust of his spear. Chen Heng was shot dead by an arrow from Jiang Qin. Xue Li died amid the rout. Sun Ce entered Moling and restored order among its people, then moved his army toward Jing County to capture Taishi Ci.

Taishi Ci had recruited more than two thousand strong and able men, who, together with his original troops, were preparing to avenge Liu Yao. Sun Ce and Zhou Yu discussed a plan to capture Taishi Ci alive. Zhou Yu ordered attacks against three sides of the county town, leaving only the eastern gate open for escape. Twenty-five li from the town, one army was to lie in ambush on each of three roads. By the time Taishi Ci reached that point, both men and horses would be exhausted, and he would certainly be captured. Most of the troops Taishi Ci had recruited were men from the hills and wilds, unfamiliar with discipline. The walls of Jing County were not particularly high. That night, Sun Ce ordered Chen Wu to strip to a short tunic, take up a sword, and be the first to climb the wall and start a fire. Seeing flames rise from the wall, Taishi Ci mounted and fled through the eastern gate, with Sun Ce leading troops in pursuit behind him.

As Taishi Ci fled, the troops behind pursued him for thirty li and then ceased the chase. Taishi Ci traveled fifty li, until men and horses alike were exhausted. Suddenly shouts rose from among the reeds. Taishi Ci hurried to escape, but trip ropes were drawn tight from both sides. His horse was brought down, and Taishi Ci was captured alive and escorted to the main camp. Learning that Taishi Ci had arrived, Sun Ce personally came out of the camp, ordered the soldiers to disperse, untied the prisoner with his own hands, and clothed him in his own brocade robe. Then he invited him into the camp and said, “I know that Ziyi is a true man of honor. Liu Yao is a fool who could not employ you as a senior commander, and so brought this defeat upon himself.”

Seeing that Sun Ce treated him with exceptional generosity, Taishi Ci asked leave to surrender. Sun Ce took his hand and said with a smile, “When we fought at Shenting, if you had captured me, would you have killed me?” Taishi Ci smiled. “That cannot be known.” Sun Ce laughed heartily, invited him into the command tent, gave him the place of honor, and held a banquet for him. Taishi Ci said, “Lord Liu has only just been defeated, and his soldiers have lost heart. I wish to go in person and gather the remnant of his forces, so that they may assist my illustrious lord. I do not know whether you can trust me.” Sun Ce rose and thanked him. “That is truly what I desire. Let us make an agreement: tomorrow at noon, I shall await your return.” Taishi Ci gave his word and departed. The commanders said, “Once Taishi Ci leaves, he will certainly not return.” Sun Ce said, “Ziyi is a man of good faith and honor. He will never betray me.” None of them believed it.

The next day, a pole was set up at the camp gate to mark the sun’s shadow. Just as noon approached, Taishi Ci arrived at the camp with more than a thousand men. Sun Ce was overjoyed, and everyone acknowledged his insight into character. Sun Ce now gathered a force of tens of thousands, descended through Jiangdong, brought peace to the people, and showed compassion to the multitude. Countless men came to join him. The people of Jiangdong all called him Young Sun. At the mere news that Young Sun’s army was approaching, they would lose heart and flee; yet when Sun Ce’s troops arrived, he allowed no one to plunder, and not even the chickens or dogs were disturbed. The people rejoiced and brought cattle and wine to the camp to reward the army. Sun Ce repaid them with gold and silk, and cries of joy filled the countryside. Those among Liu Yao’s former troops who wished to enlist were permitted to do so; those who did not were given rewards and sent back to farm. Throughout the lands south of the river, everyone praised and looked up to him. In this way his military power grew greatly. Sun Ce welcomed his mother, his uncle, and his younger brothers back to Qu’e. He ordered his brother Sun Quan and Zhou Tai to guard Xuancheng, then led his army south to take Wu Commandery.

At that time, Yan Baihu occupied Wu Commandery and styled himself the Virtuous King of Eastern Wu. He had sent subordinate commanders to hold Wucheng and Jiaxing. When Yan Baihu heard that Sun Ce’s army was approaching, he ordered his younger brother Yan Yu to lead out troops, and the two forces met at Maple Bridge. Yan Yu sat his horse on the bridge with his saber held crosswise. When the report reached the central command, Sun Ce wished to ride out. Zhang Hong remonstrated: “The lives of the entire army depend upon its chief commander. You should not lightly engage a petty bandit. I beg you, General, to value yourself.” Sun Ce thanked him. “Your words are firm as metal and stone. Yet I fear that unless I personally brave arrows and stones, the officers and soldiers will not risk their lives.” He then sent Han Dang out to fight.

By the time Han Dang reached the bridge, Jiang Qin and Chen Wu had already taken a small boat along the riverbank and fought their way across. A storm of arrows felled the troops on shore, and the two men sprang ashore and began cutting them down. Yan Yu retreated. Han Dang led his troops in a direct assault as far as the Chang Gate, and the bandits withdrew into the city. Sun Ce divided his forces to advance by land and water together, surrounding the city of Wu. After three days under siege, no one came out to fight. Sun Ce led his army outside the Chang Gate and called upon the defenders to submit. A subordinate commander on the wall braced the parapet beam with his left hand while pointing down with his right and shouting abuse. From horseback, Taishi Ci took up his bow and drew an arrow. Looking back at the officers around him, he said, “Watch me strike that fellow’s left hand!”

Before the words had left his mouth, the bowstring sounded. The arrow struck exactly where he had said, piercing the commander’s left hand and pinning it fast to the parapet beam. Everyone who saw it, above and below the wall, shouted acclaim.

The defenders helped the wounded man down from the wall. Yan Baihu was appalled. “How can we oppose an army that has such men?” He therefore discussed seeking peace. The next day, he sent Yan Yu out of the city to meet Sun Ce. Sun Ce invited Yan Yu into his tent and offered him wine. When the wine had taken effect, he asked, “What does your elder brother intend?” Yan Yu said, “He wishes to divide Jiangdong equally with the General.” Sun Ce flew into a rage. “How dare such rats claim equality with me!” He ordered Yan Yu beheaded. Yan Yu drew his sword and rose, but Sun Ce swept out his own sword and struck him down with a single blow. His head was cut off and sent into the city. Knowing he could not withstand the enemy, Yan Baihu abandoned the city and fled.

Sun Ce advanced in pursuit. Huang Gai took Jiaxing, and Taishi Ci took Wucheng; several prefectures were pacified. Yan Baihu fled toward Yuhang, plundering along the road, but Ling Cao, a local man, led the villagers against him and defeated him. Yan Baihu fled toward Kuaiji. Ling Cao and his son came to meet Sun Ce, who appointed Ling Cao Colonel of the Campaign Retinue and had him cross the river with the army. Yan Baihu gathered his bandits and deployed them around the Xijin ferry. Cheng Pu engaged him and again inflicted a crushing defeat, pursuing him through the night to Kuaiji.

Wang Lang, Administrator of Kuaiji, wished to lead troops to Yan Baihu’s aid. Suddenly a man stepped forward and said, “You must not. Sun Ce commands an army of benevolence and justice, while Baihu leads a violent and cruel rabble. You should instead capture Baihu and present him to Sun Ce.” Wang Lang looked at the speaker. He was Yu Fan, styled Zhongxiang, a native of Yuyao in Kuaiji and presently an officer of the commandery. Wang Lang angrily rebuked him, and Yu Fan withdrew with a deep sigh. Wang Lang then led his army to join Yan Baihu, and together they arrayed their troops on the plain of Shanyin. When the two formations had been drawn up, Sun Ce rode forward and said to Wang Lang, “I have raised an army of benevolence and justice to bring peace to the lands of the Zhe River. Why do you aid a bandit?” Wang Lang reviled him: “Is there no limit to your greed? Having taken Wu Commandery, you now seek to annex my territory by force! Today I have come expressly to avenge the Yan clan!”

Sun Ce was furious and was about to engage when Taishi Ci rode out ahead of him. Wang Lang spurred his horse, flourished his saber, and fought Taishi Ci. After only a few bouts, Wang Lang’s commander Zhou Xin charged out to assist him. From Sun Ce’s formation, Huang Gai raced forward and engaged Zhou Xin. The drums of both sides thundered as they fought with desperate fury. Suddenly Wang Lang’s rear formation fell into disorder: a column of troops had swept around behind it. Wang Lang was shocked and hurriedly turned his horse to meet them. It was Zhou Yu and Cheng Pu, leading troops in an oblique charge, attacking from front and rear. Outnumbered, Wang Lang could not withstand them. With Yan Baihu and Zhou Xin, he cut a bloody path into the city, raised the drawbridge, and barred the gates fast.

Sun Ce’s main army pursued its advantage to the foot of the walls. He deployed his troops and attacked all four gates. Inside the city, Wang Lang saw that Sun Ce was pressing the siege with great urgency and wished to lead out his troops for one final battle to the death. Yan Baihu said, “Sun Ce’s army is overwhelmingly strong. You should dig deep moats, raise high ramparts, hold the walls firmly, and refuse to come out. In less than a month, his provisions will be exhausted, and he will withdraw of his own accord. Then we can fall on him in his weakness and defeat him without a battle.” Wang Lang accepted this counsel and held Kuaiji City firmly without coming out.

Sun Ce attacked for several days in succession without success, then consulted his commanders. Sun Jing said, “Wang Lang relies on his strong defenses and holds the city; it will be difficult to take quickly. Most of Kuaiji’s money and grain is stored at Chadu, several dozen li from here. Better to lead troops there and seize it first. This is what is meant by attacking where the enemy is unprepared and appearing where he does not expect you.” Sun Ce was delighted. “Uncle’s masterstroke is enough to break the enemy!” He immediately ordered fires lit at every gate and made a great display of banners and standards, setting up a feigned army to sow doubt. Then, during the night, he lifted the siege and marched south. Zhou Yu came forward and said, “Once my lord’s great army moves, Wang Lang will certainly leave the city in pursuit. We can defeat him with an unexpected force.” Sun Ce said, “I have already made preparations. The city will be taken tonight.” He then ordered the army to set out.

When Wang Lang was told that Sun Ce’s army had withdrawn, he personally led his men up to the enemy watchtower to observe. Seeing fires burning together beneath the walls and the banners and standards still standing in perfect order, he hesitated. Zhou Xin said, “Sun Ce has gone. He has set up this ruse only to make us doubt. We should send troops out to strike him.” Yan Baihu said, “Sun Ce may have gone to Chadu. I will take my troops and pursue him with General Zhou.” Wang Lang said, “Chadu is where my grain is stored and must indeed be guarded. Lead your troops ahead; I will follow in support.” Yan Baihu and Zhou Xin led five thousand soldiers out of the city in pursuit. Near the beginning of the first night watch, more than twenty li from the city, a drum suddenly sounded in the thick woods and torches blazed on every side. Yan Baihu was horrified and reined in his horse to turn back. A commander blocked the road before him. In the firelight he saw that it was Sun Ce. Zhou Xin flourished his saber and rode to meet him, but Sun Ce killed him with a single thrust of his spear. All the remaining troops surrendered. Yan Baihu cut a bloody path through them and fled toward Yuhang.

When Wang Lang learned that his forward troops had already been defeated, he dared not reenter the city but led his followers away in flight toward the edge of the sea. Sun Ce brought his main army back, took the city on the strength of his victory, and brought peace to the people. Before a day had passed, a man appeared before Sun Ce’s army bearing Yan Baihu’s head as an offering. Sun Ce examined him: he stood eight chi tall, with a square face and broad mouth. Asked his name, he proved to be Dong Xi, styled Yuandai, a native of Yuyao in Kuaiji. Sun Ce was delighted and appointed him Major of a Separate Command. From that time the whole eastern route was pacified. Sun Ce ordered his uncle Sun Jing to guard it, appointed Zhu Zhi Administrator of Wu Commandery, and withdrew his army to Jiangdong.

Meanwhile, Sun Quan and Zhou Tai were guarding Xuancheng when mountain bandits suddenly rose in revolt and attacked from every side. It was deep into the night, and there was no time to resist. Zhou Tai lifted Sun Quan onto a horse. The bandits attacked with sabers. Bare to the waist and fighting on foot, Zhou Tai wielded his blade and killed more than ten of them. Then a bandit galloped up behind him and drove his spear straight at Zhou Tai. Zhou Tai seized the spear, dragged the man from his horse, took both spear and horse, and cut a bloody path through the enemy, rescuing Sun Quan. The remaining bandits fled far away. Zhou Tai had suffered twelve spear wounds. The wounds swelled, and his life hung by a thread.

When Sun Ce heard of it, he was greatly alarmed. Dong Xi, who stood below his tent, said, “Once, while fighting sea raiders, I received several spear wounds. Yu Fan, a worthy officer of Kuaiji, recommended a physician, and I recovered within half a month.” Sun Ce said, “Can this Yu Fan be Yu Zhongxiang?” Dong Xi replied, “He is.” Sun Ce said, “He is a worthy man. I must employ him.” He therefore ordered Zhang Zhao and Dong Xi to go together and invite Yu Fan into his service. When Yu Fan arrived, Sun Ce treated him with exceptional honor and appointed him Officer of Merit. He then spoke of his need for a physician. Yu Fan said, “The man is Hua Tuo, styled Yuanhua, a native of Qiao County in the principality of Pei. He is truly the divine physician of our age. I shall bring him here.”

Within a few days, Yu Fan brought him. Sun Ce saw a man with the youthful face of a child and the white hair of a crane, whose air of transcendence seemed to belong beyond the mortal world. He treated Hua Tuo as an honored guest and asked him to examine Zhou Tai’s wounds. Hua Tuo said, “This is an easy matter.” He administered medicine, and within a month Zhou Tai had recovered. Sun Ce was delighted and rewarded Hua Tuo generously. He then advanced his troops and exterminated the mountain bandits. All Jiangnan was pacified. Sun Ce assigned officers and troops to guard every strategic pass. At the same time, he wrote a memorial reporting his achievements to the imperial court, established friendly relations with Cao Cao, and sent a man with a letter to Yuan Shu to recover the jade seal.

Yuan Shu secretly harbored the desire to proclaim himself emperor. He therefore replied with evasions and refused to return the seal. He urgently assembled Chief Clerk Yang Dajiang, Commander-in-Chief Zhang Xun, Ji Ling, Qiao Rui, the senior generals Lei Bo and Chen Lan, and more than thirty others, and said to them, “Sun Ce borrowed my troops and horses to launch his enterprise. Now he has gained all the lands of Jiangdong, yet he gives no thought to repaying the source of his success and instead demands the seal from me. This is grossly discourteous. By what plan may we deal with him?” Chief Clerk Yang Dajiang said, “Sun Ce holds the strategic defenses of the great river, and his troops are elite and his provisions abundant. He cannot yet be attacked. For now, we should first campaign against Liu Bei, avenging the hatred caused when he attacked us without cause, and afterward it will not be too late to deal with Sun Ce. I offer a plan by which Liu Bei may be captured this very day.” Truly:

He does not go to Jiangdong to hunt the tiger and leopard,But comes instead to Xuzhou to battle the flood-dragon.

What the plan might be will be revealed in the next chapter.

Taishi Ci Fiercely Duels the Little Conqueror; Sun Ce Battles Yan Baihu

Now Zhang Fei drew his sword and was about to cut his own throat. Xuande rushed forward, embraced him, seized the sword, and threw it to the ground, saying, “The ancients said: ‘Brothers are like hands and feet; wives and children are like clothing. Torn clothing can still be mended, but when hands or feet are severed, how can they be joined again?’ The three of us swore brotherhood in the Peach Garden. We did not ask to be born on the same day, but only wished to die on the same day. Though we have now lost the city and our families, how could I bear to let a brother die halfway through our course? Besides, the city was never mine to begin with. Though our families have fallen into Lü Bu’s hands, he certainly will not harm them, and we can still devise a plan to rescue them. This was only a momentary mistake on your part, worthy brother. Why should you so suddenly wish to throw away your life?” When he had finished speaking, he wept aloud. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei were both moved to tears.

Meanwhile, when Yuan Shu learned that Lü Bu had seized Xuzhou, he sent a messenger to Lü Bu by forced travel through the night, promising him fifty thousand hu of grain, five hundred horses, ten thousand taels of gold and silver, and one thousand bolts of colored satin if he would join in attacking Liu Bei. Lü Bu was delighted and ordered Gao Shun to lead fifty thousand troops in an attack on Xuande’s rear. When Xuande received this news, he withdrew his army under cover of rain and darkness, abandoned Xuyi, and fled, intending to seize Guangling in the east. By the time Gao Shun’s army arrived, Xuande had already gone. Gao Shun met Ji Ling and at once demanded the promised goods. Ji Ling said, “For now, sir, withdraw your army. Allow me to see my lord and discuss the matter with him.” Gao Shun then parted from Ji Ling and returned with his army. He saw Lü Bu and gave a full account of what Ji Ling had said.

Lü Bu was still hesitating when a letter suddenly arrived from Yuan Shu. The meaning of the letter was: “Although Gao Shun came, Liu Bei has not yet been eliminated. Wait until Liu Bei has been captured, and only then will I send the promised goods.” Lü Bu angrily cursed Yuan Shu for breaking faith and wanted to raise an army against him. Chen Gong said, “You must not. Yuan Shu occupies Shouchun and has many troops and abundant grain. He must not be treated lightly. It would be better to invite Xuande back to garrison Xiaopei and make him our support. On a later day, have Xuande serve as the vanguard. Then first take Yuan Shu and afterward Yuan Shao, and you will be able to range freely across the realm.” Lü Bu followed his advice and sent a man with a letter inviting Xuande to return.

Meanwhile, Xuande led his army east to seize Guangling, but Yuan Shu raided his camp, and he lost more than half his troops. On his return, he happened to meet Lü Bu’s envoy, who presented the letter. Xuande was delighted. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei said, “Lü Bu is a man without honor. He cannot be trusted.” Xuande said, “Since he now treats me with goodwill, why should I suspect him?” He accordingly came to Xuzhou. Fearing that Xuande might have doubts, Lü Bu first had his family returned to him. Ladies Gan and Mi saw Xuande and gave him a full account: Lü Bu had ordered soldiers to guard the gates of their residence and had forbidden anyone to enter. He had also frequently sent them things through his serving women, and they had never lacked anything. Xuande said to Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, “I knew that Lü Bu would certainly not harm my family.” He then entered the city to thank Lü Bu. Zhang Fei hated Lü Bu and refused to go with him. Instead, he escorted his two sisters-in-law to Xiaopei ahead of them.

Xuande entered, saw Lü Bu, bowed, and thanked him. Lü Bu said, “I did not wish to seize the city. Your younger brother Zhang Fei relied on wine and killed men here, and I feared some disaster might occur, so I came only to guard it.” Xuande said, “I have long wished to yield it to you, elder brother.” Lü Bu pretended to offer it back to Xuande. Xuande firmly declined and returned to garrison Xiaopei. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei were resentful at heart. Xuande said, “We must humble ourselves and keep to our proper place while awaiting Heaven’s time. We cannot struggle against fate.” Lü Bu sent them grain, rice, and bolts of satin. From then on, the two houses were on friendly terms, and nothing further need be said of it here.

Meanwhile, Yuan Shu held a great banquet for his officers and soldiers at Shouchun. A man reported that Sun Ce had defeated Lu Kang, Administrator of Lujiang, and returned victorious. Yuan Shu summoned Sun Ce, who bowed below the hall. After asking about his exertions, Yuan Shu ordered him to sit as an attendant and join the banquet. After his father’s death, Sun Ce had withdrawn to live south of the Yangzi, treating worthy men with respect and humbling himself before scholars. Later, because Tao Qian was at odds with Sun Ce’s maternal uncle, Wu Jing, Administrator of Danyang, Sun Ce moved his mother and the rest of his family to Qu’e, while he himself went to serve Yuan Shu. Yuan Shu greatly loved him and often sighed, “If I had a son like young Sun, what regret would I have even if I died?” He therefore appointed Sun Ce Commandant Who Cherishes Righteousness and sent him with troops to attack Jing County, where Grand Master Zu Lang won. Seeing Sun Ce’s courage, Yuan Shu later sent him to attack Lu Kang, and now he had again returned victorious.

When the banquet ended that day, Sun Ce returned to his camp. He had found Yuan Shu’s treatment of him at the feast extremely arrogant, and he was depressed. He therefore walked in the moonlight through the central courtyard. Thinking that his father Sun Jian had been such a hero, while he himself had now fallen so low, he could not help bursting into loud sobs. Suddenly, a man entered from outside and laughed loudly, saying, “Bofu, why are you behaving like this? When your honored father was alive, he often employed me. If you have some matter you cannot decide, why do you not ask me instead of weeping by yourself?” Sun Ce looked at him. He was Zhu Zhi, courtesy name Junli, a native of Guzhang in Danyang and formerly an officer under Sun Jian. Sun Ce wiped away his tears, invited him to sit, and said, “I am weeping only because I bitterly regret that I cannot carry on my father’s ambition.” Zhu Zhi said, “Why do you not tell Yuan Gonglu that you wish to borrow troops and go to Jiangdong, outwardly claiming that you mean to rescue Wu Jing but actually planning a great enterprise? Why remain trapped for so long beneath another man?”

While they were discussing this, a man suddenly entered and said, “I already know what you gentlemen are planning. I have one hundred strong and capable men under my command and will lend Bofu a helping hand for the time being.” Sun Ce looked at the man. He was Lü Fan, courtesy name Ziheng, a native of Xiyang in Runan and one of Yuan Shu’s advisers. Sun Ce was delighted and invited him to sit and join the discussion. Lü Fan said, “I fear only that Yuan Gonglu will refuse to lend you troops.” Sun Ce said, “I have the Imperial Jade Seal left by my late father. I will offer it as security.” Lü Fan said, “Gonglu has wanted it for a long time! If you pledge it to him, he will certainly provide troops.”

The three settled their plan. The next day, Sun Ce entered to see Yuan Shu and bowed tearfully, saying, “I have been unable to avenge my father. Now my maternal uncle Wu Jing is being pressed by Liu Yao, Inspector of Yangzhou. My aged mother and the rest of my family are all in Qu’e and will certainly be harmed. I dare ask to borrow several thousand of your mighty troops so that I may cross the river, rescue them from danger, and visit my family. Fearing that my enlightened lord may not trust me, I have brought the Jade Seal left by my late father and will temporarily pledge it as security.” When Yuan Shu heard that he had the Jade Seal, he took it and examined it. Greatly delighted, he said, “I do not want your Jade Seal. For now, I shall merely keep it here. I will lend you three thousand troops and five hundred horses. Once you have pacified the region, you must return quickly. Your present rank is low, and it will be difficult for you to wield great authority. I shall recommend you as Commandant Who Breaks the Charge and General Who Destroys Bandits. Choose a fixed day, take command of the troops, and depart.”

Sun Ce bowed his thanks. He then took command of the troops and horses, bringing Zhu Zhi, Lü Fan, and his father’s former officers Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, and others with him, and chose a day to march. When he reached Liyang, he saw an army approaching. At its head was a man of graceful bearing and outstanding appearance. When the man saw Sun Ce, he dismounted and bowed. Sun Ce looked at him. He was Zhou Yu, courtesy name Gongjin, a native of Shucheng in Lujiang. When Sun Jian had campaigned against Dong Zhuo, he had moved his family to Shucheng. Zhou Yu and Sun Ce were the same age and shared a very close friendship, so they had sworn to be brothers. Sun Ce was two months older than Zhou Yu, and Zhou Yu treated him as an elder brother. Zhou Yu’s uncle, Zhou Shang, was Administrator of Danyang. Zhou Yu was now on his way to visit him and happened to meet Sun Ce there.

Sun Ce was overjoyed to see Zhou Yu and told him his deepest feelings. Zhou Yu said, “I am willing to give you the service of a dog or horse so that we may together pursue a great enterprise.” Sun Ce said happily, “Now that I have Gongjin, the great enterprise will succeed.” He then had Zhou Yu meet Zhu Zhi, Lü Fan, and the others. Zhou Yu said to Sun Ce, “Elder brother, since you wish to accomplish a great enterprise, do you also know of the Two Zhangs in Jiangdong?” Sun Ce asked, “Who are the ‘Two Zhangs’?” Zhou Yu said, “One is Zhang Zhao of Pengcheng, courtesy name Zibu. The other is Zhang Hong of Guangling, courtesy name Zigang. Both possess talent able to order Heaven and Earth, but because they are avoiding the disorder, they live here in seclusion. Why do you not invite them into your service?” Sun Ce was delighted and immediately sent men with gifts to invite them, but both declined to come. Sun Ce therefore went to their homes in person. He was greatly pleased by his conversations with them and pressed them earnestly to serve him. Both agreed. Sun Ce appointed Zhang Zhao Chief Clerk, concurrently General of the Household Who Pacifies the Army, and appointed Zhang Hong as Adviser and Commandant of Correct Deliberations. They then discussed an attack on Liu Yao.

Now Liu Yao, courtesy name Zhengli, was a native of Mouping in Donglai. He too was a relative of the Han imperial house, a nephew of Grand Commandant Liu Chong and a younger brother of Liu Dai, Inspector of Yanzhou. He had formerly served as Inspector of Yangzhou and had been stationed at Shouchun, but Yuan Shu drove him across the river into Jiangdong, and he therefore came to Qu’e. When he now heard that Sun Ce’s army was approaching, he urgently gathered his officers to discuss the matter. His subordinate general Zhang Ying said, “I will lead an army to garrison Niuzhu. Even if he has a million troops, they will be unable to come near.” Before he had finished speaking, a man below the command tent shouted, “I am willing to serve as vanguard of the advance force.” Everyone looked at him. He was Taishi Ci, a native of Huang County in Donglai. After lifting the siege of Beihai, Taishi Ci had come to see Liu Yao, who kept him under his command. That day, when he heard that Sun Ce had arrived, he offered to serve as vanguard. Liu Yao said, “You are still young and cannot yet serve as a great general. Remain at my side and obey my commands.” Taishi Ci withdrew in displeasure.

Zhang Ying led his troops to Niuzhu and stored one hundred thousand measures of grain in the supply depot. Sun Ce arrived with his army, and Zhang Ying came out to meet him. The two armies met on the flats at Niuzhu. Sun Ce rode forward, and Zhang Ying cursed him loudly. Huang Gai rode out and fought Zhang Ying. They had exchanged only a few bouts when Zhang Ying’s army suddenly fell into great disorder, and a report came that someone had set fire to the camp. Zhang Ying hurriedly turned his army back. Sun Ce led his troops forward and took advantage of the situation to fall on them. Zhang Ying abandoned Niuzhu and fled toward the deep mountains.

The men who had set fire behind the camp were two valiant officers. One was Jiang Qin, courtesy name Gongyi, a native of Shouchun in Jiujiang. The other was Zhou Tai, courtesy name Youping, a native of Xiacai in Jiujiang. Both had lived through the disorder of the age, gathered followers on the Yangzi River, and made their living by plunder. They had long heard that Sun Ce was a hero of Jiangdong who could recruit worthy men and accept scholars, so they had specially brought more than three hundred followers to join him. Sun Ce was delighted and appointed them Commandants Before the Chariot. He took the grain and military equipment in the Niuzhu supply depot, as well as more than four thousand surrendered soldiers, and then advanced toward Shenting.

Meanwhile, Zhang Ying returned in defeat to Liu Yao, who angrily intended to behead him. The advisers Ze Rong and Xue Li urged Liu Yao to spare him, and he was sent to garrison Lingling City against the enemy. Liu Yao personally led troops to make camp south of Shenting Ridge, while Sun Ce made camp north of the ridge. Sun Ce asked the local people, “Is there a temple to Emperor Guangwu of Han near this mountain?” The local people replied, “There is a temple on the ridge.” Sun Ce said, “Last night I dreamed that Emperor Guangwu summoned me to meet him. I must go and pray there.” Chief Clerk Zhang Zhao said, “You must not. Liu Yao’s camp lies south of the ridge. What will you do if there are troops in ambush?” Sun Ce said, “A divine being protects me. What have I to fear?” He put on his armor, took up his spear, mounted his horse, and led Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, Jiang Qin, Zhou Tai, and others, making thirteen horsemen altogether, out of the camp and up the ridge. They reached the temple and burned incense. After dismounting and paying their respects, Sun Ce went forward, knelt, and prayed: “If I, Sun Ce, can establish an enterprise in Jiangdong and restore the foundation laid by my late father, I shall rebuild this temple and offer sacrifices here in all four seasons.”

After praying, he left the temple and mounted his horse. Looking back at his officers, he said, “I wish to cross the ridge and inspect Liu Yao’s camp and defenses.” All the officers said that he must not. Sun Ce refused to listen and went up the ridge with them to look south over the villages and woods. A small force watching the road had already rushed a report to Liu Yao. Liu Yao said, “This must be Sun Ce’s plan to lure us out. We must not pursue him.” Taishi Ci leaped up eagerly and said, “If we do not capture Sun Ce now, what time are we waiting for?” Without waiting for Liu Yao’s command, he put on his armor, mounted his horse, took up his spear, and rode out of camp, shouting, “All who have courage, follow me!” None of the officers moved. Only one young officer said, “Taishi Ci is truly a fierce general! I can help him!” He spurred his horse and went with him. All the other officers laughed.

Sun Ce watched for a long while before finally turning his horse back. Just as he was crossing the ridge, he heard a shout from above: “Sun Ce, do not run!” Sun Ce looked back and saw two horses racing down the ridge. He drew up his thirteen horsemen together. With his spear held crosswise, Sun Ce sat on his horse below the ridge and waited. Taishi Ci shouted, “Which one is Sun Ce?” Sun Ce asked, “Who are you?” The man answered, “I am Taishi Ci of Donglai, and I have come especially to capture Sun Ce!” Sun Ce laughed and said, “I am he. Both of you may attack me together, though I am only one man. I do not fear you! If I feared you, I would not be Sun Bofu!” Taishi Ci said, “Even if all of you attack me together, I will not be afraid!” He urged his horse forward, leveled his spear, and charged straight at Sun Ce. Sun Ce raised his spear and met him. Their horses crossed, and they fought for fifty bouts without either gaining the advantage. Cheng Pu and the others secretly marveled at them.

Taishi Ci saw that Sun Ce’s spear work showed not the slightest opening, so he pretended to lose and feigned defeat, drawing Sun Ce after him. Instead of returning up the ridge by the old road, Taishi Ci turned around the back of the mountain. Sun Ce pursued him and shouted, “A man who runs away is no hero!” Taishi Ci thought to himself, “This fellow has twelve followers, while I am alone. Even if I capture him alive, the others will take him from me. I must draw him farther away, until this fellow has nowhere to find help, and then I can act.” He therefore fought as he retreated. Sun Ce refused to let him go and pursued him all the way to open ground. Taishi Ci wheeled his horse and fought again, and they exchanged another fifty bouts. Sun Ce thrust with his spear. Taishi Ci dodged and caught the spear under his arm. Taishi Ci then thrust with his own spear. Sun Ce also dodged and caught it under his arm. Both pulled with all their strength, and they tumbled from their horses together. The horses ran off no one knew where. The two men abandoned their spears, seized each other, and wrestled, tearing their battle robes to shreds. Sun Ce’s hands were quicker, and he snatched the short halberd from Taishi Ci’s back. Taishi Ci in turn snatched the helmet from Sun Ce’s head. Sun Ce stabbed at Taishi Ci with the halberd, while Taishi Ci used the helmet to block it.

Suddenly, shouts arose behind them. Liu Yao’s relief force had arrived, numbering about one thousand men. Sun Ce was in a desperate position, but Cheng Pu and the other twelve horsemen also charged up, and only then did Sun Ce and Taishi Ci release each other. Taishi Ci obtained a horse from among the troops, retrieved his spear, mounted, and returned to the fight. Cheng Pu had recovered Sun Ce’s horse, so Sun Ce too retrieved his spear and mounted. Liu Yao’s force of more than one thousand men fought in confusion with Cheng Pu and the other twelve horsemen, battling their way in a winding course to the foot of Shenting Ridge. Amid rising battle cries, Zhou Yu arrived with his army. Liu Yao personally led his main force down from the ridge to attack. It was near dusk when a violent storm suddenly broke, and both sides withdrew their armies.

The next day, Sun Ce led his army before Liu Yao’s camp, and Liu Yao brought out his troops to meet him. Once the two battle lines were formed, Sun Ce displayed Taishi Ci’s short halberd on the point of his spear before the armies and ordered his soldiers to shout, “If Taishi Ci had not run so quickly, he would already have been stabbed to death!” Taishi Ci likewise displayed Sun Ce’s helmet before the armies and ordered his soldiers to shout, “Sun Ce’s head is already here!”

The two armies raised their cries, one side boasting of victory and the other proclaiming its strength. Taishi Ci rode out, wishing to settle victory and defeat with Sun Ce, and Sun Ce was about to ride forward. Cheng Pu said, “There is no need to trouble my lord. I will capture him myself.” Cheng Pu rode before the battle line. Taishi Ci said, “You are no match for me. Have Sun Ce ride out!” Cheng Pu was furious and charged straight at Taishi Ci with leveled spear. Their horses crossed, and they fought for thirty bouts. Liu Yao suddenly sounded the gong to recall his army. Taishi Ci said, “I was just about to capture the rebel general. Why recall the army?” Liu Yao said, “A man reports that Zhou Yu has led troops in a surprise attack and seized Qu’e. Chen Wu, courtesy name Zilie, a native of Songzi in Lujiang, helped Zhou Yu enter it. The foundation of my house is already lost, and we cannot remain here long. We must hurry to Moling, join the troops of Xue Li and Ze Rong, and bring them quickly to our support.”

Taishi Ci followed Liu Yao in retreat. Sun Ce did not pursue but halted his troops. Chief Clerk Zhang Zhao said, “Zhou Yu has seized Qu’e from the enemy, so they have no desire to continue fighting. Tonight is the right time to raid their camp.” Sun Ce agreed. That night, he divided his army into five columns and drove forward in a great advance. Liu Yao’s army suffered a crushing defeat, and its men scattered in every direction. Taishi Ci could not resist alone. Taking more than ten horsemen, he rode through the night to Jing County.

Sun Ce had also gained the support of Chen Wu. The man stood seven chi tall, with a yellow face and red eyes, and had a strange appearance. Sun Ce greatly respected and loved him, appointed him a commandant, and made him vanguard in the attack on Xue Li. Chen Wu led more than ten horsemen in a charge into the enemy formation and cut off more than fifty heads. Xue Li shut his gates and did not dare come out.

While Sun Ce was attacking the city, someone suddenly reported that Liu Yao had joined forces with Ze Rong and was going to seize Niuzhu. Sun Ce was furious and personally led his main army straight toward Niuzhu. Liu Yao and Ze Rong rode out to meet him. Sun Ce said, “Now that I have arrived, why do you not surrender?” A man behind Liu Yao leveled his spear and rode out. It was his subordinate general Yu Mi. He fought Sun Ce for fewer than three bouts before Sun Ce captured him alive, turned his horse, and rode back toward his own line. Liu Yao’s general Fan Neng saw that Yu Mi had been captured and pursued Sun Ce with leveled spear. Just as the spear was about to strike Sun Ce in the back, the soldiers in Sun Ce’s formation shouted, “Someone is attacking you from behind!” Sun Ce turned his head and suddenly saw Fan Neng’s horse approaching. He gave a great shout, loud as a thunderclap. Fan Neng was so terrified that he pitched backward from his horse, struck his head, and died. Sun Ce reached the commanding standard and threw down Yu Mi, who had already been crushed to death beneath his arm. In a single instant he had crushed one general to death and shouted another to death. From then on, everyone called Sun Ce the “Little Conqueror.”

That day, Liu Yao’s army suffered a great defeat, and more than half his men and horses surrendered to Sun Ce. Sun Ce beheaded more than ten thousand men. Liu Yao and Ze Rong fled to Yuzhang to seek refuge with Liu Biao. Sun Ce turned his army back and again attacked Moling. He personally went to the edge of the city moat and called on Xue Li to surrender. From the city, someone secretly loosed an arrow, which struck Sun Ce squarely in the left thigh and knocked him from his horse. His officers hurriedly rescued him, carried him back to camp, pulled out the arrow, and applied medicine for weapon wounds. Sun Ce ordered the army to spread the false report that its commander had been struck by an arrow and died. The army raised the wail of mourning, pulled up camp, and marched away together.

When Xue Li heard that Sun Ce was dead, he brought the troops out of the city during the night and pursued with the fierce generals Zhang Ying and Chen Heng. Suddenly, ambush troops rose on every side. Sun Ce rode at their head and shouted, “Young Sun is here!” The enemy troops were all terrified. They threw down their spears and swords and bowed on the ground. Sun Ce ordered that not one of them be killed. Zhang Ying turned his horse and fled, but Chen Wu killed him with a single spear thrust. Jiang Qin shot Chen Heng dead with an arrow. Xue Li died amid the disordered army. Sun Ce entered Moling and brought peace and order to its inhabitants. He then moved his army to Jing County to capture Taishi Ci.

Meanwhile, Taishi Ci had recruited more than two thousand strong and capable men, who joined the troops already under his command. He was preparing to avenge Liu Yao. Sun Ce and Zhou Yu discussed a plan to capture Taishi Ci alive. Zhou Yu ordered attacks on three sides of the county seat, leaving only the eastern gate open for escape. Twenty-five li from the city, he placed an army in ambush on each of three roads. When Taishi Ci reached that place, his men and horses would be exhausted, and he would certainly be captured. Most of the troops recruited by Taishi Ci were country people from the hills and wilderness and knew nothing of military discipline. The walls of Jing County were not very high. At night, Sun Ce ordered Chen Wu to dress in short clothing and carry a sword. He was the first to climb the wall and set fire to the city. When Taishi Ci saw fire rising on the walls, he mounted his horse and fled through the eastern gate, while Sun Ce led troops in pursuit behind him.

As Taishi Ci fled, the pursuing army followed for thirty li and then stopped. Taishi Ci rode on for fifty li, by which time both men and horses were exhausted. Suddenly, shouts arose among the reeds. Taishi Ci urgently tried to flee, but ropes for tripping horses came from both sides at once and brought down his horse. Taishi Ci was captured alive and escorted to the main camp. When Sun Ce learned that Taishi Ci had arrived, he personally came out of the camp, ordered the soldiers to disperse, untied Taishi Ci with his own hands, put his own brocade robe on him, and invited him into the camp. He said, “I know that Ziyi is a true man of honor. Liu Yao was a fool who could not employ you as a great general, and that brought about this defeat.”

Seeing that Sun Ce treated him with such generosity, Taishi Ci asked permission to surrender. Sun Ce took his hand and said with a smile, “When we fought at Shenting, if you had captured me, would you have harmed me?” Taishi Ci smiled and said, “That cannot be known.” Sun Ce laughed loudly, invited him into the command tent, gave him the highest seat, and held a banquet in his honor. Taishi Ci said, “Lord Liu has only recently been defeated, and his soldiers have lost heart. I wish to go myself and gather the remaining men so that they may help my enlightened lord. I do not know whether you can trust me.” Sun Ce rose and thanked him, saying, “This is truly what I desire. Let us now agree that you will return tomorrow at noon.” Taishi Ci promised and departed. The officers said, “Now that Taishi Ci has gone, he certainly will not return.” Sun Ce said, “Ziyi is a man of good faith and righteousness. He will certainly not betray me.” None of them believed it.

The next day, they raised a pole at the camp gate to watch the sun’s shadow. Just as noon approached, Taishi Ci arrived at the camp with more than one thousand men. Sun Ce was delighted. Everyone admired Sun Ce’s ability to judge men. Sun Ce then gathered an army of tens of thousands and moved down into Jiangdong, bringing peace to the people and showing compassion to the masses. Countless people came to join him. The people of Jiangdong all called him Young Sun. Merely hearing that Young Sun’s army was coming, they would lose courage and flee. But when Sun Ce’s army arrived, he did not permit a single man to plunder. Not even the chickens or dogs were alarmed. The people were all delighted and brought cattle and wine to the camp to reward the army. Sun Ce repaid them with gold and silk, and joyful cries filled the countryside. Those from Liu Yao’s former army who wished to serve were allowed to do so, while those who did not wish to be soldiers were given rewards and sent home to farm. All the people south of the Yangzi looked up to him and praised him. His military power therefore grew very great. Sun Ce welcomed his mother, his uncles, and all his younger brothers back to Qu’e. He ordered his younger brother Sun Quan and Zhou Tai to guard Xuancheng, while he himself led troops south to take Wu Commandery.

At that time, Yan Baihu occupied Wu Commandery and called himself the Virtuous King of Eastern Wu. He had sent subordinate generals to guard Wucheng and Jiaxing. When Yan Baihu heard that day that Sun Ce’s army was approaching, he ordered his younger brother Yan Yu to lead out troops, and the armies met at Maple Bridge. Yan Yu sat his horse on the bridge with his sword held crosswise. When someone reported this to the central army, Sun Ce was about to ride out. Zhang Hong advised him, “The commander’s life is the life on which all three armies depend. You should not lightly engage a petty bandit. I beg you, General, to value yourself.” Sun Ce thanked him and said, “Your words, sir, are as firm as metal and stone. But I fear that if I do not personally face arrows and stones, the officers and soldiers will not risk their lives.” He then sent Han Dang out on horseback.

By the time Han Dang reached the bridge, Jiang Qin and Chen Wu had already taken small boats along the riverbank and fought their way past the bridge. A storm of arrows shot down the troops on the bank, and the two men leaped ashore and cut into them. Yan Yu retreated. Han Dang led the army in a direct assault as far as Chang Gate, and the bandits withdrew into the city. Sun Ce divided his troops and advanced by both land and water, surrounding the city of Wu. After three days under siege, no one came out to fight. Sun Ce led his army outside Chang Gate and called on the defenders to surrender. A deputy general on the wall braced the protective beam with his left hand and pointed down with his right, cursing loudly. Taishi Ci took his bow and an arrow while still on horseback and said to the officers around him, “Watch me strike this fellow’s left hand!”

Before he had finished speaking, the bowstring sounded. The arrow struck exactly where he had said, pierced the general’s left hand, and pinned it firmly to the protective beam. Everyone who saw it, both on and below the wall, cheered.

The others helped the man down from the wall. Yan Baihu was greatly alarmed and said, “Their army has a man like this. How can we oppose them?” He therefore discussed seeking peace. The next day, he sent Yan Yu out of the city to see Sun Ce. Sun Ce invited Yan Yu into his tent and gave him wine. When they had drunk deeply, Sun Ce asked, “What does your elder brother intend?” Yan Yu said, “He wishes to divide Jiangdong equally with the general.” Sun Ce was furious and said, “How dare vermin like you claim equality with me!” He ordered Yan Yu beheaded. Yan Yu drew his sword and rose, but Sun Ce swung his sword and struck him down at once. His head was cut off and sent into the city. Yan Baihu knew he could not withstand the enemy, so he abandoned the city and fled.

Sun Ce advanced in pursuit. Huang Gai attacked and took Jiaxing, while Taishi Ci attacked and took Wucheng, and several prefectures were pacified. Yan Baihu fled to Yuhang, plundering along the road. A local man named Ling Cao led the people of his district against him and defeated him, and Yan Baihu fled toward Kuaiji. Ling Cao and his son came to welcome Sun Ce. Sun Ce appointed Ling Cao Commandant Who Accompanies the Campaign and then led the army across the river with him. Yan Baihu gathered bandits and deployed them at the Xijin crossing. Cheng Pu fought them and again defeated them badly, pursuing them through the night as far as Kuaiji.

Wang Lang, Administrator of Kuaiji, wanted to lead troops to rescue Yan Baihu. Suddenly, a man stepped forward and said, “You must not. Sun Ce commands an army of humanity and righteousness, while Baihu leads a violent and cruel mob. You should instead capture Baihu and present him to Sun Ce.” Wang Lang looked at him. He was Yu Fan, courtesy name Zhongxiang, a native of Yuyao in Kuaiji, then serving as an officer of the commandery. Wang Lang angrily rebuked him, and Yu Fan sighed deeply and left. Wang Lang then led his troops to join Yan Baihu, and together they formed their battle line in the countryside around Shanyin. When the two formations faced each other, Sun Ce rode forward and said to Wang Lang, “I have raised an army of humanity and righteousness to bring peace to the region of the Zhe River. Why are you helping a bandit?” Wang Lang cursed him, saying, “Is there no limit to your greed? Having already taken Wu Commandery, you now intend forcibly to annex my territory! Today I have come especially to avenge the Yan family!”

Sun Ce was furious and was about to engage when Taishi Ci rode out ahead of him. Wang Lang spurred his horse, brandished his sword, and fought Taishi Ci. After only a few bouts, Wang Lang’s general Zhou Xin charged out to help him. Huang Gai raced from Sun Ce’s formation and intercepted Zhou Xin in combat. The drums on both sides thundered as the armies fought fiercely. Suddenly, Wang Lang’s rear formation fell into disorder as a body of troops swept in from behind. Wang Lang was greatly alarmed and hurriedly turned his horse to meet them. It was Zhou Yu and Cheng Pu, leading troops in a slanting charge and attacking from front and rear. Outnumbered and unable to resist, Wang Lang, Yan Baihu, and Zhou Xin cut a bloody path and escaped into the city. They raised the drawbridge and shut the gates securely.

Sun Ce’s main army took advantage of the situation and pursued them to the city walls. He deployed his troops and attacked all four gates. Inside the city, Wang Lang saw that Sun Ce was pressing the attack fiercely and wanted to lead out the troops again for a battle to the death. Yan Baihu said, “Sun Ce’s army is extremely powerful. You should dig deep ditches, raise high ramparts, hold the defenses firmly, and refuse to come out. In less than a month, his army will exhaust its grain and withdraw of its own accord. Then we can take advantage of its weakness, fall upon it, and defeat it without a battle.” Wang Lang followed his advice and held Kuaiji firmly without coming out.

Sun Ce attacked for several days without success and then discussed the matter with his officers. Sun Jing said, “Wang Lang relies on his strong defenses and holds the city, which will be difficult to take quickly. Most of Kuaiji’s money and grain is stored at Zhadu, several tens of li from here. It would be better to send troops and seize that place first. This is what is meant by attacking where the enemy is unprepared and appearing where he does not expect you.” Sun Ce was delighted and said, “Uncle, this excellent plan is enough to defeat the bandits!” He immediately ordered fires lit at every gate, with a great display of banners to create the false appearance of troops. Then he lifted the siege during the night and withdrew south. Zhou Yu came forward and said, “Once my lord’s main army begins to move, Wang Lang will certainly come out of the city in pursuit. We can defeat him with a surprise force.” Sun Ce said, “I have already made preparations. The city will be taken tonight.” He then ordered the army to march.

Meanwhile, when Wang Lang heard that Sun Ce’s army had withdrawn, he personally led his men up the enemy watchtower to observe. Seeing fires burning together below the city and the banners still in perfect order, he hesitated. Zhou Xin said, “Sun Ce has gone. He has set up this display only to make us doubt. We should send troops out to attack him.” Yan Baihu said, “Sun Ce may be going to Zhadu. I will lead my troops after him with General Zhou.” Wang Lang said, “Zhadu is where I store my grain, so it must indeed be defended. Lead the troops ahead, and I will follow in support.” Yan Baihu and Zhou Xin led five thousand troops out of the city in pursuit. Near the beginning of the first night watch, when they were more than twenty li from the city, a drum suddenly sounded in the dense forest and torches blazed all at once. Yan Baihu was greatly alarmed and reined in his horse to flee. A general blocked the road ahead. In the firelight, Yan Baihu saw that it was Sun Ce. Zhou Xin brandished his sword and rode to meet him, but Sun Ce killed him with a single spear thrust. All the remaining troops surrendered. Yan Baihu cut a bloody path through them and fled toward Yuhang.

When Wang Lang learned that his forward force had been defeated, he did not dare return to the city. He led his followers away and fled to a remote corner of the seacoast. Sun Ce brought back his main army, seized the city in the wake of his victory, and pacified the people. Before another day had passed, a man came before Sun Ce’s army and presented Yan Baihu’s head. Sun Ce looked at him. He stood eight chi tall, with a square face and broad mouth. Asked his name, he proved to be Dong Xi, courtesy name Yuandai, a native of Yuyao in Kuaiji. Sun Ce was pleased and appointed him Major of a Separate Command. From then on, all the eastern routes were pacified. Sun Ce ordered his uncle Sun Jing to guard the region, appointed Zhu Zhi Administrator of Wu Commandery, and withdrew his army to Jiangdong.

Meanwhile, Sun Quan and Zhou Tai were guarding Xuancheng when mountain bandits suddenly rose in secret and attacked from all sides. It was deep in the night, and there was no time to resist. Zhou Tai took Sun Quan in his arms and put him on a horse. The bandits came at Zhou Tai with swords. Bare-bodied and on foot, Zhou Tai raised his sword and fought them, killing more than ten men. Then a bandit charged straight at Zhou Tai on horseback with leveled spear. Zhou Tai seized the spear, dragged the man from his horse, took the spear and horse, and cut a bloody path through the enemy, rescuing Sun Quan. The remaining bandits fled far away. Zhou Tai had suffered twelve spear wounds. The wounds swelled, and his life hung by a thread.

When Sun Ce heard of this, he was greatly alarmed. Dong Xi, who was under his command, said, “I once fought against sea raiders and suffered several spear wounds. Yu Fan, a worthy commandery officer of Kuaiji, recommended a physician to me, and I recovered within half a month.” Sun Ce said, “Can this Yu Fan be Yu Zhongxiang?” Dong Xi said, “Yes.” Sun Ce said, “He is a worthy scholar. I must employ him.” He therefore ordered Zhang Zhao and Dong Xi to go together and invite Yu Fan into his service. When Yu Fan arrived, Sun Ce treated him with exceptional courtesy and appointed him Officer of Merit. He then mentioned that he was seeking a physician. Yu Fan said, “This man is Hua Tuo, courtesy name Yuanhua, a native of Qiao County in the state of Pei. He is truly the divine physician of the present age. I shall bring him to see you.”

Before many days had passed, Yu Fan brought him there. Sun Ce looked at the man. His face was youthful, his hair white as a crane’s feathers, and he had an airy bearing as though he had risen above the world. Sun Ce treated him as an honored guest and asked him to examine Zhou Tai’s wounds. Hua Tuo said, “This is an easy matter.” He treated him with medicine, and within a month Zhou Tai recovered. Sun Ce was delighted and rewarded Hua Tuo generously. He then advanced his army and destroyed the mountain bandits. All Jiangnan was pacified. Sun Ce assigned his officers and soldiers to guard the strategic passes in every region. At the same time, he wrote a memorial and submitted it to the imperial court, established friendly relations with Cao Cao, and sent a man with a letter to Yuan Shu demanding the Jade Seal.

Meanwhile, Yuan Shu secretly intended to proclaim himself emperor. He therefore wrote back with evasions and refused to return the Seal. He urgently gathered Chief Clerk Yang Dajiang, Commander Zhang Xun, Ji Ling, Qiao Rui, senior generals Lei Bo and Chen Lan, and more than thirty others, and said to them, “Sun Ce borrowed my troops and horses to begin his enterprise. Today he has gained all the territory of Jiangdong, yet he gives no thought to repaying the source of his success and instead demands the Seal from me. This is extremely discourteous. What plan should we use against him?” Chief Clerk Yang Dajiang said, “Sun Ce occupies the defenses of the great Yangzi, his troops are elite, and his grain is abundant. We cannot yet move against him. For now, we should first attack Liu Bei to avenge his earlier unprovoked attack on us. It will not be too late to take Sun Ce afterward. I offer a plan that will cause Liu Bei to be captured this very day.” It was just as the verse says:

Instead of going to Jiangdong to hunt tigers and leopards,He comes to Xuzhou to fight a flood dragon.

What the plan was will be explained in the next chapter.