Chapter 22: The Envoy of Southern Chu

  In the first year of Tongtai in Southern Chu, in April, the ruler of Xiang sent an envoy to Da Yong, presenting tribute and acknowledging himself as a vassal. He repeatedly sought peace and offered a large sum of gold for redemption.

  The Biography of Chu Youwang in the Book of Southern Dynasties: History of Chu

  I was sleeping soundly in the middle of the night when I was suddenly woken up by someone pushing me. When I opened my eyes in annoyance, I saw Xiao Shunzi beaming with joy, holding a steamer basket of hot and fragrant Osmanthus cake. I was surprised and asked him where he got it from, after all, this is the signature dessert of 'Gui Xiang Fang', the most famous pastry shop in South Chu. After taking a bite, the sweet and soft texture melted in my mouth, and I asked contentedly: "Where did you buy it? We must go there often in the future."

  Xiao Shunzi's face changed, his expression turned pale and gloomy. I curiously asked: 'What's wrong?'

  Xiao Shunzi hesitated for half a day before telling the truth. It turned out that he had thought about it for half a day and finally decided to casually find some delicious food from Daxing to replace it. Who knew that as soon as he went out, he heard that the envoy from Nanchu had already arrived in Chang'an? He rushed to the post house overnight to gather information, originally wanting to see if there was anything unfavorable to me. Unexpectedly, the delegation brought two masters from Gui Xiang Fang over, who happened to make two baskets of the most famous Osmanthus cake, preparing to send them to the imprisoned monarch Zhao Jia and Princess Chang Le. Perhaps they wanted to curry favor with Princess Chang Le in order to successfully negotiate a peace treaty. However, this inadvertently benefited Xiao Shunzi, who used his cunning skills to steal one of the freshly made baskets of Osmanthus cake.

  I almost fainted, I don't know if the Nanchu delegation that lost the Osmanthus cake will report to the authorities. After thinking about it, I decided to get rid of the evidence quickly and wolfed down a basket of Osmanthus cakes with Xiaoshunzi. At this time, the sky was already gradually brightening, and Xiaoshunzi slipped away. Just as I thought I'd sleep for a while longer, Xiaoshunzi came to report: 'Young master, Nanchu's envoy Lu Can wants to see you.'

  I was taken aback, why did this former student of mine come to see me? Shouldn't he despise me? After all, I am now a rebel in South Chu. I asked Shunzi with doubt, and Shunzi said with a mixture of tears and laughter: "Young master, you are now the trusted aide of the King of Yong, this matter of negotiating peace, the king can at least take four parts, if you want to start from the king's side, you are not the best candidate? Although it is a defeated party seeking peace, being able to gain one more advantage is also beneficial to South Chu."

  I sat up, took the outer garment handed over by Xiao Shunzi, and thought about how to solve it while dressing. Originally, I was thinking of "seeing each other as if not seeing", and did not plan to meet Lu Can. However, if he came to discuss peace talks, then I should give him a chance, otherwise it would be somewhat excessive. As the former minister of Southern Chu and now under the command of King Yong, if I declined politely, outsiders might think that King Yong was unwilling to negotiate. This matter could be big or small, and I couldn't handle it casually.

  After walking a few steps, I felt that my body was fine today, and receiving guests shouldn't be a problem. So I said: "Please ask General Lu to come to the flower hall to see me. It's still early now, so have someone send breakfast to the flower hall and prepare more food. Say that I'm inviting General Lu to dinner. The lord should already know about it, so send someone to ask if he wants to meet with the envoy from Southern Chu. I don't understand much about the peace talks, but Gu Yan should be clearer. If the lord is not convenient to come, please ask Brother Gu to accompany him, and also probe into the bottom line of Southern Chu.

  Xiao Shunzi, did Lu Can come alone?

  Xiao Shunzi replied: "Young master, General Lu brought a young man with him. The young man's appearance is not ordinary and should be a talented person."

  I smiled slightly and said, "Alright, Lu Can is young after all. If he had come alone, I would have suspected that he was here to see me privately. Since there's someone accompanying him, it must be official business. Alright, go invite them in."

  Lu Can stood quietly in front of the Yong Wang Fu gate, at 22 years old, he was still in his youthful vigor, but many years of military life made him appear more mature than his peers. His appearance was rough and unrefined, not like a typical Jiangnan scholar, but only seeing the faint glow in his eyes, one could tell that this young general was a rare talent with both literary and martial skills. Standing half a step behind him was a 26- or 27-year-old youth, wearing a square cap and a Confucian crown, looking elegant and refined, with an air of refinement that made people feel happy to approach him.

  The young man gazed at Lu Can, who was calm and collected. His name was Yang Xiu, originally from Shu State. When Shu State was destroyed, he was still studying abroad. When Southern Chu occupied Shu, he returned to his hometown. Under the governance of Lord Lu, Shu was very peaceful, although there were some disturbances caused by the Jinxiang Alliance. However, they did not stir up any major waves. Yang Xiu lived a peaceful life at home until two and a half years ago when one of his cousins was involved in an assassination attempt on Lord Lu and was sentenced to death. Yang Xiu was also implicated and imprisoned. The person responsible for the trial was none other than Lord Lu's only son, Lu Can. This young general handled matters quickly and decisively, and according to reason. Yang Xiu was soon released without charge, and Lu Can, seeing that he had exceptional talent and character, personally invited him to become his aide-de-camp. Yang Xiu was not a narrow-minded person; he had not achieved any great merit in Shu State, and serving Southern Chu did not count as a betrayal. After following Lu Can, he increasingly felt the young general's exceptional qualities. Although Lu Can was still young, his military strategies and tactics were unparalleled. When King Yong of Western Chu launched a surprise attack on Southern Chu, Lord Lu led troops to reinforce, while Eastern Qiong King took advantage of the situation to pressure Shu's borders. Lu Can led troops to counterattack, and after several battles, his well-trained elite soldiers defeated the powerful army of King Yong, forcing him to retreat and ensuring that Southern Chu would not be attacked on two fronts. Although Lu Can's achievements were not publicly recognized due to the loss of Jianye, within the Southern Chu military, he was already being quietly regarded as the successor to Duke Zhao of De. What made Yang Xiu even more admiring was that although Lu Can came from a military family and could not write poetry or essays, he had unique insights into classical history. Whenever they discussed the successes and failures of historical generals, it was like counting precious jewels; sometimes Yang Xiu himself had to admire Lu Can's broad knowledge.

  A few days ago, Yang Xiu couldn't help but ask Lu Can who could have taught him to be proficient in literature and history. However, Lu Can remained silent. Unexpectedly, yesterday, after arriving at the capital, he presented a national letter and today brought himself to pay respects to the renowned Jiang Zhe. Although Yang Xiu knew of Jiang Zhe's reputation, she didn't think much of him - just a talented scholar from Southern Chu who had surrendered to the capital. If it weren't for the recent assassination attempt that made her take notice, she wouldn't have paid attention to his existence. It wasn't until yesterday that she found out Jiang Zhe was actually Lu Can's mentor. She still remembers last night under the silver lamp, Lu Can's face hidden in the shadows, saying calmly: "I was mischievous since childhood, every day either climbing walls and trees or playing with guns and sticks, or going to fight with those street urchins. My father didn't want to see me so unlearned, so he invited a tutor to teach me. I relied on my fists to drive away several tutors, but Mr. Jiang was the fourth one. I originally wanted to give him a hard time, but as soon as he arrived, he told me that he too was just making a living, and if I drove him away, my father would invite another one anyway. If I compromised with him, he'd let us both have an easy life."

  Here is the translation:

  "Speaking of which, Lu Can's face showed a faint smile, and he continued: 'Mr. Jiang said that as long as I stayed in the study room every afternoon, I could do whatever I wanted in the afternoons, and he wouldn't give me too much homework. He would even help me deceive my father. At first, I agreed, but soon regretted it. Every afternoon, I was stuck in the study room, watching Mr. Jiang read with great interest, without paying attention to me. If I were to back out now, it would be too embarrassing. Later, I had to ask Mr. Jiang to think of a way for me to pass the time.

  Mr. Jiang said that since this was the case, he might as well teach me about books. Although I found it boring at first, it was better than being alone and bored. But I didn't expect Mr. Jiang to be so incredibly talented - he wouldn't make me read the Four Books and Five Classics, nor would he ask me to write poetry or essays. He said that as a member of a noble family, I didn't need to participate in the imperial examinations, and learning those useless things was unnecessary.

  He first taught me about the Analects of Confucius, making it sound interesting and fascinating, unlike others who made it seem dry and tasteless. Then he told me stories from history books, not just reading the original texts, but also adding his own insights and anecdotes from unofficial histories. From then on, I spent every afternoon listening to him tell stories.

  Later, when he saw that I was more interested in military strategy and battles, he taught me about the art of war and historical examples. I don't know how he knew so many things - he wasn't much older than me! Unfortunately, at the time, I was too fond of playing and didn't appreciate the value of his teachings.

  It wasn't until later, when I led troops in battle, that I realized how important what Mr. Jiang had taught me was. Unfortunately, by then, I no longer had the opportunity to ask him for guidance.

  Yang Xiu, I'm telling you this so you can understand what kind of person my teacher is. Now that he has surrendered to Da Yong, it's inevitable that we'll meet on the battlefield in the future. You are rich in strategy and will be his opponent one day. Alone, I won't be able to defeat him - you must seize the opportunity to get to know him well. If you don't understand your enemy, you won't have a chance of winning."

  Yang Xiuyue thought the more anxious he became, the more he wanted to see what kind of person this young general's respected and revered mentor was. So the longer they waited, the more worried he became that Jiang Zhe would not agree to meet them.

  Fortunately, after a while, a young guard came to pay his respects and said: 'General Lu, Lord Sima is waiting for you in the Cold Garden. The lord has just recovered from a serious injury and it's not convenient for him to come out to greet you, so he sent Hu Jiande to welcome you.'

  Lu Can glanced at the young guard, and saw that he had a simple appearance, but his eyes shone with a cold light. His palms were wide and large, with prominent joints and twisted tendons, indicating that he was a practitioner of external martial arts. However, his movements were calm and composed, showing that he had already reached a high level of mastery. Looking at the guard's entire being, Lu Can saw that he exuded a subtle aura of killing intent, and his posture was straight and upright, revealing that he was a seasoned warrior who had spent many years in the military. The fact that Prince Yong let such a person serve as his mentor's guard showed how much he valued his mentor. Thinking to himself, Lu Can smiled and said: "Please lead the way, Huyan Guard."

  The two followed Hu Yan Shou for half a day before arriving at a secluded and remote garden. Seeing the plaque on the garden gate, Lu Can knew he would finally get to see Jiang Zhe. Hu Yan Shou exchanged greetings with the four colleagues guarding the garden entrance and led the pair into the Cold Garden. As soon as they entered the Cold Garden, Lu Can felt a great shock in his heart. Although he hadn't seen anyone, he could vaguely sense that there were people hiding at all key positions in the garden. Even though he couldn't see them, just from the thick killing aura, he knew that the guards here were at least on par with Hu Yan Shou. It seemed that Prince Yong's esteem for his mentor was unparalleled.

  Two people were invited into the flower hall, and the first thing they saw was Jiang Zhe sitting there and Xiao Shunzi standing behind him.

  Yang Xiu looked over boldly and saw a young man with a pale complexion sitting beside the table. He was wearing a light blue long gown, his hair tied back with a single hairpin and a snow-white silk scarf. He sat there leisurely, his expression calm and peaceful, as if he had not recently struggled back from the brink of death. Yang Xiu was inwardly amazed, having thought that since Jiang Zhe had escaped from the Southern Chu assassin's hands earlier, he would be cold towards Lu Can. But he didn't know that someone else had successfully assassinated Jiang Zhe, and the truth had been hidden away. Even the Prince of Yong had told outsiders that Jiang Zhe was heavily injured by the Southern Chu assassin, as no one wanted to expose the internal conflicts of Da Yong. Therefore, Jiang Zhe did not harbor great hatred towards the Southern Chu, although he was disappointed and disheartened.

  I glanced at Lu Can, he seemed more calm and composed than the last time we met, I suppose being in charge for a while had matured him quite a bit. I stood up, smiling: "Young Master Hou, long time no see, you've become even more majestic."

  Lu Can was stunned when he saw me, and only came to his senses when he heard my voice. He hastily stepped forward and bowed down, saying: "Disciple pays respects to Master." His tone was actually choked with emotion. I knew that he was heartbroken at the sight of my appearance. Even I myself felt somewhat disfigured when I looked in the mirror. This was an unavoidable circumstance. I was already fortunate to have preserved my life; how could I dare ask for more? Anyway, within a year or two, I would be able to recover my health.

  I raised my hand and said: "Young Master Hou, quickly get up. No, you are now a great general of Nan Chu, I should call you General Lu. However, as the former General Xi who only held the position for a few days, how dare I use the title of master and apprentice."

  Lu Chan's emotions had calmed down, and he said lightly: "As a disciple in the past, I was disobedient and didn't know the importance of my master's teachings. Now it's too late for regrets. Please, Master, don't decline, I won't rely on our master-disciple relationship to ask you to do something extraordinary."

  I smiled wryly and said, "You're still as straightforward as ever. Never mind, I don't want to argue with you either. Get up, I haven't eaten yet, keep me company for a bit. And who is this?" I looked at Yang Xiu.

  Lu Can stood up and said: "This is Yang Xiu, a general under my command."

  Yang Xiu stepped forward and saluted: 'I have long heard of General Jiang's great reputation, I pay my respects.'

  I wanted to go forward and assist, but I only felt a pain in my heart, so I had to frown and say: 'Please excuse the humble official for not being able to return the courtesy. General Yang, please also take your seat.'

  Yang Xiu saw Jiang Zhe's forehead suddenly covered in cold sweat and hastily said: "Your Excellency is unwell, no need for excessive courtesy."

  The three of us sat down, and Xiao Shunzi personally brought up three bowls of porridge. I smiled and said: "These porridges are carefully made medicinal dishes, with nourishing medicines added inside, you two can try some."

  Lu Chan stood up and took the bowl handed over by Xiao Shunzi. He knew that Li Shun had killed Du Xie Xin, a notorious assassin, at the Yangtze River ferry some days ago. Before joining forces with De Qin Wang to change his name and go into hiding, Du Xie Xin was one of the top masters in Southern Chu. This time, he even successfully assassinated someone in the Yong Wang Fu, and after fleeing for thousands of miles, escaped from Da Yong, his reputation soared overnight. Unexpectedly, on a moonlit night by the Yangtze River, he was killed by this young man. In one night, Li Shun's name spread throughout the land, so Lu Chan did not dare to be slow.

  Lin Xiu also stood up to receive the rice bowl, and he couldn't help but glance at Jiang Zhe. What was so special about this frail young man that made such a master willingly become his servant and do menial tasks?

  I saw them so constrained, couldn't help but smile and said: 'This time I heard that Lu Can you are the envoy of Southern Chu, presumably already have a comprehensive plan, don't know what I can do to help?'

  Lu Chan's expression was somewhat abashed, but he quickly recovered and said respectfully: "Although Southern Chu has been defeated in battle, a new ruler has now been established, and the upper and lower classes are united in their determination. Our military strength is also fully prepared. Therefore, although we have come to offer our allegiance and seek peace this time, I hope that Great Yong will not make excessive demands for gold and silk. Moreover, I hope that we can ransom back the ruler of the former dynasty and the civil and military officials. However, this matter depends on whether or not the commander-in-chief of the Great Yong army agrees to it. Your Highness is the most important person in this matter, so I hope that you will inform me of your intentions."

  I calmly said: "The matter of peace talks will be handled by the senior officials in the court, and who dares to guess the intention of Prince Yong's heart? Besides, Your Majesty has no intention of making things difficult for Nan Chu. You are overthinking this, I don't quite understand these things either, it seems you've come to the wrong place."

  Lu Chan knew that Jiang Zhe was just making excuses, and was about to continue persuading him when a bright and clear voice came from outside the door: "How can you say that you've taken the wrong path? If it weren't for General Lu coming to see me first, I would never have let Nan Chu be so carefree."

  As he spoke, Li Zuo led Gu Jian in. Lu Can and Yang Xiu both stood up to pay their respects. Li Zuo smiled and said: "General Lu, I once had a meeting with your father, Lord Lu, and I've long heard that you have a tiger-like son under his knee. Today, seeing you for the first time, it's indeed true to your reputation. My third brother wrote to me saying that General Lu uses troops like a god, he is very admiring of you."

  Lu Can said calmly, "The young general is just a false father's leftover prestige, but the King of Yong is the master of using troops in the world. How can a firefly's light compete with the bright moon?"

  Li Zai sat down and calmly said: "The two countries making peace is also something I know must be done, but your country has usurped the emperor's title without regard for its vassal status. My great Yong has sent troops to punish you, which is a matter of great righteousness. Although your country has suffered heavy losses, it should naturally cede territory and pay indemnities. As for the matter of redeeming prisoners, I have no opinion on it, but how much ransom does your country plan to offer?"

  Lu Canzheng said: "Although Southern Chu also has its faults, it is a fact that the noble King Qi first raised troops to invade our borders. Your Highness occupied Jianye, took away our country's ruler and ministers, and even seized countless gold and silk. Now our country is united in determination. If your country still wants to bully us, although we are small and weak, we will resist to the end. The great Yu of Southern Chu is both a ruler and a relative by marriage. Your country has long had intentions to invade us. Although we have humbled ourselves to seek peace, we cannot allow your country to take what it wants at will. Our new ruler has already ascended to the throne, and the former ruler is now a commoner. If your country wants to keep him here, please do so. The former ruler and Princess Chang Le of your country are husband and wife, and it is only natural for the son-in-law to rely on his father-in-law for survival."

  Li Zai's eyes lit up, and he smiled: "Well said, indeed a young and outstanding talent, the extraordinary talents of South Chu are truly numerous. This king admires you." Then, with profound meaning, he said: "The matter can also be negotiated, this king cannot make decisions, but will not make things difficult for General Lu either."