Chapter 12: reverse

"Xiangguo, it was Lu Bu's individual prowess that gained him favor in your eyes. However, since his departure from Luoyang, he has openly defied the orders of our late generals multiple times. At Yique Pass, he outright disobeyed military directives and refused to engage, leading to a disgraceful defeat," Hu Zhen knelt in the prime minister's residence, entreating Dong Zhuo with tearful eyes.

Dong Zhuo, seated, shifted impatiently in his chair. It wasn't that he doubted Hu Zhen – after all, they had shared years of service together. Compared to the newly-acquired Lu Bu, his trust naturally leaned toward Hu Zhen.

But his aging body had grown weary. Prolonged kneeling made him uncomfortable, compounded by Hu Zhen's intermittent sobbing, testing Dong Zhuo's patience.

After all, Dong Zhuo was a military man. Was it necessary to make such an emotional spectacle thrice daily? Moreover, he had successfully brought Lu Bu into his fold, even gifting him his prized red rabbit BMW. If Hu Zhen lacked the ability to rein him in and couldn't employ a little persuasion, was it Dong Zhuo's responsibility to intervene? Did they think him so gullible, that a couple of tears would manipulate him? Wasn't this absurdity years in the making?

"General Hu, you've traveled far. Rest is due. Xiangguo is aware of your concerns," Li Ru, at Dong Zhuo's side, noticed the impatience etched across his features. He offered advice to Hu Zhen – some situations gained empathy initially but, overplayed, could backfire. It wasn't an easy spot for Hu Zhen, a position he found himself in through his own actions. Repeating words to and fro, who could he truly deceive?

"It's not for my sake, but for the sake of Hua Xiong and his soldiers who perished valiantly. The weight in my heart is unbearable, sleep eludes me, and I'm committed to securing justice for them!" Hu Zhen pleaded.

"Very well, go and rest. I've acknowledged your concerns," Dong Zhuo rose from his seat, his legs tingling from the prolonged immobility. He had witnessed Hu Zhen's emotions oscillate, and while not pleased, he was willing to grant a small concession. A soldier abruptly entered.

"Report."

"What is it?" Dong Zhuo inquired, his brows furrowing. The day's commencement had been riddled with discomforting events, particularly Hu Zhen's incessant disruptions. His tone carried an edge of irritation.

"Prime Minister, the Yang Province forces emerged victorious. Governor Lu defeated Sun Jian at the base of Songshan Mountain. Both Sun Jian's generals, Han Dang and Cheng Pu, were captured. The Jiangdong Army has retreated, and Governor Lu now brings Sun Jian's body into the city."

"Very good!" Dong Zhuo's annoyance seemed to dissipate as he heard the news. He slapped the table with enthusiasm. "Fengxian truly lives up to his reputation, the Jiangdong Tiger indeed!"

Contrarily, Hu Zhen's face drained of color. He stood, his disbelief evident. "It can't be true. Lu Bu's forces numbered fewer than a thousand – how could they defeat the Jiangdong Army?"

"Your words lack insight, General," Li Ru chimed in with a composed smile. "The victory isn't solely determined by numerical might. I've heard that Lu Bu often achieved more with less on the frontier. While the Jiangdong soldiers are formidable, they might not surpass the barbarians on the grasslands in ferocity."

Hu Zhen's skepticism prevailed; he was resolute in his doubts. His position earlier, lamenting Lu Bu's insubordination and blaming him for the defeat, now seemed baseless. In this very moment, his own forces of four thousand had crumbled before Sun Jian, while Lu Bu's contingent of merely a thousand managed to break through the Jiangdong Army.

Despite his reluctance, the reality couldn't be ignored. Dong Zhuo had more pressing matters to attend to, his attention shifted. "Go and inform Fengxian to visit the Xiangfu upon his entry to the city. He has achieved a remarkable feat in this battle, deserving of due rewards."

Sun Jian, renowned as the Tiger of Jiangdong and a potent figure in the coalition, had spurned Dong Zhuo's appeals to abandon the alliance and serve the court. Lu Bu's beheading of Sun Jian served to weaken the morale of the other feudal lords' alliance, aligning with Dong Zhuo's interests.

"Understood!" The soldier concurred and hurriedly left.

Hu Zhen stood there, conflicted. He pondered whether to remain or depart. Ultimately, he chose the latter. Despite his guilt, facing Lu Bu now would only exacerbate his humiliation. Rising, he addressed Dong Zhuo, "Xiangguo, I shall take my leave."

"Very well." Dong Zhuo glanced at him. While Sun Jian's beheading was unconventional, Hu Zhen's victory over Lu Bu in this battle had effectively debunked his prior accusations. Thus, Dong Zhuo let him go, a gesture that saved Hu Zhen some dignity.

Watching Hu Zhen depart, Li Ru shook his head and sighed, "My lord, while these loyal veterans have accompanied you on your journey, the time has come to bring in new, capable individuals."

Dong Zhuo nodded, comprehending Li Ru's concerns. The current power structure predominantly hinged on the Xiliang army, which sufficed initially. However, as Dong Zhuo's influence grew, the need for more capable advisors and generals became evident. The seniority-based approach, which might elevate Hu Zhen but render him vulnerable to Lu Bu's authority, could intensify tensions between old and new commanders, jeopardizing the overall stability.

"First, let's meet with Fengxian. We'll address this later. Fengxian's recent achievement is substantial; Sun Jian's downfall dampens the coalition's spirit. As for the rewards, Wen You, what's your suggestion?" Dong Zhuo shifted gears.

Li Ru, aware of Dong Zhuo's reluctance to dampen the morale of his trusted veterans, weighed his response. "General Lu is a relative newcomer, ascending to Zhonglang General without much progress. A Marquis of Duting title might evoke resentment, but withholding recognition risks alienating him. From a Confucian standpoint, gifts of silk, fine wine, or honorary positions can be considered. Your thoughts, my lord?"

Dong Zhuo stroked his beard, contemplating. "Are we being too frugal?"

"My lord, the war continues in Kanto, rebels remain defiant, and more battles lie ahead. Hasty promotion and excessive rewards may breed discontent among the generals and leave Lu Bu devoid of rewards. Besides, his fast ascension could outstrip his rank. From a strategic perspective, modest rewards would be prudent," Li Ru advised earnestly.

"Very well, prepare the offerings."

"I will see to it immediately," Li Ru agreed, departing to fulfill his task.