Revisit the Three Kingdoms 02

International Journal for Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Volume I • Issue 2 • February 2002

Revisiting the Three Kingdoms
Historical Articles
Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD) --------------------------------------------------------------------------3
Late Han Dynasty Bureaucracy-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------14
Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tze-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------21
Quarterly Theme Deck
Quarterly Theme Deck - Yellow Turban (Cheese)...........................................................................................................25
Adventure Seeds
Luo-yang, Capital of Late Han Dynasty.......................................................................................................28
Table of Content
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Dragon Dynasty CCG and Romance of the Three Kingdoms Card Game. Romancing Cathay thanks Solomon Au Ye-
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Editor Notes:
There are some glaring rough spots in
this issue. I am very sorry for them.
The timing was poor on my part. And
this is an obvious rush job. It comes
down to deciding whether or not to
delay the publication for additional
editing or to release on time (albeit a
day late) with these mistake. I choose
the later. This will serve as a reminder
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Recently I have been in contacted
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Quarterly. It will be smaller scale
than Revisiting the Three Kingdoms
Quarterly (10-20 page vs 30-60) and
fewer arts. But it will useful articles
about the world of Zhongguo for the
Host and players.

Volume I • Issue 2 • February 2002 Page 3
Life of Cào Cao - Part II: The Foundation (190 - 195 AD)
Black Moun-
tain Bandits
The Alliance, after
Cao Cao had left, broke
up without accom-
plished anything. They
cited the lack of sup-
plies as main reason.
There were squabbles
among leaders. Replac-
ing the Alliance were
the Northern and the
Southern anti-Dong
Zhuo Factions. Yuan
Shao led the Northern Faction. They
have few skirmishes with Dong Zhuo
Government, but overall, posed little
threats. Yuan Shu led the Southern
Faction. They have given Dong Zhuo
Government a much harder time with
Sun Jian being their vanguard com-
mander. And due to Sun Jian's military
accomplishment, the Southern Faction
was more prominent of the two. Yuan
Shao, wanted to outdone his half-
brother, mulled over whether or not to
disavow the current emperor and had
Liu Yu, a distant imperial bloodline
and the Inspector of You Province, to
be declared as the new emperor.
Known for his strategic planning,
Yuan Shao came to ask Cao Cao for
his advice.
Cao Cao explained to him the
current position,
"The reason we received sup-
ports from provinces and com-
manderies was our support for
the current Emperor and
against Dong Zhuo Govern-
ment. At present, the Emperor
is young and held hostage by
rogue mandarin. He is not cor-
rupted. There is no need to
disavow. And if he is to be
replaced in present situation,
would there not be more chaos
in the Heaven Below? If my
lords insists to go to the North
and supports Liu Yu, My loy-
alty remains with the Emperor
at Chang-an."
Nonetheless, Yuan Shao wanted to
follow through with his plan. But, re-
ceived little support from elsewhere,
he decided to drop that idea. Unfortu-
nately, the damage had been done. The
Northern anti-Dong Zhuo Faction had
officially severed its ties with the Im-
perial Liu Household.
In February of the Second Year of
East Han Emperor Xian's Early Peace
(191 A.D.), Dong Zhuo promoted
himself as the Grand Master, thus,
elevated himself above all.
From the South, Sun Jian resumed
to attack remaining troops at Luo-
yang. Dong Zhuo sent Lu Bu and Hua
Xiong to join force with Hu Zhen. But
the infighting between Lu Bu and Hu
Zhen allowed Sun Jian to break
through. Hua Xiong was killed in bat-
tle. [But in Romance of the Three
Kingdoms, Guan Yu was credited for
killing Hua Xiong.] Sun Jian captured
Luo-yang. It is rumored that he had
found the Imperial Seal while cleaning
out the Imperial Han Ancestral Tem-
ple. Later, this became the source of
contention within the Southern anti-
Dong Zhuo Faction.
In the mean time, the Northern
Faction disintegrated when Yuan Shao
wrestled the control of Yi Province
from the rightful Inspector Han Fu and
fought against Gong-sun Zan for the
Northern Supremacy. Both were his
former allies.
During these events, Cao Cao re-
mained subordinate under Yuan Shao
and tried not to get involved in affairs
of Yuan brothers. He met Xun Yu, the
Talented Scholar from the Ying Prov-
ince (modern day He-nan Province).
After their first meet, Cao Cao happily
remarked,
"You, are mine Zhang Zi-fang
(or Zhang Liang, the chief ar-
chitect for the Foundation of
Han Dynasty)!"
He transferred his title, the Invigo-
rate Martial General, to Xun Yu as
gift. In addition, Cao Cao promoted
Xun Yu to position of the Martial
Seize Major.
That year, Cao Cao was thirty-
seven of age, and Xun Yu was twenty-
nine years old. And Cao Cao fortune
began to change. This event was dupli-
cated several years later when Liu Bei
met Zhu-ge Liang.
In July of the Second Year of
Early Peace (191 A.D.), Cao Cao re-
ceived a request to help stop Black
Mountain Bandits from attacking the
Eastern Region. Black Mountain Ban-
dits have over hundred thousand men.
They attacked and took over Wei
Commandery of Yan Province. Now,
they posed a threat to the Eastern Re-
gion, which occupied both side of Yel-
low River. The existing governor
could not handle the attack and peti-
Cao
Cao
Xun Yu
the Talented Scholar
from Ying Province
Courtesy of Creator Workshop
Dragon Dynasty CCG
Cao Cao
His luck began to change
for the better after leav-
ing the Alliance and met
up with Xun Yu
Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon
Dynasty CCG
Yuan Shao
Leader of the Northern Faction
Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dynasty
CCG

tioned for assistant.
Cao Cao used the same tactic
against Black Mountain Bandits by
having Xia-hou Dun conducted a fron-
tal assault. As enemy was occupied, he
led an elite force of Iron Cavalry to
attack from behind. Black Mountain
Bandits was unorganized and when
faced unexpected attack, they were
nearly annihilated. For his effort, Cao
Cao became the Grand Administrator
of Eastern Region. To gain rapport
with the locals, he relocated his base to
Dong-wu-yang. Finally, Cao Cao had
a base of operation.
After half year of rest, in Spring of
the Third Year of Early Peace (192
AD), Black Mountain Bandits wanted
to avenge their early humiliation by
attacking Cao Cao. Their destination
was the new capital of Eastern Prov-
ince, Dong-wu-
yang.
Alert by his
spy network,
Cao Cao com-
manded both
Xun Yu and
Cao Ren to de-
fend the city.
He led the main
force to camp
at Dun-qiu, two
hundred miles
south west of
Dong-wu-
yang. It is at the
exact mid dis-
tance from
Black Moun-
tain to Dong-
wu-yang. For
this coming
battle, Cao Cao
decided to
match wits in-
stead of brute
force against
numerous but untrained bandits. He
chose the battle to be taking place at
Nei-huang, one hundred miles north
west of Dun-qiu. Its strategic signifi-
cant is that it is also at the midpoint
between Black Mountain and Dong-
wu-yang. Cao Cao estimated that
Black Mountain Bandits were numer-
ous and lacked discipline. Their move-
ment would be slow. Even cavalry
would take two days to travel from
Black Mountain to Dong-wu-yang.
But from Dun-qiu to Black Mountain
would require only a day for cavalry.
And from Dun-qiu to Nei-huang
would take less than half a day for
cavalry. According to Cao Cao's plan,
his troops would arrive to the battle-
field much faster than Black Mountain
Bandits. This would be a battle of mo-
bility.
Cao Cao divided his light cavalry
force into several smaller squadrons so
Black Mountain Bandits would as-
sume them to be scouts and not as a
threat. Then he waited for hundred
thousands of Black Mountain Bandits
to leave the mountain and marched
pass Dun-qiu. He regrouped his forces
into two. One garrisoned Nei-huang.
Another attacked headquarter of these
bandits, the Black Mountain.
Xun Yu defended the city and
blunted Black Mountain Bandits siege.
Soon, the enemy camp received news
that their headquarter has been at-
tacked. Situation was very critical. The
entire army abandoned everything in
an attempt to return to bring relief to
home base. Cao troops at Nei-huang
harassed the retreating army along the
way but withdrew immediately if ac-
tively engaged. Black Mountain Ban-
dits, confidant of their numerical
strength, decided to give chase. Un-
known to them, they were slowly sur-
rounded. Cao force, that attacked
headquarter, was already on its way
back to Nei-huang. From the city, Cao
Ren led troops to pursuit.
Still Black Mountain Bandits were
confident of their superior number of
men. But daily force marches have
exhausted them. Cao troops were only
have to travel short distance to enter
into battlefield and were well-rested
while await for enemy advanced to-
ward them. And despite having
smaller number, Cao troops were able
to surround Black Mountain Bandits
from all side. Opposing leaders never
knew the exact number of their enemy.
Instead, they felt that attacks were
from every corner. They were being
massacred by more professional
troops. They were defeated. Since the
time of Han Emperor Ling, marauding
Black Mountain Bandits had been
dominated the North South of Yellow
River near Eastern Region. They were
no more.
Map Explanation
1 Black Mountain
Bandits started
from this area.
Their pincer attacks
were successful.
Government forced
to seek help from
Cao Cao.
2 Cao Cao used simi-
lar tactics against
Black Mountain
Bandits.
3 In gratitude, the
government nomi-
nated Cao Cao to
be their leader. He
relocated his force
to Dongwuyang.

Additional benefit from this battle
was the destruction of northern barbar-
ian, Huns (South Xiong-nu). They
were allied of Black Mountain Ban-
dits. Huns barbarians have been raided
both Bing Province and Yi Province
for nearly hundred years. Their loss at
the Battle of Nei-huang had brought
decades of peace to the northern China.
Around that time, Yuan Shao de-
feated Gong-sunZan for the control of
Iy Province. Gong-sunZan barely hold
on to southern You Province. Dong
Zhuo controlled both Si-li Region and
Bing Province. Various warlords sta-
tioned in Yen Province and Yu Prov-
ince. Yuan Shu controlled major
portion of Yu Province and northern
Yang Province. Liu Biao consolidated
his hold of Jing Province. Tao Qian
was at Yu Province. Liu Yan was at Yi
Province. Zhang Lu was at Han-
zhong. These warlords slowly exerted
their independence from Choa-ting
(the imperial court). The one who lost
the most were commoners; everything
they have owned had been destroyed.
Cao Cao being sympathized to the
plight of commoners, wrote a poetry,
On the Road to Song, to show his
frustration at events of that time.
On the Road to Song
Righteous men gathered at
Guan-dong, raised troops
against maligned group
Initially they allied at Meng-
jin, their hearts still at Luo-
yang.
Troops arrived but lacked
strength, vacillate like aimless
wild geese.
Power caused men to com-
pete, to posses through in
fighting.
Younger at Huai-nan declared
emperor, Elder at North
carved seal.
Flea infested beneath armor
suits, ten thousands names
were eradicated.
White bones dotted across
wilderness, thousand miles
without rooster announced.
Commoners survived one in
hundred, these thoughts rent
one's stomach.
Qing Provincial Troops
On the Third Year of East Han
Emperor Xian's Early Peace (192
A.D.), a shocking news came out of
Chang-an. Dong Zhuo, grand minister
who held Emperor hostage, and who
survived attacks of Alliance, was as-
sassinated by his trusted minister,
Wang Yun, and his step-son, Lu Bu.
Newly established capital, Chang-an,
had engulfed into turmoil and chaos.
Despite what had occurred, not one in
former Alliance paid much attention.
They were too busy to establish their
turfs. It was at this time, Cao Cao
received his greatest military gift,
Qing Provincial Troops.
They were originally members of
Yellow Turban raised by Zhang Jiao
and his brothers. By the time their
leaders were defeated within Si-li Re-
gion, these troops were numbered in
millions. Since then, they dispersed
and waited in secret for opportunity.
As Choa-ting (the imperial court) be-
came impotent, Qing Provincial Yel-
low Turbans began active again. The
Inspector of Qing Provincial ousted
them. Early on, they attempted to join
force with Black Mountain Bandits.
But, they met Gong-sunZan along the
way. He defeated them and forced
them to flee to Yen Province. There,
they have much more success. Qing
Province Yellow Turbans defeated In-
Map Legend
1 After more than half
of year of recupera-
tion, Black Mountain
Bandits wanted a re-
match. They marched
toward Dong-yang-
cheng.
2 Alert by his spies, Cao
Cao send his cavalry
forces to Dun-qiu
which is half way be-
tween Black Mountain
and Dong-yang-cheng.
While Black Mountain
Bandits attempted to
siege the city, Cao
Cao sent half of his
cavalry to attack the
base of these rogues.
3 Alarmed by the attack
to their home base,
Bandits retreated but
got harassed by Cao
cavalry force. They
turned to Dun-qiu.
4 By then, returning
cavalry joined by
forces from the city
have the Bandits sur-
rounded at Dun-qiu.
Bandits were de-
stroyed.

spector of Yen Province and sacked
two cities. The Eastern Region, where
Cao Cao located, was within their
striking distance.
To strengthen their defense, Cao
Cao invited local leaders to an emer-
gency military meeting. There, Chen
Gong, from the Eastern Region Wu-
yang area, volunteered to speak to staff
members of deceased Inspector of Yen
Provincial governor and to persuade
them into accepting Cao Cao as the
new Inspector. If successful, Chen
Gong believed that Cao Cao would
finally have the foundation he needed
to become a contender. Cao Cao was
excited by this proposition and granted
Chen Gong permission to initiate the
talk. By then, staff members of Yen-
Province Inspector were worried due
to both the death of Inspector and the
approaching Qing Provincial Yellow
Turbans. They listened to Chen Gong
suggestion and Bao Xin of Ji-bei also
threw in his support. They personally
went to the East Region's Wu-yang
[city] to invite Cao Cao to be their
Inspector. He accepted and immedi-
ately began to reorganize the Yen Pro-
vincial militia. He made preparation
for the upcoming battle with Qing Pro-
vincial Yellow Turbans.
Facing such opposition whose size
was ten times of his troops, Cao Cao,
nonetheless, was confidant of be able
to defeat them. He pointed out several
flaws of Qing Provincial Yellow Tur-
bans. They lacked horses, which re-
duced their mobility. Their size was
large, yet, there was no sense of orga-
nization. They have repeated suc-
cesses in Yen though, therefore, their
alertness was not high. The battle
would not be fought by frontal assault.
Instead, there would be a series of
skirmishes to chip away Yellow Tur-
bans morale. Once morale dropped, it
would be easy to destroy them.
With Light Cavalry,
Cao Entered A Trap
Cao Cao had selected the battle-
field to be at Shou-zhang [City] (in
modern day San-dong Province,
southwest of Dong-ping District).
There was a wide-open plain, per-
fected for cavalry battle. Yellow Tur-
bans main base was very close by. Yet,
Cao Cao personally led Bao Xin with
a thousand combined troops of cavalry
and infantry to scout the front line.
Cao Cao was excited and proud of his
tactic. As they rode, he explained to
Bao Xin of his plans.
He did not realize that
he only had couple
hundreds of cavalry
with him and was way
ahead of his foot sol-
diers when they sud-
denly met Yellow
Turbans raiding party
of several thousands.
The battlefield was
not optimized for cav-
alry maneuver.
They were out-
numbered and almost
annihilated. Bao Xin
asked a small group of
elite cavalry to form
rearguards in order for
Cao Cao to escape. He
would stay behind and
hold the lines as long
as they could. At first,
Cao Cao refused; but
Bao Xin pointed out
that his troops could
not do without their
leader. For the sake of
Qing Provincial Troops.
Dragon Dynasty CCG
Map Legend
1 Qing Provincial Yel-
low Turbans were
remnant of the
Famed Yellow Tur-
bans. They were
ousted by Qing Pro-
vincial Inspector.
2 On their way to Black
Mountain, Gong-sun
Zhan defeated them.
They forced to re-
treat southward to
Yen Province.
3 They have much suc-
cess there. Sacked
two cities and de-
feated Yen Provincial
Inspector. And they
were approaching
toward Cao Cao land.
1
2
3

all, Cao Cao relented and fled. The
defending troops were all perished
along with Bao Xin.
Bao Xin was a wealthy man and
came from a respectable family. Since
early days of Alliance, he was one of
few supporters of Cao Cao. Bao Xin
had encouraged Cao Cao when the
latter was at his lowest point. He died
because of Cao Cao carelessness. Cao
Cao was heart-broken. Despite his re-
wards, the remains of Bao Xin were
not found. He had a wooden statue
carved out of likeness of Bao Xin to be
ceremonially buried.
Relentless Chases,
Merciless Bouts
To honor Bao Xin, Cao Cao
wanted to win this battle fast.
He gathered available youths and
trained them for battle. Cao Cao was in
armor all day and personally exercised
battle formation. Troop morale was
high. There were new troops arrived.
And combined with remaining force of
Yen Provincial militia and Bao Xin
own personal troops, Cao's army was
getting larger.
On the other hand, Yellow Turban
had loose organization and lacked mil-
itary expertise. Though they were
many, they could not stand Cao Cao
round-a-clock attacks. He never gave
them time to recover. He sent out one-
tenth of his highly mobile force to
harass opponents while his bulk of his
force recuperated and rested. There-
fore, Cao Cao troops were always
fresh and eager while enemy became
tired and weary. Yellow Turbans mo-
rale decreased rapidly, and eventually
became rout.
By then, Cao Cao had calm down
and through things through. He real-
ized that the solution to people upris-
ing was not through military might.
That was but a temporary solution.
Politic was necessary, to achieve the
lasting peace. Once Yellow Turbans
have lost will to fight, he began to
negotiate for opposition to surrender.
During talk session, Cao Cao rear-
ranged his troops, planned for new
battleground, and set up ambushes.
When the talk broke off, Cao Cao
resumed his attacks. This time, instead
of totally annihilation, his objective
was to harass and to force opponents
to retreat toward one final trap. Then
Cao Cao had his troops garrison the
checkpoints to prevent Yellow Tur-
bans from breaking out.
When winter came, Yellow Tur-
bans surrendered without conditions.
Cao Cao was pleased and forgave their
past transgressions. Elderly, weak, and
those unsuited for military service
were sent home to work on farms. The
remaining three hundred thousands
were regrouped and trained to become
what would be known as Qing Provin-
cial Troops. They farmed on govern-
ment land when not involved in
military training or activity.
This solved the problem of Yellow
Turbans; increased farming productiv-
ity; and rebuild society after years of
war. More importantly, combined with
Qing Provincial Troops with Yen Pro-
vincial militia and Bao Xin force, Cao
Cao finally had sufficient military
strength to be a world-class contender.
He received supports from officials
throughout Yen Province. Yuan Shao
nominated Cao Cao to become the
Inspector of Yen Province. This, in
effect, elevated him to the warlord
status. Only after end of Qing Provin-
cial Yellow Turban Crisis, did the
Chang-an government appointed in-
spector arrive. Cao Cao stopped him at
the border and forced him to flee and
to seek protection under Yuan Shu.
Upheld Son of Heaven,
Use Militia to
Garrison Farm
During the interim between the
assassination of Dong Zhuo and death
of Wang Yun, the antagonistic nature
between various warlords and the
Chang-an Government had been re-
solved. Actually, these warlords have
all but forgotten the existence of the
Han Government and were busy ex-
panded their territories. Of those, the
feud between the Yuan brothers was
especially fierce. Cao Cao was pro-
Yuan Shao and fought for him against
both Liu Bei and Tao Qian who were
pro-Yuan Shu. And secretly, Cao Cao
maintained an open channel to the Im-
perial Han Household at Chang-an.
Mao Jie, an advisor of Cao Cao,
even suggested the following,
"Heaven Below had sundered,
various lords maintained their
holds. Though both Yuan
Shao and Liu Biao have
maintained large army, they
lacked foresight and unwill-
ing to contribute to the stabili-
zation of the nation's
fundamental. Choa-ting
(imperial court) has no trea-
sury to govern this nation,
Hundred Names (term for
common folks) have no
wealth to stabilize homes.
This crisis will not last. One
has to raise troops in the
name of the Righteous in or-
der to win, and one has to
have an official title in order
to maintain cash flows.
Therefore, Illuminate Grand
(honor title to one's master), a
strategy has to develop that
upheld Son of Heaven in or-
der to berate the unfaithful,
and to garrison farms in order
to stockpile supplies. Only
Chen Gong, the other
Cao Cao supporter,
who engineered him to
become Inspector of
Yen Province.
Dragon Dynasty CCG
Bao Xin, one of two Cao
Cao supporter, who
helped him to become
Inspector of Yen Prov-
ince.
Dragon Dynasty CCG

then, a hegemony can be es-
tablished."
Mao Jie's suggestion became
what was known later as the Up-
held Son of Heaven, Use Militia
for Farm Stratagem. Initially, Cao
Cao did not immediately respond
to it. Still, the thought must have
struck a chord in his mind. For
next ten years of his life, he based
his policy on this policy.
Third Year of Early Peace
(192 A.D.) had been fruitful to
Cao Cao's career. First, he gained
control of Yen Province. He re-
ceived three hundred thousands Qing
Provincial Troops. He gained a de-
tailed strategic plan from Mao Jie. And
last but not least, Cao Zhi was born.
Six Hundred Miles
Relentless Pursuit
Fourth Year of Early Peace (193
A.D.), Cao Cao's force faced off with
Yuan Shu, the Leader of Southern
anti-Dong Zhuo Faction.
After pacified Yen Province, Cao
Cao moved his personal army to Zhen-
cheng [City] (modern day, East of
Shan-dong Pu-yang Province). At that
time, Jing Provincial Inspector, Liu
Biao, had put more pressure on Yuan
Shu's troop who stationed near the
northeast boundary and cut off the
supplies source. Yuan Shu, in turn,
was forced to expand elsewhre; he
moved into Cao Cao's land.
Yuan Shu placed his main force at
Feng-qiu cheng [City] to gather re-
maining forces of Black Mountain
Bandits and Huns barbarians. He
planned to pincer attack from the
West. Once, they were ready, Yuan
Shu commanded Liu Xiang to lead an
expeditious force to threat Cao Cao
army at Zhen cheng and to issue a
challenge. However, Liu Xiang was
frightened of Cao Cao's fighting abili-
ty. He halted and stationed his forces
at Kaung-ting (ancient police stable) at
the south of Pu-shui River.
Based on the
intelligence gather-
ing, Cao Cao was
able to guess Yuan
Shu's plan of three
pronged attacks
against Zhen
cheng. Yuan Shu's
objective was to
frighten off other
auxiliary or pro-
Cao forces in order
to isolate Cao
Cao's force. How-
ever, Cao Cao did
recognize a tactical
flaw within this
sounded plan. Liu
Xiang's expedi-
tious force was
meant to draw out
Cao Cao's force,
but it was a mistake to choose Kaung-
ting as the battlefield. Theoretically on
the map, the distance from Kaung-ting
to Chen-liu [City] is shorter than to
Zhen-cheng [City] by a day's of foot
march. But in actually, Cao's force
only had to cross one river to reach
Kaung-ting whereas Yuan Shu had to
travel four rivers. At that time, it was
time consuming to move troops across
river. If Cao force hurried, they could
reach Kaung-ting long before Yuan
Shu's main force. Yuan Shu allies,
Black Mountain Bandits and Huns
(South Xiong-nu) barbarians, would
take even longer to arrive. By then, the
battle may be over.
Cao Cao decided to take the pre-
emptive strike.
Xun Yu began to gather troops
throughout Yen Province to Zhen-
cheng. This caused Yuan Shu into
thinking that Cao Cao was prepared
for a large-scale battle at the city. In-
stead, Cao Cao personally led all cav-
alry troops to quickly cross the Pu-shui
River to attack Yuan Shu's expeditious
force at Kaung-ting. While waiting for
further instruction, Liu Xiang was
caught surprised by Cao Cao who
quickly annihilated the entire force.
The battlefield was soon cleared to
prepare for the next battle. This also
brought enough time for Xun Yu to
have the main force ready and for Cao
Ren led them to Kaung-ting.
Yuan Shu still believed that Cao
Cao was with the main force and that
there was only minor expedition force
at Kaung-ting. He took his time to
move his army across four rivers for
the eventual confrontation. He thought
his force would sufficiently awe Cao's
troop into not dare to commit suicidal
attack against his main force.
Cao Cao was also counted on that
attitude. As majority of Yuan Shu's
troop had crossed the final river, but
Yuan Shu, Leader of
Southern Faction
Dragon Dynasty CCG
Yuan Shu Initial Plan
1 Black Mountain Ban-
dits would attack
from the North.
2 Yuan Shu would lead
the Central Army.
3 Liu Xiang would lead
the Southern Army.
He planned to isolate
Cao Cao from rest of
Provincial force.

had yet set up formation, Cao Cao attacked.
Despite having superior number, once he real-
ized that he had made a grave mistake, Yuan Shu
lost his will to fight. He withdrew his troop to
Feng-qiu cheng [City] to redraw the battle. How-
ever, Cao Cao pressed and had the city siege.
Yuan Shu did not have the time to determine
how many troops Cao Cao had; he was scared
witless. Once he heard the advance of Cao's
forces toward Feng-qiu cheng [City], he quickly
abandoned it. He retreated one hundred fifty li
(75 km/46.6 miles) southeast, crossed three riv-
ers and arrived at Da-xiang Yi [City]. Yet, before
he could catch his breath, reports came in about
the approaching Cao's force. Yuan Shu quickly
moved to a nearby more defensible city, Tai-
shou cheng, and raised the cease-fire shield.
Ever since the force withdraw of some over
two hundred li (100+ km/62.1+ miles), Yuan
Shu had lost more than half of his force. Not
even a third was present by the time he entered
Tai-shou cheng [City]. On the other hand, Cao
Cao had met up with Cao Ren's force and now
they have the numerical superiority.
Yuan Shu hoped the strong impregnable
walls of Tai-shou cheng would deter Cao Cao.
But the city is located on lowland by the river.
This was spring and river had risen. Cao Cao
sent some force to up river to prepare to divert
and flood the city. Yuan Shu quickly abandoned
the city and led few personal guards across the
river to another city, Ning-jun cheng, on a higher
land. Still Cao Cao was closed behind and pre-
pared to siege.
Yuan Shu finally gave up and fled. This
time, not only had he left Yen Province, but fled
across Yu Province and into Yang Province. He
was so shook up by Cao's force that he did not
stop until he crossed the Yang-tze River and into
Jiu-jiang-cheng [City]. From Kaung-ting to Jiu-
jiang-cheng, Yuan Shu had withdrew more than
six hundred li (300+ km/186+ miles) like a dog
with tail between its leg. The leader of Southern
Faction had been defeated by a recent upstart!
Others began to pay more attention to the new-
comer, Cao Cao.
In reality, it was a difficult effort from Cao
Cao. This was purely a battle of the hearts. He
never gave Yuan Shu a time to calm down to
think it over. Once Cao Cao had surprised his
opponent, he relentless pressed. Even if he
wanted to, Cao Cao did not have sufficient
strength to destroy Yuan Shu's force. Many
times, he appeared to have Yuan Shu surrounded
but allowed Yuan Shu to escape.
Cao Cao's objective was to frighten
off Yuan Shu.
It was during this time, Cao
Cao coined the popular phase,
Quench Thirst By Mention Plum.
On one of the persistent chases,
Cao force had traveled a day and a
night with little to drink. There was
no water supply on route and too
much time would be lost to dug a
well. Troops was getting slower
and slower. Cao Cao was out front
rallied the troops.
He quickly pointed to a distant
wood and claimed,
“Men, ahead of us is the plum
tree forest. There would be
more than enough plums to
quench our thirst. Please, ev-
eryone bears with it just a little
In Reality
Liu Xiang faltered at Kaung-ting.
Yuan Shu have to ferry over 4 rivers in
order to meet up with Liu Xiang.
Cao Cao had to ferry only 1 river and saw
an opportunity. He took a chance.
Results
Yuan Shu just kept running after he realized that it was Cao Cao
awaited at the shore of Kaung-ting.
Cao Cao kept pressure on Yuan Shu. But he always leave a escape
route for Yuan Shu to run.
Cao Ren joined forces with Cao Cao during the pursuit.

bit longer.”
Upon hearing that, troops gave a
loud cheer. They began to salivate by
imaged how those sour plums would
taste. Their spirits improved, and
thirsts were quenched. Hence, the
phase, Quench Thirst By Mention
Plum, became known.
This entire battle lasted from end
of winter to early fall of following year.
Betrayals
After defeating Yuan Shu, Cao
Cao reputation had increased. Local
governments throughout Yen Province
were submitted to him. Despite his
idealistic nature, Cao Cao was also a
realist. He reflected that without pow-
er, his idea was but empty. So, after
control Yen Province, his most impor-
tant priority was to expand his holding
to increase his strength. He began to
analyze his surrounding.
To his north was the
leader of Northern Alliance,
Yuan Shao. He was much
more experienced than his
half brother, Yuan Shu.
Yuan Shao had many gifted
advisors and able generals.
Through scheme, he had re-
placed Han Fu to gain own-
ership of Yi Province.
Through might, he had
fended off fierce Gong-sun
Zan's troops from encroach-
ing Yi Province. He was un-
disputed master of the north.
To his southwest, Jing
Province was vast and rich.
And under Liu Biao govern-
ing, people lives were stable
and defense was strong. Not
to mention the fact that Yu
Province was in between.
Most local governments
there were semi-autonomy.
There were many warlords
who maintained their sepa-
rate influences and controls.
To become the Inspector of
Yu Province would be but
an empty title.
To his east, Xu Province was con-
sidered to be the paradise. It was un-
touched by turmoil of Yellow
Turbans. Tao Qian, Inspector of Xu
Province, was a capable minister who
maintained peace and tranquility. No
matter what happened to rest of the
world, he played part of non-partici-
pant. Steadily, he defended this rich
and plentiful land.
It was very obvious to Cao Cao as
on where to make his next move.
Liu Biao
Jing Province
Sun Ce
Yang Province
Yuan Shu
Yang Province
Cao Cao
Yen Province
Tao Qian
Xu Province
Gosung Zhan
Yu ProvinceYuan Shao
Yi Province
Yellow
River
Luo-yang
Chang-an
Political Sphere as of 194 A.D.

Xu Province,
Paradise in Turmoil Time
Fourth Year of Early Peace (193
AD) was a very chaotic time. In sum-
mer, Dong Zhuo was assassinated and
the Chang-an government fell apart.
The leader of Southern Faction, Yuan
Shu, was defeated by Cao Cao who
was considered to be a minor power.
Tao Qian thought it was time to make
his move. He wanted to become a
contender to the throne with Xu Prov-
ince as his base.
Tao Qian was a cautious man. He
created a puppet warlord, Pi Xuan,
who claimed to be emperor at Xia Pi.
Through him, Tao Qian attacked and
claimed two cities from Qing-Prov-
ince. Next, his goal was to advance to
Sili Region. This required a passage-
way through Cao Cao's Yen Province.
Tao Qian was confident and did not
bother to parley with Cao Cao. He
attacked and held Ren cheng, a south-
ern city of Yen Province.
After four months of marathon
battles against Yuan Shu, Cao Cao
wanted to give his troops a well-de-
served rest and recuperation. He paid
no attention to Tao Qian's incursion
other than to hold on strategic area.
Tao Qian had given a free passage
through southern Yen Province. At the
end of fall season when harvest had
gathered and military was well sup-
plied. Cao Cao decided its time to act.
Instead of confronting Tao Qian head
on, he used the Scheme, Surround Wei
to Rescue Zhao, and attacked Xu Prov-
ince instead.
Tao Qian's main force was away,
and defenders were inexperienced,
Cao troops were able to take over 10
cities in one fell swoop. Upon hearing
the news, Tao Qian knew he had fallen
to a trap and quickly rushed back to Xu
Zhou. He chose outskirts of Peng-
cheng [City] (modern day, Xu Zhou
City), a strong military base, to con-
front Cao troops.
Sadly, Tao Qian did not know
himself nor his opponent. His troops
were mostly farmers and fought on
foot. On the other hand, Cao Cao was
specialized in cavalry battle. His most
destructive force was the cavalry.
Once Tao Qian chose the wide-open
plain outside of Peng-cheng, he had
sealed his own fate.
Cao cavalry smashed through Xu
Zhou infantry like hot knife through
butter. Infantries were not very mobile
and only have short reach weapons.
They were obliterated with deaths
ranged in ten of thousands; blood flow
like river; and bodies blocked the wa-
terway. Tao Qian retreated eastward to
Yan-cheng [City], one hundred fifty li
(38+ miles/61+ km) away. He lost half
of Xu Province.
Vengeful Massacre
In the Fifth Year of Early Peace
(194 AD), Cao Cao family had suf-
fered a tragedy as one of aftermaths
from the Battle of Peng-cheng.
Cao Song, Cao Cao's father, had
fled to Xu Province during early days
of Dong Zhuo tyranny. He was a good
friend of Tao Qian and Xu Province
was reputed to be the Haven of China.
After the last battle, Tao Qian fol-
lowed the tradition and simply ex-
pelled Cao Song. Zhang Men, a
general under Tao Qian, was the es-
cort. Cao Song's caravan was made of
over hundred vehicles. It contained so
much wealth that Zhang Men began to
covet. Near the border of Xu Province
and Qing Province, he decided to raid.
Cao's family was all killed. Zhang
Men disappeared with misbegotten
wealth.
When Cao Cao returned to Zhen-
cheng [City] after victory at Xu Prov-
ince, he heard the tragic news. He
vowed to take vengeance against Tao
Qian. When summer came, he reorga-
nized troops and attack Xu Province
for the second time.
Cao Cao had controlled both
Peng-cheng [City] and Xia Pi [City] as
result from previous battle. There, he
build a city, Cao-gong, to commemo-
rate his father. And in the name of
vengeance, he ordered massacred of
people of Xu Province in three com-
manderies. There was no survivor. The
world was shocked at Cao Cao's vil-
lainy. Such action also brought in two
pro-Tao Qian leaders: Kong Rong,
Inspector of Bei-hai Region, and Liu
Bei, an ally of Gong-sun Zan.
Since Tao Qian still hidden within
Yan-cheng [City], he had fortified its
strong defensible position. And Cao
Cao knew that people were still pro-
Tao Qian, Cao Cao decided to destroy
forces around the city and then pre-
pared a long siege. He wanted to elim-
inated Tao Qian once and for all.
For Tao Qian, he thought he had
figured Cao Cao out. First, he contin-
ued to shore up defense at Yan-cheng.
And he avoided the open plain warfare
and preferred the bullhorn maneuver.
He established two points opposite and
away from the city. One located at
Xiang-ben cheng [City] which located
northwest from Yan-cheng. Another is
an alliance force of his own general,
Cao Bao, Kong Rong and Liu Bei.
They stationed at east of Yan-cheng
and instructed to harass Cao troops.
Again, Cao Cao found fault within
Tao Qian's plan. But hiding the main
force within the city, it demonstrated
that Tao Qian had lost the will to fight.
He merely wanted to wait out of this
conflict. The two points are too weak
on their own to pose any challenge to
Cao troops. And they could not sup-
port each other in any way.
Tao Qian
he did not know him-
self, and did not know
Cao Cao. He lost every
battle against him.
Dragon Dynasty CCG
Liu Bei
former ally, now an
opponent
Dragon Dynasty CCG

Therefore, Cao Cao charged Cao
Ren to siege Xiang-ben cheng. He
personally led main troop to break up
the combine force of Cao Bao, Kong
Rong and Liu Bei. As predicted, Tao
Qian would rather stay behind the wall
than to attempt any rescues. After
breaking up the combine force, Cao
Cao turned around and joined with
Cao Ren to attack Xiang-ben cheng.
Defender's morale was low when they
heard that Tao Qian did not rescue the
combine force that was destroyed by
invading force. Within three days, the
city was breached and Cao Cao issued
the most terrible massacre. There was
not a living creature within the city.
The news had frightened Tao Qian so
much that he fled to nearby Yang
Province's Dan-yang cheng [city].
Though Cao Cao used the pretext
of avenging family death, his real pur-
pose is to acquire Xu Province. Massa-
cre was viewed as a mean to break any
pro-Tao Qian feeling that people may
harbor.
Of all he had met in this campaign,
he was most surprised at Liu Bei's
troops. They were small in number but
were very resilient. They did not bow
to pressure from Cao's force. Since
then, Cao Cao had paid much attention
to Liu Xuan-de (Liu Bei's full name).
Mutiny within Yen Province
Just when Cao Cao readied to an-
nihilate Tao Qian in one final assault,
he received shocking news that Zhang
Mao, the Grand Administrator of
Chen-liu [City], Chen Gong, his
trusted advisor stationed at Dong-jun
[City], and Lu Bu, who escaped from
Chang-an, have conspired against him.
All but three commanderies have ral-
lied to their causes. Cao Cao quickly
called for a conference to discuss this
issue. He declared,
“If Yen Province is lost, then
we have no place to return.
Even if we take over Xu Prov-
ince, we would meet with
strong resistance. Hence, we
must think of something
quick.”
At that time, Liu Bei was about to
negotiate a cease-fire between Tao
Qian and Cao Cao.
Advisor Guo Jia suggested,
“Let’s agreed to this negotia-
tion for now. Our first priority
is to return to Yen Province as
soon as possible to deal with
Zhang Mao, as top priority.”
Cao Cao agreed and commanded
both Guo Jia and Cao Ren to start
negotiated terms for cease-fire. He
then led the main force to rush back to
Yen Province to deal with rebellion.
Cao Cao was caught complete sur-
prised of this rebellion especially,
from Zhang Mao and Chen Gong.
Zhang Mao had known Cao Cao since
they were kids. They have joined the
Alliance to fight against Dong Zhuo.
And he even let Cao Cao commanded
his main force. However, Cao Cao
political advancement had been steady
whereas Zhang Mao career was pretty
much stagnating as the Grand Admin-
istrator of Chen-liu. He became resent-
ful. And there was that incident
occurred at the Alliance where Zhang
Mao and Yuan Shao have a disagree-
ment. Yuan Shao urged Cao Cao to get
rid of Zhang Mao. Cao Cao refused
and Zhang Mao was grateful. Howev-
er, it also planted a seed of doubt of
wondering if Cao Cao would kill him
for political gain.
Chen Gong admired Cao Cao very
much and was willing to work for him.
Yet, Chen Gong was a man of high
standard. There were two incidents
that Chen Gong began to doubt Cao
Cao as the right man to work for. First,
there was a retired minister who was
pro-Yuan Shu. He spoke out against
Cao Cao when the later fought Yuan
Shu. Cao Cao had the man executed
for disrupting troop morale. However,
the widow was known for her beauty.
Cao Cao was a lecherous man and had
her as a mistress. This caused others to
view the execution to be motivated
more than just disrupting troop mo-
rale. Then when Cao Cao decided to
attack Tao Qian, Chen Gong begged
him not to for he was a friend of Tao
Qian. But Cao Cao did not listen and
forced Chen Gong to remain behind.
Then the news of massacre furthered
split between Chen Gong and Cao Cao.
Lu Bu arrived just as Cao Cao left
for Xu Province. After escaped from
Chang-an, he had served under Yuan
Shu and then Yuan Shao. Despite his
efforts, neither leader trusted him
enough to give him sufficient sup-
ports. Lu Bu left them and sought his
fortune at Yen Province. He met up
with Zhang Mao. There was a good
chemistry between them. Then Chen
Gong came and joined them. Together,
they persuaded others to their cause.
The news of Cao atrocities also bore
significant influence to localities to
join Zhang Mao and Chen Gong.
Weight of a Thousand Hangs
by a Thread of Hair
Zhen-cheng under Xun Yu, Pu-
yang under Xiahou Dun, Fan-cheng
under Lei Yun, and Dong-a [City] un-
der Z?o Zhi were still pro-Cao Cao.
Chen Gong planned to eliminate these
four before Cao Cao returned. On the
eve of rebellion, Zhang Mao sent rep-
resentative to request Xun Yu to sup-
ply Lu Bu. While everyone was
confused with such requests, Xun Yu
was able to guess the intention behind
it. He quickly mobilized troops to
strength the defense and asked Pu-
Lu Bu
the Wolf of Central
Plain, set his eyes on
Yen Province
Dragon Dynasty CCG
Zhang Mao
the big brother who
could not stand the
fact that Cao Cao was
ahead of him.
Dragon Dynasty CCG

yang for assistance. Xiahou Dun led
loyal troops to travel at night to Zhen-
cheng. Together, they were able to put
down several divisions that were about
to answer Zhang Mao's call. Zhen-
cheng situation was stabilized.
Then the news of the arrival of
Guo Gong, Inspector of Yu Province
who had led main force of several tens
of thousands troops toward Zhen-
cheng, had caught them by surprise.
Everyone feared for the worse. Upon
arrival, Guo Gong requested for one-
to-one parley with Xun Yu. Xiahou
Dun objected such parley because Xun
Yu was too crucial to go into un-
known. Xun Yu replied that he be-
lieved that there was no
communication between Guo Gong
and Zhang Mao. Guo Gong arrived too
soon for a coordinate attack. It's better
to persuade Guo Gong to remain neu-
tral else if he joined Lu Bu, they would
be hard-press to defend.
Xun Yu met Guo Gong on one on
one parley. There was no fear on Xun
Yu, Guo Gong thought that Zhen-
cheng was well defended. He then
returned back to Yu Province.
Situation at Zhen-cheng had been
stabilized. From the capture troops,
Xun Yu learned that Chen Gong
would personally led troops to attack
Dong-a [City] and send an agent to
persuade Fan-cheng to mutiny. Cheng
Yu volunteered to go help defend Fan-
cheng. v, who was the commander of
Fan-cheng, had learned that his family
has been held hostage by Lu Bu.
Cheng Yu arrived and analyzed cur-
rent situation to worrisome Lei Yun.
“Rumor has it that Lu Bu has
captured your mother, wife
and children. Your filial duty
may force you to do some-
thing regretful. Please calm
down. Nowadays the world is
in chaos. Many able lords ap-
peared. Among them, there
will be one who is qualified to
pacify the world. Therefore,
an intelligent man must con-
sider carefully and select the
correct lord to follow. For
one's fate would be depended
on the fortune of his lord.
Chen Gong rebelled and sup-
ported Lu Bu. Many local gov-
ernment answered his call.
This might seemed to be the
right thing to do. On contrary,
if sir only observed carefully,
he would know what kind of
leader Lu Bu is. He is proud,
conceited, and unable to en-
dear himself with his follow-
ers. He is stubborn and doesn't
know how to respect gentle-
men. He is simply a buffoon.
If one does not understand
politic, even if he has massive
troops, he would not be able to
accomplish anything. General
Cao is famous for his intelli-
gence, bravery, and resource-
fulness. He is surely ordained
by Heaven! General, if you
would only defend Fan-cheng,
and I Dong-a, together, our
efforts would be as great as
ancient Tian Dan's Herculean
effort of restored Qi State. If
you were to submit to the
agent of Chen Gong and dis-
card loyalty to embrace evil,
one day would be the death of
your entire clan. General,
please consider it carefully.“
After listen to Cheng Yu's analy-
sis, Lei Z?o maintained his loyalty and
executed the agent of Chen Gong.
Cheng Yu sent cavalry to destroy
available bridges to Fan-cheng and
Dong-a in order to delay Chen Gong's
advancement. By the time Cheng Yu
arrived to Dong-a, Zhao Zho was al-
ready mobilize entire city to help
strengthen and to store supplies to
withstand the siege.
Zhen-cheng, Fan-cheng and
Dong-a have been successfully de-
fended, this gave Cao Cao bases to
reverse the situation. An in this crisis,
Cheng Yu had accomplished the most.
Cao Cao appreciated his efforts and
recommended the government to ap-
point Cheng Yu to the position of the
Pacify Minister of Eastern Region.
While situation at Zhen-cheng was
crucial, Xiahou Dun traveled lightly to
assist Xun Yu. When he returned, he
found that Lu Bu had approached Pu-
yang rapidly. Xiahou Dun did not have
sufficient supplies nor men power to
engage the enemy. Pu-yang was lost.
And while retreated, part of troops
rebelled and held Xiahou Dun hostage.
The entire army had nearly collapsed.
Lieutenant General Han Hao behaved
calmly, he able to deduct that rene-
gades were interested in money and
not necessary wanted to harm Xiahou
Dun. So he soothed remaining troops
and maintained harsh stance against
renegades. Finally they gave in and
surrender, Xiahou Dun was rescued in
Cheng Yu
the perfect advisor
of Cao Cao
Dragon Dynasty CCG
“... if sir only ob-
served carefully, he
would know what
kind of leader Lu Bu
is ... ”
Cheng Yu
...continue on page 36

Late Han Dynasty Bureaucracy
Much of government structure in
the Han Dynasty was inherited from
the Qin Dynasty. The system of gov-
ernment was improved upon by suc-
ceeding dynasties till the familiar
concept, to most Westerners, was
achieved in the Tang & the Sung Dy-
nasty. In the Han Dynasty, the transi-
tion of ministers from being the
emperor's assistants to the officers of
the empire was still apparent. Certain
position within the Nine Ministries
still sounded like majordomo. There
are two levels of government, the cen-
tral who decided the fate of the nation
and the local who governed the liveli-
hood of everyone in the jurisdiction.
Government officials received
monthly salary in both shih (bushel) of
grains and coins even though their
salary grades still listed in terms of
shih. Monetary wise, this translated 1
bushel of grains into 70-80 coins in
Former Han and 100 coins in Later
Han.
The highest positions in the Late
Han central government were the
Grand Commandant (Tai-wei), the
Minister over the Masses (Si-tu), and
the Minister of Works (Si-kong). Col-
lectively, they were referred to as the
Three Excellencies (San Kung). They
ranked
First Class
at 10,000
shih.
The
Grand
Comman-
dant took
charge of
military af-
fair. Be-
side in
charge of
military af-
fair, he is
also super-
vised offi-
cialdoms
of the
Grand
Master of
Ceremo-
nies, the
Superin-
tendent of
the Impe-
rial House-
hold, and
the Com-
mandant
of the
Guard.
The Minister over the Masses han-
dled domestic affair. He prepared an-
nual budget and presided over Court
Conference when the Emperor is un-
able to attend. He oversaw official-
doms of the Grand Coachman, the
Commandant of Justice, and the Grand
Herald.
The Minister of Works assisted the
Minister over the Masses. He reviewed
officialdoms of the Director of the
Imperial Clan, the Grand Minister of
Agriculture, and the Privy Treasurer.
The Three Excellencies jointly in-
spected all aspect of local government.
Their reports were the basis for official
promotion and demotion. The throne
depended their advises. Together, they
share the censorial and advisory of
officialdom. The Three Excellencies
can propose policy procedure jointly
or singly on their own initiatives.
Below The Three Excellencies are
the Nine Ministers (Chiu-q'ing) who
headed various ministries. They are
the Grand Master of Ceremonies (Tai-
chang), the Superintendent of the Im-
perial Household (Guang-lu-xun), the
Commandant of the Guard (Wei-wei),
the Grand Coachman (Tai-pu), the
Commandant of Justice (Yan-wei), the
Grand Herald (Da-hong-liu), the Di-
rector of the Imperial Clan (Zong-
zheng), the Grand Minister of Agricul-
ture (Da-si-nong), and the Privy Trea-
surer (Shao-fu). They ranked Second
Class at Fully 2,000 shih.
The Grand Master of Ceremonies
was in charge of state rituals. He an-
nounced the appropriate protocol in
advance, and assisted the emperor dur-
ing the ceremonies. His office in-
spected imperial graves once a month.
He has department that recorded ob-
servatory, divination, portents and
auspicious omens. The Grand Master
of Ceremonies selected auspicious
date for a given task.
Ranking Salary Grade Monthly Income
First Class 10,000 shih
350 bushels of grains &
33,950 coins
Second Class Fully 2,000 shih
16,950 coins
Third Class 2,000 shih
10,950 coins
Fourth Class Equivalent to 2,000 shih
8,950 coins
Fifth Class 1,000 shih
7,950 coins
Sixth Class Equivalent to 1,000 shih
6,950 coins
Seventh Class 600 shih
5,950 coins
Eight Class Equivalent to 600 shih
4,950 coins
Nine Class 400 shih
3,950 coins
Tenth Class Equivalent to 400 shih
3,450 coins
Eleven Class 300 shih
2,950 coins
Twelve Class Equivalent to 300 shih
2,650 coins
Table 1: Late Han Government Classification of Position
Official
Position

The Superintendent of the Impe-
rial Household was in charge of em-
peror's protection within the public
parts of the palace compounds and for
protecting the emperor on his excur-
sions from the palace. He has officials
who served the emperor with advice
and criticism, and of the Imperial In-
ternuncios. Imperial Internuncios as-
sisted at imperial ceremonies,
condoled on behalf of the emperor at
the death of medium-level officials,
and did various kinds of errands for the
government, in the capital, in the prov-
inces, and even beyond the borders of
the empire.
The Commandant of the Guard
oversaw entire palace security. Con-
scripts manned the entrances to the
palace compounds and stationed
guardhouses by palace walls. They
patrolled along the walls, the covered
passageways, and palace lanes. Their
tour of duty is 1 year. At the end, they
attended feast presented by the em-
peror before rotated to another area.
The Grand Coachman was in
charge all things related to horses. He
had to provided horses for the army,
horses for the imperial stables, and
horses for various imperial carriages.
There were 36 pastures throughout
northern China where horses were
raised and trained.
The Commandant of Justice was
the interpreter of the laws. He sat on
dubious trials conducted in Imperial
Prison, which is but a part of his min-
istry. His ministry sent representatives
to assist local administrators on certain
trials. The Commandant of Justice also
maintained the standards of measure-
ment.
The Grand Herald handled foreign
affair. He represented the government
when receiving distant dignitaries and
1st Class
2nd Class
3rd Class
4th Class
5th Class
6th Class
7th Class
8th Class
9th Class
10th Class
11th Class
12th Class
Emperor
Three Excellencies
Nine Ministers
General-in-Chief / Duke
Provincial Shepherd
Grand Administrator
Gentlemen-of-the-Palace
Gentlemen-in-Attendants
Gentlemen-of-the-Household
General of the Gentlemen...
Colonel of the City Gate
Marquis
Master of Writing
Bearer of Gilded Mace
Provincial Inspector
Prefect of large population
Prefect from smaller population
Major
Three Grand
Ranking of Officials in the
Late Han Dynasty

nobility. When kings passed away, he
represented the government by memo-
rialized the posthumous names of
kings and full marquises. And he also
advised the right of succession to king-
doms and commanderies. The Grand
Herald negotiated treaties and con-
ferred titles to barbarian princes who
pay visit to the capital. In imperial
ceremonies, while the Grand Master of
Ceremonies was responsible for the
proper performance of the ritual and
for guiding the emperor through its
intricacies, the Grand Herald assisted
various officers, nobles, and foreigners
of their appropriate places and roles.
The Director of the Imperial Clan
kept track of imperial lineage and rela-
tives. These records were updated
once a year at the New
Year. New members were
added and status of king-
doms and commanderies
were reviewed. And if any
imperial relatives have
found guilty, the Director of
the Imperial Clan has to
present the case to the em-
peror who would decide ap-
propriate punishment.
The Grand Minister of
Agriculture kept track of
national treasury. Though
the collection and the trans-
portation of taxes in form of
goods or money resided on
the shoulder of local gov-
ernment, the Grand Minis-
ter of Agriculture took over
once these have been stored
and properly recorded.
From his storehouses, he
fed the civil services and the
army. He maintained price
stabilization by regulated
the flow from his storehous-
es. It could be said that the
Minister Over the Masses
drew the budget, and the
Grand Minister of Agriculture paid the
bill.
And the Privy Treasurer is palace
steward. He is the only minister who
served the emperor. However, he was
not a eunuch despite majority of his
staff were. He oversaw those who
worked in palaces and performed bu-
reaucratic duties for the emperor. The
Privy Treasurer was in charge of cer-
tain intimate advisers and attendants of
the emperor. In addition, he was re-
sponsible for the emperor and his fam-
ily's well beings and comfort. In
Former Han, Privy Treasurer did con-
trol the purse string of the emperor.
But by Late Han, it was declared that
national treasury was emperor's trea-
sury that responsibility went to the
Grand Minister of Agriculture. How-
ever, the Grand Minister of Agricul-
ture often approved the Privy
Treasurer's requisition.
The Three Excellencies and the
Nine Ministers often walked with Em-
peror (huang-di) to decide on Late Han
Dynasty's national policy. Each Excel-
lency and Ministry was allowed to
have a company (100) of guardsmen to
protect them. They formed the core
central government, in theory.
However, since the birth of dynas-
ty, the actual power gradually fell onto
the Master of Writing (Shang-shu).
Originally, the Master of Writing was
Emperor's personal secretary and un-
der the Privy Treasurer Ministry. He
was the one who write down imperial
edicts, the Master of Writing was able
to influence the court by choice of
words appeared next to imperial seal.
Toward the twilight of Late Han dy-
nasty, Three Excellencies were noth-
ing more than figureheads similar to
the emperor. For instance, Wang Yun,
who plotted the assassination of Dong
Zhuo, had held both positions of the
Minister over the Masses and the Head
Master of Writing (Shang-shu-ling) so
that he could enforce domestic poli-
cies.
There were numerous attempts to
install position above the Three Excel-
lencies with actual power. For exam-
ple, once Dong Zhuo came to power,
he promoted himself to the Minister of
Kingdom (Xiang-guo), which was
above the Three Excellencies. Later,
after he burned down Luo-yang, Dong
Zhuo awarded himself with additional
position of the Grand Commander
(Tai-shuai) to hold on to military pow-
er. When Cao Cao took over daily
administration of central government,
he renamed the Minister Over the
Masses (Si-tu) to the Chancellor
(Cheng-xiang) and the Minister of
Works (si-kong) became the Grandee
Secretary (Yu-shi-dai-fu). He then be-
came Chancellor as a move to dispel
impotence of three grand official posi-
tions.
The Three Kingdoms Era
After a period of adjusted and re-
defined under Dong Zhuo and Cao
Cao administration, a new high official
appeared during three kingdoms peri-
od. Five high officials of central gov-
ernment system of the Wei Kingdom
were the Chancellor (cheng-xiang or
xiang-guo ), the Grand Tutor (tai-fu),
the Grand Protector (tai-bao), the
Grand Minister of War (tai-si-ma), and
the General-in-Chief (dai-jiang-jun).
These officials replaced the Three Ex-
cellencies though not all were created
within same period of time. Later on,
both the Grand Minister of War and
the General-in-Chief were removed
from political decision-making and
concentrated strictly on military af-
fairs.
With the formation of the Wei
Kingdom, the Grand Commandant,
the Minister Over the Masses, and
Nine Ministers
Typical Minister
Courtesy of Koei´s Sangokushi
Engi Paper & Pencil Rolegame

Minister of Works were briefly re-
vived during the Wei Emperor Ming
era (226 A.D. to 239 A.D.) to handle
domestic affairs. After his death, the
Grand Commandant Si-ma Yi and the
General-in-Chief Cao Shuang proceed
to place themselves above the Three
Excellencies during their infighting.
After a successful coup to overthrow
Cao Shuang in 249 A.D., Si-ma Yi
became the Grand Tutor. He gained
the control of the imperial court. After
his death, his eldest son, Si-ma Shuai,
became the General-in-Chief when he
forced the Wei emperor to abdicate.
His younger brother, Si-ma Zhao, rose
to the General-in-Chief and then to the
Chancellor under the Jin Dynasty. He
was even more a power monger at
controlling the imperial court.
When the Shu Kingdom came into
existence, there was only the Minister
over the Masses which Xu Jing had
held. It was obvious that they have
abandoned the Three Excellencies po-
sitions since no one else had occupied
other two. Even Zhu-ge Liang had
only occupied the Chancellor position
from 221 A.D. to 234 A.D. He con-
trolled much of the Shu political oper-
ation when he was not busy waging
war against the Wei Kingdom. Jiang
Wei, Zhu-ge Liang's successor, had
held the General-in-Chief position and
later became the Commander-in-Chief
when the Sleeping Dragon passed
away. Unfortunately, by then, Shu
court politic had been in the eunuch,
Huang Hao, control.
The Wu Kingdom initially did not
have the Three Excellencies positions.
Instead, three successive Chancellors
handled the Wu politics. After Sun
Quan's death, Zhu-ge Ge, son of Zhu-
ge Jing, took control of the Wu court
as Grandee because Sun Liang, the
heir, was still young. Later, Sun Jun,
blood relative of the founder, plotted a
successful coup against Zhu-ge Ge and
became the Chancellor. After him, his
cousin, Sun Lin, became the General-
in-Chief. He forced Sun Liang to ab-
dict his position in imitation of Si-ma
Shuai and placed Sun Xiu on the
throne. Yet, when he elevated to the
Chancellor, Sun Xiu have him killed.
Since then, there was no dominated
person in control of the Wu court. And
the power fell rightfully back to the
Chancellor.
Since then, every successive dy-
nasty had the Chancellor, the Grandee,
the General-in-Chief, and the Com-
mander-in-Chief as highest imperial
officials. They replaced traditional
role of the Grand Commandant, the
Minster Over the Masses, and the Min-
ister of Works of bygone era.
Core Military Officials
There were several military type
personnel that worked closely with the
central government and the emperor.
The most visible position is Bearer of
the Gilded Mace (chih-chin wu).
Though not part of Nine Ministers, he
was considered to be an element of
Central Government. He is the only
one who allowed to station large num-
ber of troops around the capital. No
other army was allowed to approach
the capital. His responsibility included
to upheld law and order within the
capital except the palace precincts. In
late Late Han period when Yuan Shao
led the massacre of eunuchs, Ding
Yuan was Bearer of the Gilded Mace.
He was the reason that Dong Zhuo was
unable to march his troops into Luo-
yang. At that time, Dong Zhuo had
only three thousands troops from Xi-
liang. He bribed Lu Bu, adopted son of
Ding Yuan, to assassinate his foster
father. In Romance of Three King-
doms novel, it stated that Dong Zhuo
wanted Lu Bu. In reality, Dong Zhuo
desired those troops under Bearer of
the Gilded Mace.
Next line of defense of emperor's
safety is Commandant of the Guard
(Wei-wei), who was part of the Nine
Ministers as mentioned above. His re-
sponsibility included security within
palace and has troops to patrol the
surrounding. In late Late Han period,
Ma Teng, an ally of Cao Cao, held the
position of Commandant of the Guard.
In Romance of the Three Kingdoms,
Ma Teng's entire family was executed
for his involvement in attempt to over-
throw Cao Cao; Ma Chao, son of Ma
Teng, was at Xi-liang and raised an
army against Cao Cao. But in reality,
Ma Chao opposed Cao Cao expansion
into Xi-liang. He raised troops as re-
bellion and Ma Teng was killed be-
cause of it.
Superintendent of the Imperial
Household, who was also part of the
Nine Ministers, was personally re-
sponsible for emperor's safety. He had
smallest number of troops when com-
pared to Bearer of the Gilded Mace
and Commandant of the Guard. There
were five units under his control that
were collectively noted as Gentleman
Official (lang-guan). Commander of
each division was known as General of
Gentleman (zhong-lang jiang). The
candidates were nominated by other
ministers, governors, and ministers.
Those fifty and over joined Gentle-
men-of-the-Household for All Purpose
(wu-guan zhong-lang). Those less than
fifty years old joined either Gentle-
men-of-the-Household of the Left
(zuo-zhong lang) or Gentlemen-of-
the-Household of the Right (you-
zhong lang). These units acted as pro-
bation for the candidates. They served
as bodyguards within the palace com-
pounds, especially at inner gates and
doors. When emperor was outside of
palace, they protected his chariot. First
to break this tradition was Cao Pi,
second son of Cao Cao, who received
Central
Gentleman
General

both titles of Gentlemen-of-the-
Household for All Purpose and Vice
Chancellor in 221 A.D. before he was
fifty years old. Other two Gentlemen
units were strictly warriors. One unit
was the Gentlemen Rapid as Tigers
(gu-bi lang). They were selected
among the best of palace guards and
capital soldiers. They were very good
at fighting. Yuan Shu was the General
of the Gentlemen-of-the-Household
Rapid as Tigers. Other unit was Gen-
tleman of the Feathered Forest (yu-lin
lang). They were the cavalry unit.
They were exclusive selected from
either Liang-zhou or Gong-zhou in
western part of China. Dong Zhuo, the
Tiger of Liang-zhou, early position
was Yu-lin-zhong-lang-jiang.
During Crisis of Yellow Turbans,
Gentlemen Corps received more re-
sponsibilities. Then, Choa-ting (the
imperial court) sent Gentleman-of-the-
Household of the Left, Huang Fu-
song, and Gentleman-of-the-House-
hold of the Right, Zhu Juan, to pacify
Yellow Turbans. Since then, Gentle-
men Corps have changed from emper-
or's personal bodyguards to high rank
military officers. Originally, only gen-
eral were allowed to lead troops for
such mission. During Han dynasty and
even in modern days, generalship was
a very prestigious status. And one
must be appointed to generalship be-
fore taking troops for such mission.
Only because of Yellow Turbans crisis
that Gentlemen Corps were allowed to
lead troops. After their successful mis-
sion, Huang Fu-song became General
of Chariot & Cavalry of the Left (zuo-
ju-qi-jiang-jun) and Zhu Juan became
General of Chariot & Cavalry of the
Right (you-ju-qi-jiang-jun).
To further contain the spread of
Yellow Turbans, Choa-ting
(government) had set up four addi-
tional positions for Gentlemen Offi-
cers. They were the East (dong), the
West (xi), The South (nan), and the
North (bei). They were commonly
known together as General Gentle-
men-of-the-Household of the Four
Corners (si-zhong lang-jiang). Lu Zhi
was General Gentlemen-of-the-
Household of the North (bei-zhong-
lang-jiang) whose mission was to
bring down Zhang Jiao, the instigator
of Yellow Turbans. Dong Zhuo had
the title of General Gentlemen-of-the-
Household of the East (dong-zhong-
lang-jiang) when he was on a military
operation. The General Gentlemen-of-
the-Household of the Four Corners
was like general but without the status
nor prestige of generalship. Under Cao
Cao administration, the role of General
Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the
Four Corners was furthered clarified
and became part of central government
in the Wei and the Jin dynasties. Cao
Cao had promoted Cheng Yu to Gen-
eral Gentlemen-of-the-Household of
the East (dong-zhong-lang-jiang). He
was instructed to protect and prevent
any aggression of Liu Bei from Xu-
zhou. Later, Cao Cao appointed his
fourth son, Cao Zhang, to General
Gentlemen-of-the-Household of the
North (bei-zhong-lang-jiang) who
traveled northward and conquered
Wuhuan barbarians. When Guan Yu
surrounded Cao Ren, who was Gen-
eral who Pacify the South (zheng-nan-
jiang-jun), Cao Cao commissioned his
third son, Cao Zhi, as General Gentle-
men-of-the-Household of the South
(nan-zhong-lang-jiang), for rescue op-
eration. The Gentlemen General-of-
the-Household of the Four Corners
(si-zhong-lang-jiang) was responsible
for each directional military operation.
In military ranking, they were a step
below general.
Like generals, there were some
creative titles bestow to General Gen-
tlemen-of-the-Household (zhong-
lang-jiang). This practice was espe-
cially popular among the pre-Wu and
the pre-Shu kingdoms. For Sun Ce and
Sun Quan, they received the title of
General Who Captures (tao-lu-jiang-
jun). If they were to promote their
followers to generalship, then they
would be of equal ranking. Therefore,
Zhou Yu was known as General Gen-
tleman-of-the-Household Who Causes
Awe (jian-wei-zhong-lang-jiang) and
Cheng Pu was known as General Gen-
tleman-of-the-Household Who Sway
Bandits (dang-kou-zhong-lang-jiang)
prior the Battle of Chi-bi. Once the
battle was won and in controlled Jing-
zhou, Sun Quan promoted himself to
Acting General of Chariot & Cavalry
(dai-li-ju-qi jiang-jun), Zhou Yu pro-
moted to Lieutenant General (pian ji-
ang) and Cheng Pu became Major
General (bi jiang), of which latter two
were on bottom rank of generalship.
The situation was similar if not worse
for Liu Bei who received the title of
General of Left Army and Lord of
Yicheng. He, too, had to bestow exotic
General Gentlemen-of-the-Household
(zhong-lang-jiang) titles to his follow-
ers. Zhu-ge Liang was once known as
General Gentlemen-of-the-Household
of the Military Strategist (Jun-shi
zhong-lang jiang).
Local Government
There were 13 provinces (zhou)
that composed of Late Han Dynasty.
Each province was further broken
down into kingdoms, commanderies
(jun) and prefectures (xian). Inspectors
(zhou-shi) were appointed by the
Grandee Secretary. Their function is to
report performances of Grand Admin-
istrators within a given province.
Kingdoms were composed of few
commanderies. Kings (wang) were
relatives of imperial family. They may
advise Grand Administrators within
their kingdoms on certain issues, but
have little or no power themselves.
Local
Officials

Instead, Kings often received a gov-
ernment title, Grand Administrator,
and a military position, a generalship,
as means to impose his will. Grand
Administrator (jun-tai-shou) governed
commandery. He had full controls of
civilian and military affairs, including
civil and criminal laws. Prefect (xian-
ling) administered prefectures of more
than 10,000 households while Chief
(chang) governed prefectures with less
than 10,000 households. Grand Ad-
ministrators and Perfects have direct
control over their jurisdiction. Inspec-
tors only have advisory roles. These
positions were appointed by respective
Three Excellencies with recommenda-
tions from Nine Ministers.
Since 188 A.D., Inspector (zhou-
shi) was renamed as Shepherd (zhou-
mu) based from Liu Yan's recommen-
dation. The newly created position
would have full controls of civil and
military affair at provincial level. Liu
Yan believed that it would allow Shep-
herd to better arm and fight against
bandits and rebels. It was a major step
to lessen the control that Core Govern-
ment had over Local Government.
Since then both Inspector and Shep-
herd were used interchangeable in de-
scribing provincial governor's title.
But Shepherd has a higher rank, Third
Class (2,000 shih), than Inspector,
Seventh Class (600 shih). For exam-
ple, Kong Rong was originally Inspec-
tor of Xu Province. After a successful
lobby attempt, he became Shepherd of
Xu Province and General Who Paci-
fied the East (an-dong jiang-jun), in
addition to become Marquise of Li-
yang, a noble. Liu Biao was originally
Inspector of Jing Province. He offered
tributes to Li Jue and Guo Si, and
became Shepherd of Jing-zhou and
General Who Shook the South (zhen-
nan jiang-jun). He also received a title
of nobility, Marquise of Cheng-wu.
There were numerous records of In-
spector elevated to Shepherd and re-
ceived both a generalship and title of
nobility. A notable exception was
when Lu Bu seized Xu Province from
Liu Bei, he declared to be Inspector.
When he petitioned the Han govern-
ment to elevate his position to Shep-
herd, Cao Cao denied Lu Bu's claim.
Entering Civil Service
The system of entering civil ser-
vice in Late Han Dynasty is the fore-
runner of famous Chinese civil
examination system. Though it was
open to all free men, merchant class
was excluded. It was possible that cer-
tain exceptions were made due to in-
tense lobby. The civil service
recruitment system was more of a 7-
part recommendation and a 3-part ex-
amination.
The highest honor was to receive
imperial summon from either the em-
peror or recommendation from high
officials. The honoree was usually pre-
viously worked in government and had
retired or was famous for his knowl-
edge of certain field. Furthermore, the
carriage that was sent for the honoree
also hinted the degree of importance.
Normally, the Official Carriage (kung-
chu) was sent to bring the person to the
capital. The Comfortable Carriage (an-
chu) was for person who the ruler
deemed wroth extra courtesy. The
Comfortable Carriage with Wheels
Wrapped in Rushes (an-chu p'u lun)
reserved for person of highest honor.
However, the imperial summon did
not guarantee an employment. If the
candidate did not perceive to live up to
imperial expectation, he would send
away. It was possible to refuse the
imperial summon, though it was rarely
done.
Nepotism was another avenue of
entering civil service, as it was the
perk of high-ranking officials. Nepo-
tism or the jen privilege was reserved
for officers of ranking Third Class
(2,000 shih) or higher. At the end of
three years probation, these ministers
could recommend a close relative into
the service. These candidates are then
Typical scholar
exam cell
Courtesy of Patricia Lin @
http://www.csupomona.edu/
~plin/ls201/confucian3.html

place into the Gentlemen Officials
(lang-guan) as their probation period.
And based on their performance there,
they may then assign to a ministry and
become fully part of central govern-
ment. Early on, this policy had been
attacked numerous times as they cause
for corruption because it did not prop-
erly reflect the merit of individual can-
didates. Jen privilege had been
publicly revoked and then quietly rein-
stated as the back door.
Recommendatory System was
second most common way for one to
enter civil service. The most com-
monly known is the induction of Fil-
ially Pious and Incorrupt (hsiao-lien).
Each kingdom and each commandery
administrator can recommend two
people as Filially Pious and Incorrupt
every year. Though this may also open
to corruption, there were 2 hurdles for
potentials to go pass. First, upon ar-
rived to the capital, escorted by an
officer from commandery administra-
tor or king, the Filially Pious and In-
corrupt had to take a written
examination oversaw by the Minister
of Writings. Candidates were tested
for their knowledge of Five Classics
and the ability to draft a document.
Those who passed the examination
have to go through probation period as
member of Gentlemen Officials (lang-
guan). This could be as short as 3 years
to, indefinite. Commandery adminis-
trator and kingdom minister would be
dismissed if their recommendation
was less than what he claimed to be.
Academy was another popular av-
enue for one to enter civil service. In
Former Han, many topics were taught.
But Late Han, only 5 topics: Book of
Changes, Book of Documents, Book
of Odes, Book of Rites, and the Spring
and Autumn Annals with the Kung-
yang Commentary were taught.
Throughout Han Dynasty, Academy
had its up and downs. At lowest point,
buildings were deteriorated; herd ani-
mals grazed in the gardens; exotic
trees were chopped down as firewood.
At its prime, 112,000 convicts built
240 buildings and 1850 rooms. Sons
of officials down to Seventh Class
(600 shih) ranks attended the Acade-
my. By middle of the second century,
there were more than 30,000 students
studied there. Annually, there were
three levels of difficult examination
that student could decide to take. Only
top 40 students, who passed the high-
est level of examination, could become
Gentlemen-of-the-Palace. Only top 20
students, who passed the middle level
of examination, could become mem-
bers of the Suite of the Heir-apparent.
Both were probationary positions in
the capital. Only top 40 students, who
passed the lowest level of examina-
tion, could become Literary Scholars
on Ancient Matters. These were proba-
tionary offices for commanderies and
kingdoms.
Toward twilight of Late Han Peri-
od, government was often resorted to
the sale of offices. Positions of Three
Excellencies were worth from 20,000
to 30,000 coins. Positions of Nine
Ministries were worth from 10,000 to
15,000 coins. Cao Song, father of Cao
Cao, had spent a million chien (coins)
for the Office of Grand Commandant.
Nobility
The oldest officially recognized
Chinese dynasty is the Shang. When
Zhou finally overthrew it, Clan Chief
Ji Fa declared himself as King (wang)
Wu and honored his father as King
Wen. Zhou King rewarded his loyal
subjects and allied tribal leaders with
title of nobility. They ranged from
Baron (nan-jue), Viscount (zi-jue),
Count (bo-jue), Marquise (hou-jue)
and Duke (gong-jue). At the end of
Zhou Dynasty, rival nobles began to
fight among them. During the Warring
State era, those with enough military
strength have declared themselves as
king. Previously, the honorific title
was Gentleman (jun) and it was used
up to the end of Spring and Autumn
era.
Soon after China was reunited un-
der Qin dynasty, a new title, Emperor
(huang-di, huang or di), was created to
denote status above King. First Em-
peror of Qin (qin-shi huang-di) took
away all nobility status to prevent any
future infighting like that of Warring
States. However, when the word of his
death had gotten out, people began to
rebel and revived old traditions.
Among those contenders were Xiang
Yu and Liu Bang. Xiang Yu came
from old noble family of Chu. He re-
warded allies and followers with titles
of nobility. Xiang Yu was content to
be the Overlord of Western Chu and
let other nobles to squabble remaining
China among them.
Liu Bang came from commoner's
background. Like Xiang Yu, he ini-
tially gave out nobility to allies and
loyal subject in his struggle for su-
Nobility
Title
Emperor aka
Huang-Di

Sun Jian, Scion of Sun-tze
In early days of the Three King-
doms, none was every victorious as
Sun Jian. Unfortunately, in the Ro-
mance of the Three Kingdoms, his
position was relegated as footnote and
his achievement was credited to some-
one else. Unlike all other contenders,
Sun Jian rose from being a commoner
to achieve nobility. And his sons car-
ried it even further to become the lon-
gest reigned Wu Kingdom during the
Three Kingdoms period. Through this
article, hopefully, reader would find
Sun Jian an interesting character. Be-
low is the translation of Sun Jian from
San-gu-zhi, The Ambitions of Three
Kingdoms (ATK), the official histori-
cal records. And see how he differed
from the more popular novel, Ro-
mance of the Three Kingdoms (RTK).
Before the Yellow Turbans
Sun Jian , his given name is Wen-
tai (Towering Scholar), born in 156
AD in Wu Commandery, Fu-chun Pre-
fecture (in modern day Jiangsu prov-
ince, Zhejiang Fu-chun Prefecture).
He was the descendant of the fame
military strategist, Sun-tse of the
Spring & Autumn era. In his teen, Sun
Jian was a minor prefecture govern-
ment official. At age seventeen, he
traveled with his father to Qian-tang
by boat. Along the way, his boat had
stopped fear when the river pirate, Hu
Yu, and gangs were divided loots on
land after a robbery. Boat captain
feared to move forward.
Sun Jian told his father,
“These river pirates can be de-
feated. Please grant me per-
mission to kill them.”
His father replied,
“It is none of your business.”
Nonetheless, Sun Jian took upon
himself with blade in hand, to fight
with river pirates. He point to left and
to right as if he was coordinate large-
scale operation to encircle those pi-
rates. His opponents thought that the
government
troops were com-
ing after them.
They abandoned
their loots and
dispersed. Sun
Jian chased after
one and cut off
his head. His fa-
ther was shocked
and Sun Jian be-
came famous.
Government pro-
moted Sun Jian to
Acting Comman-
dant.
In the First
Year of Joyous
Peace (172 AD),
malicious bandit,
X? Chang, and
his son rebelled at
H?i-ji. Self styled
as Emperor
Morning Sun, he
raised more than
ten thousand followers. Sun Jian, as a
major of a prefecture armed force,
raised a thousand courageous warriors.
Worked in conjunction with other pre-
fecture forces, he defeated X? Chang,
and his son, destroyed the rebellion.
For his effort, Sun Jian was promoted.
Within few years and several prefec-
tures later, he became Assistant to Pre-
fecture Prefect.
Sun Ce was born in 175 AD and
Sun Quan was born in 182 AD.
During the Yellow Turbans
In the First Year of Central Peace
(184 AD), Yellow Turban leader,
Zhang Jiao began the rebellion at Wei
Commandery. He claimed to be in-
structed by the spirits who sent 8 heav-
enly emissaries to earth to enlighten
Heaven Below. Instead, he secretly
organized his cohorts and proclaimed
to be Yellow Heaven Peaceful Pacifi-
Sun Jian
whose names means
The Foundation for
House of Sun
Sun Jian’s Birthplace
Sun Jian
Courtesy of Creator Workshop Dragon Dy-
nasty CCG

cation. On March 1st, rebellion simul-
taneously began in 36 locations. They
burned down commandery and prefec-
ture government headquarters and
killed officials.
Han Emperor Ling sent General of
Chariot & Cavalry Huang Fu-song and
Gentleman-of-the-Household Zhu
Juan to lead armed forces against Yel-
low Turban bandits. Zhu Juan peti-
tioned to request for Sun Jian to
accompany him as Assisting Army
Major. His followers at Xia Pi were
willing to follow him into battle
against Yellow Turbans. Furthermore,
he raised additional troops from Xing
Shang, Huai Sh?i, and Si Sh?i area.
Sun Jian had over a thousand strong
when he joined up with Zhu Juan.
Everywhere he went, Sun Jian was
ever victorious and driven off Yellow
Turbans from N? Nan Commandery
and Q?ng Zhou Commandery. They
fled to W?n City and planned to make
their stand there. Sun Jian was the first
to climb over the wall. His troops fol-
lowed like hordes of ants. Yellow Tur-
bans were destroyed. Zhu Juan
reported Sun Jian's contribution to
Choa-ting (the imperial court). Sun
Jian had been promoted to District
Major.
Besides Yellow Turbans Rebel-
lions, there were other banditries that
needed to be put down. Bian Zhang
and Han Sui were causing chaos in
Liang Zhou. General Gentleman-of-
the-Household, Dong Zhuo, had failed
in his effort to bring those two to jus-
tice. In the Third Year of Central Peace
(187 AD), Choa-ting promoted Minis-
ter of Work, Zhang Wen, to General of
Chariot & Cavalry and tasked him to
rein in Bian Zhang and Han Sui.
Zhang Wen petitioned Sun Jian to ac-
company him.
While stationed at Chang-an,
Zhang Wen summoned Dong Zhuo
who arrived very late. Zhang Wen
rebuked Dong Zhuo who showed con-
tempt in his response. Sun Jian was
presented at the meeting, he whispered
to Zhang Wen,
“Dong Zhuo does not respect
the order and he is unkempt,
vicious, and rebellious. He is
like a wild vulture spreading
its wing. His words show no
propriety. He should be
charged with tardiness and
punishable by death."
Zhang Wen replied,
“Dong Zhuo is well respected
within these regions. If he is to
be executed, then we will lose
local supports to our effort.”
Sun Jian said,
“Enlightened Elder personally
leads troops of the Son of
Heaven, his awesomeness
shakes Heaven Below. Why
should he rely on Dong Zhuo?
By his tone and attitude, Dong
Zhuo does not humble himself
in the presence of Enlightened
Elder, he slighted his senior
officer and showed no respect.
That is his first crime. Dong
Zhuo allowed Bian Zhang and
Han Sui to germinate for years
and refused to do anything
about it. When he was tasked
to take on those rogues, he
said it could not be done. This
caused troop morale to sag and
doubt among officers. That is
his second crime. Dong Zhuo
had been ordered to bring Bian
Zhang and Han Sui to justice.
Yet, he had nothing to show
for his effort. Now, he was
summoned but arrived late. He
thought highly of himself and
no one else. That is his third
crime. All these are sufficient
ground for Dong Zhuo's exe-
cution. Fame generals of an-
tiquity, with the symbol of
authority given by his king,
always awed his troops by
publicly executed those who
have made minor transgres-
sion. This establishes order
and discipline. That is why
Xiang Qi? executed Zhuang
Ji? and Wei Jiang punished
Yang Gan1. Now, Enlight-
ened Elder shows concern for
Dong Zhuo and refuses to
punish. This will bring doubts
to order and discipline.”
Zhang Wen still did not have the
heart to issue the punishment, instead,
he says
“Lord Sun, please return to
your seat. Such whisper will
cause Dong Zhuo to be suspi-
cious.”
Sun Jian excused himself and left.
When Bian Zhang and Han Sui heard
of imperial troops marching toward
them, their followers abandoned them.
And they surrendered. Zhang Wen
brought back his force. Imperial Cen-
sor heard that no battle had occurred,
thus, no basis for giving out recogni-
tion and merit. Yet, when they heard of
the Three Charges Sun Jian had
brought against Dong Zhuo and asked
Zhang Wen to punish Dong Zhuo, they
sighted at the lost opportunity.
Sun Jian promoted to position of
Gentleman Consultant2 for his effort
in the pacification of Liang Province.
In Chang-sha Commandery, a bandit
leader, Qu Xing, called himself The
General and led over ten thousand
men. They sieged the city, Wei-yi.
Choa-ting promoted Sun Jian to be-
come the Grand Administrator3 of
Chang-sha. Upon arrived at the com-
mandery, he immediately to charge of
leading officials and troops. He pre-
“Dong Zhuo does not
respect the order and
he is unkempt, vicious,
and rebellious. ... He
should be charged with
tardiness and punish-
able by death.”
Sun Jian advising Zhang Wen
Dong Zhuo
Sun Jian and Dong
Zhuo have known
each other before
the coup.
Courtesy of Creator Work-
shop Dragon Dynasty CCG

pared defensive facilities and planned
for counterattack. Within a month, he
attacked Qu Xing and his bandits. In
nearby commanderies, Ling- ling and
Gui-yang, other bandits, Zhou Chao
and Guo Shi, responded to Qu Xing's
calling and raised troops to assist him.
Sun Jian crossed the boundary and
attacked those other rogue leaders in
their respective commandery. Soon,
all three commanderies were cleared
of pillagers. Choa-ting recognized Sun
Jian's merits and ennobled him to Mar-
quis of Ni?o-cheng Prefecture.
Against Dong Zhuo
After the death of Han Emperor
Ling, Dong Zhuo began to terrorize
Choa-ting. Many provincial inspectors
and commanderies grand administra-
tors raised army against him. Sun Jian
also mobilized his army. Wang Rui,
Inspector of Bing Province, had been
shown disrespect to Sun Jian for some
times now. As Sun Jian's troops
crissed into attacked Bing Province
and on his way to join the alliance. He
had eliminated Wang Rui.
By the time he arrived at Nan-yang
Commandery, Sun Jian had mobilized
hundred thousand some troops. Zhang
Zi, Grand Administrator of Nan- yang
Commandery knew Sun Jian's arrival.
Bit he did not care. Sun Jian sent food
and wine to Zhang Zi as a courtesy.
Several days later, Zhang Zi invited
Sun Jian to dinner as to returned the
favor. As both were drinking, Sun Ji-
an's staff, Master of Records, entered
and reported to him as followed.
“Our troops have arrived at
Nan- yang. But the roads of
Nan- yang were in disrepair.
Supplies that our troops have
requested were not forth com-
ing. Please arrest Nan- yang's
Master of Records in order to
interrogate him the reason for
such inactions.”
Zhang Zi was surprised and at-
tempted to escape. But Sun Jian al-
ready stationed his troops around the
building and trapped the Grand Ad-
ministrator of Nan- yang. Few minute
later, Sun Jian's Master of Record en-
tered and reported,
“The Grand Administrator of
Nan- yang has willfully hin-
dered our troops movement.
Our troops were not able to
attack in time. Please arrest the
Grand Administrator and have
him properly punished accord-
ing to the Law.”
Zhang Zi was taken out and been
beheaded at the military gate. People
of Nan- yang were shocked. They
quickly supplied everything Sun Jian's
troops have asked for. They continued
to Luo-yang. There, they met up with
Yuan Shu. He recommended that Sun
Jian to be promoted to General of
Breakthrough and Capture and also to
Inspector of Yu Zhou. Sun Jian estab-
lished and maintained troops disci-
plines at Lu-yang.
One day, Sun Jian and his officers
with small complement of troops were
outside of Lu-yang city and have just
finished the ceremony to reaffirm his
promised of eliminate the evil. News
of Dong Zhuo's tens of thousand
strong foot soldiers and cavalry came
to arrest Sun Jian. Initially, only tens
of Dong's light cavalry have arrived;
Sun Jian were still in midst of celebra-
tion. He ordered his troops to stand
ready and not to react against opposing
force. Gradually, Dong's force was
getting larger. Sun Jian slowly stop the
celebration and led his troops calmly
back into the city. Then he explains,
“When Dong's light cavalry
have appeared, I did not act for
Sun Jian’s Advance
City: Lu-yang
Capital: Luo-yang
Dong Zhou’s
Retreat
Of all the lords and
general in the Alli-
ance, none was more
successful in driving
out Dong Zhuo than
Sun Jian!

fear of panic the troops. Panic
would soon led to route as
troops hastened to return to the
safety of the city.”
Dong Zhuo saw Sun Jian's troops
withdraw in an orderly fashion, he
dared not siege the city. He, too, led
his troops back. Later, Sun Jian de-
cided to relocate to the east of Lu-
yang. However, there, they suffered
heavy attacks from Dong Zhuo. Sun
Jian and score of cavalry broke free
and fled. Since he always wore the red
turban, Sun Jian ordered fellow offi-
cer, Zu Mao, to wear his red turban
and to lead the pursuits away. Dong
forces were busy chase after Zu Mao,
Sun Jian and other fled away. When he
was about to be cornered, Zu Mao
jumped off the horse and placed the
red turban on top of a post. He hid in
the grass. When Dong Zhuo saw the
red turban, he ordered his troops to
surround it before he himself got close.
Once he realized that he had been
tricked, Dong Zhuo led his troops
away.
Sun Jian returned to Lu-yang and
gathered troops. He met up with allied
troops at area around Yang-ren. They
won against Dong Zhuo force and
slew Hua Xiong. By then, detractors
began to create doubt in Yuan Shu. He
cut off the supply to Sun Jian's force.
The distance from Yang-ren to Lu-
yang is some 30+ miles away. One
night, Sun Jian rode back to confront
Yuan Shu.
“I have forsake everything,
even myself to fought against
the enemy. This was to pacify
chaos for the country and to
avenge for House Yuan. There
was no hatred of kin-slaying
between Sun Jian and Dong
Zhuo. Yet, General listened to
others rumors and created
doubts!”
Yuan Shu had always respected
Sun Jian and felt uncertain of his
doubt. He granted the request to imme-
diately deliver the supply. Sun Jian
returned to camp that night.
Dong Zhuo began to fear Sun Jian
martial prowess. He sent his follower,
General Li Cui, to negotiate with Sun
Jian. Dong Zhuo wanted to establish
kinship through their children's mar-
riage. He would put Sun Jian's sons
and brothers into official recommen-
dation for promotion to province in-
spector or commandery grand
administrator.
Sun Jian replied,
“Dong Zhuo went against the
Heaven and had lost the Way;
he shook the social equilib-
rium and toppled Han Imperial
Family. His crime deserved no
less than execution of three
generation of Dong House and
his severed head is to be dis-
play as warning to Four Seas.
Without accomplish these, I
would not died in peace. Why
would I want to establish kin-
ship with him?"
After being supplied, Sun Jian re-
sumed to move to Grand Valley, about
23 miles southeast of Luo- yang. Upon
hearing the news, Dong Zhuo evacu-
ated the capital and relocated to
Chang-an. Before he left, Dong Zhuo
razed the city. Sun Jian pressed for-
ward and entered Luo- yang. There, he
repaired imperial burial mounds and
properly buried those graves Dong
Zhuo had robbed. Then, he returned to
Luo-yang with his army to await for
further instruction.
Death of Sun Jian
On the Third Year of Early Peace
during Han Emperor Xian's reign (192
AD), Yuan Shu ordered Sun Jian to
invade Jing Province, which was un-
der protection of Liu Biao, the Provin-
cial Shepherd. Liu Biao sent
subordinate general, Huang Zhu, to
stop Sun Jian.
They met and fought at area
around Fan City and Deng Prefecture.
Sun Jian broke through Huang Zhu
and gave chased after routed army.
Huang Zhu retreated across Han River
and into Xiang-yang [City]. Still, Sun
Jian was able to force Huang Zhu to
abandon that city. However, while
pursued after fleeing army, Sun Jian
moved into the ambush set by Huang
Zhu rear guards. He was killed in hail
of quarrels.
Sun Bi, son of Sun Jian's elder
brother, brought the remaining troops
back to Yuan Shu. Yuan Shu recom-
mended Sun Bi to be the Inspector of
Yu Province.
Sun Jian has four sons: Sun Ce,
Sun Quan, Sun Yi and Sun Kuang.
When Sun Quan became emperor, he
elevated Sun Jian to be Virtuous Mar-
tial Emperor of Wu.
Commentary
Chen Shou (the author of San-gu-
zhi) critiqued of Sun Jian as follow:
Hua Xiong
Contrary to the novel,
Sun Jian slew Hua
Xiong as instead of
Guan Yu.
Dragon Dynasty CCG
There was no mention
of Sun Jian found the
Imperail Seal in offi-
cial record.
Dragon Dynasty CCG

Quarterly Theme Deck - Yellow Turban (Cheese)
This is the first of series of article
to focus on Dragon Dynasty Collect-
ible Card Game. For many, there are
numerous cards that seem to be broken
or oozed with cheese. But if there are
sufficient broken cards, then overall
the card game itself is not broken, is it
not so? Therefore, the purpose of this
series is to introduce a specific theme
deck in two flavors: tournament
deadly and simulated story.
Tournament Deadly
Subjugating the enemy’s army
without fighting is the true
pinnacle of excellence.
Sun-tzu Art of War Chapter 3
This is the design philosophy be-
hind Dragon Dynasty for tournament.
Face it, in tournament where prize and
prestige are at stake, people will play
hardball. Accordingly,
Subjugating the opponent’s
deck on the first draw is the
true pinnacle of excellence.
Dragon Dynasty Art of Tournament
Nothing is more satisfying than on
your first draw, your opponent’s fate
had been sealed. You are in control of
time element. Of course, it is fool-
hardy to depend your entire deck strat-
egy on the First Draw Victory. The
deck has to be able to have a secondary
way (Attack the Army) and a tertiary
way (Siege the Deck) of winning. At-
tack the Army is the most common
route for players to win in tournament.
Both players will be on race to bring
out necessary components to systemat-
ically destroy the opponent’s cards.
This secondary way includes the base
condition of achieving ten victory
points. Therefore, a player has to pre-
pare at least 3 ways of winning for the
Attack the Army stratagem. Time may
or may not work against you. Siege the
Deck occurs when player lost all pos-
sible win from his deck or initiative; he
can only hope to outlast his opponent
and achieve the dubious win. Deck
size helps in this stratagem but it is at
the expanses of other two.
Tournament Deck - Yellow
Turban (Cheese)
On the chart below is the composi-
tion of the Tournament Deck - Yellow
Turbans. The total VP value is 12
which is quite low compared to other
honor or positive vp theme decks. And
its maximum VP is 25. Again, not very
high when compare to other decks.
The offset for this seemly low VP
value is its ability to win through neg-
ative victory points.
First Draw Victory
1. Yellow Scarf Bandit,
Zhang Bao, Burning of
Lou Yang
2. Yellow Scarf Bandit,
Zhang Liang
Attack the Army
1. combo: Old Sage from
the South, Jade Seal,
Zhang Jiao, Female As-
sassin
2. combo: Zhang Liang,
Female Assassin
3. combo: 10 vp win
This is an easy deck to make.
There are two possible First Draw Vic-
Tournament Deck’s Yellow
Turban (Cheese)
• 2 Foot Archer (#001C)
• 2 Horse Archer (#002C)
• 1 Zhang Bao (#008U)
• 1 Zhang Liang (#009U)
• 4 Yellow Scarf Bandit (#013C)
• 2 Female Assassins (#044U)
• 2 Old Sage from the Splendid South (#058U)
• 1 Zhang Jio (#X-RAYS)
• 2 Que Hua Gong (#078C)
• 1 Nine Section Iron Whip (#078C)
• 2 Poor Land (#080C)
• 2 Arrow of Cold (#081C)
• 2 Men of Paper / Horse Grass (#083U)
• 1 Jade Seal (#088R)
• 1 Burning of Lou Yang (113R)
• 4 Small Town (118C)
Staple Defensive Cards
• 2 Spy (#017C)
• 2 Burn Supply (#019C)
• 2 Setup (#094C)
• 2 Lost (#095C)
• 2 Bags of Trick (#097C)
Overall VP: 12
Maximum VP: 25
First Draw Victory
Dragon Dynasty CCG

Revisit the Three Kingdoms 02

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