Chapter 17: Ordered to Campaign

The family connection and the folding fan quickly bridged the gap between Liu Zhan and Liu Yan. Before long, they were enjoying a lively conversation.

After discussing family matters and strengthening their bond, it was time to address serious business.

Liu Zhan explained to Liu Yan how he had been injured on the battlefield, granted leave to recover at home, and subsequently encountered the Yellow Turbans during his journey. He detailed the recent events and battles, both large and small.

Liu Yan was overjoyed upon hearing this. "Brother, you are truly a pillar of the nation! To achieve such great success with so few troops is remarkable. I will immediately report to the court and commend your accomplishments. Given the current national crisis and the fierce Yellow Turbans, you must continue to exert your efforts. The court has issued an edict requiring all regions to organize their forces to combat the Yellow Turbans. Tell me, what are your plans for the next steps?"

"Sir, the Yellow Turbans have risen in a wide area with a highly organized structure and detailed plans. It is said that their stronghold is in Julu, where General Lu Zhi is leading troops to suppress them, so it should not pose too much trouble. My greatest concern is the area around the capital, as that is the Yellow Turbans' ultimate target. From my observations, their strategy involves splitting their forces into three directions to pressure the capital, Luoyang. This indicates a clear strategic objective. Meanwhile, General Huang Pu Song's forces are too weak compared to the rebels, and any mishap could have dire consequences."

Liu Zhan, with a serious expression, continued, "After our efforts, the Yellow Turbans in Youzhou have been largely eradicated. At this critical time for the Han Dynasty, we cannot afford any slack. I will lead my troops south immediately, eliminating Yellow Turbans along the way, and assist the official forces in Julu. If Julu is secured, I will continue south to aid General Huang Pu."

"Excellent. Your analysis of the situation is thorough and insightful. You are not only a talented writer but also a strategist of great capability. If you achieve significant success in this campaign, I will certainly recommend you to the Emperor and ensure that your contributions are recognized. My only concern is that your current force is too small to achieve great results."

As a member of the ruling Liu clan, Liu Yan was naturally more concerned about the safety of the court compared to someone like Liu Zhan, who was far removed from the central power. Hearing Liu Zhan's account, Liu Yan was understandably anxious.

"At the beginning of our encounter with the Yellow Turbans, I was indeed worried. It was only through quick thinking and exploiting the enemy's weaknesses that we were able to disrupt them. I managed to kill some of the bandits and was fortunate to win. Later, I organized all the household servants of the Zhen family in Zhongshan into the army, which, as you can imagine, is still somewhat insufficient. During the campaign, the army suffered many casualties and the enemy forces were considerable. I had no choice but to continually recruit additional troops, and now we have about a thousand combatants. All the funds for this campaign have been provided by the Zhen family of Zhongshan," Liu Zhan said, with a mix of truth and exaggeration.

"Ah, the Zhen family's contribution is indeed substantial. What will be done about it in the future?" Liu Yan was surprised to hear the extent of the expenses, as war costs were not insignificant.

"I am also troubled by this. If necessary, we might capture some strong men during the campaign to compensate the Zhen family as laborers, and allocate some barren land from Liaoxi and Liaodong for them to cultivate as compensation. What do you think of this idea?" Liu Zhan proposed.

Liu Yan found this solution acceptable. "This plan is very good. Brother, you should proceed with this method. As for the other matters, I will handle the paperwork to ensure everything is properly managed. You need not worry about it."