I

  Guan Hai was bound hand and foot, tossed onto the open ground in the middle of the stockade.

  Torchlight illuminated his dark face, now etched with terror and unwillingness. The surrounding villagers crowded around—some cursing, some weeping, some picking up stones to hurl at him.

  Taishi Ci stood before the crowd, raising a hand to quell the commotion.

  "Fellow villagers," he announced in a clear voice, "Guan Hai has committed countless evil deeds and deserves death. But how he dies should be decided by public consensus."

  An old man tottered forward, tears streaming down his weathered face. "He stole my daughter-in-law. When she refused him, he beat her to death... My son went to demand her back—they cut him down too... Righteous Man Taishi, I beg you to seek justice for me!"

  A woman clutching a child wailed, "He took the last sack of grain from my home. My mother-in-law starved to death... I beg you, righteous man, kill him!"

  Accusations rose one after another.

  Li Yan stood to one side, listening silently. Each cry of anguish cut like a knife into the heart.

  In chaotic times, evil men ruled, and the people were but weeds.

  Taishi Ci looked at Guan Hai. "Do you have anything to say?"

  Guan Hai struggled to lift his head, his fleshy face twitching. "The victor is king, the loser a bandit. If you're going to kill me, do it! In eighteen years, I'll be a hero again!"

  "A hero?" Taishi Ci sneered. "Plundering villagers, oppressing women and children—you call yourself a hero?"

  He turned to Li Yan. "Brother Li, what do you say should be done?"

  Li Yan was silent for a moment, then spoke slowly: "By law, he should be executed. But before execution, he should understand his crimes."

  He walked over to Guan Hai and crouched down.

  "Guan Hai, you call yourself a Yellow Turban. Do you know why the Yellow Turbans first rose?"

  Guan Hai glared at him, silent.

  "The Yellow Turbans rose because the people could no longer live." Li Yan said. "The court was corrupt, officials were tyrannical and greedy, natural disasters came year after year—the people had no means to survive. The Zhang brothers gathered followers under the banner of the 'Way of Great Peace,' seeking only to live. But later? Wherever the Yellow Turbans passed, they burned, killed, and looted—how were they different from the government?"

  "You were once a commoner yourself. You've also suffered. But once you gained power, you turned your blade on those even more suffering than yourself. You stole their grain, leaving them to starve; you killed their loved ones, leaving their families destroyed. Today, when you've fallen, they hate you to the bone—do you understand why?"

  Guan Hai's lips moved, but no words came.

  "Because you forgot where you came from." Li Yan stood up. "In chaotic times, everyone struggles to survive. But some struggle without harming others; others must trample on bones to survive. You are the latter."

  He looked at Taishi Ci. "Brother Taishi, let the people decide."

  Taishi Ci nodded and waved his hand.

  Several young men stepped forward and dragged Guan Hai to the center of the open ground. The villagers surrounded him—stones, clubs, spittle rained down like a storm.

  At first, Guan Hai remained defiant. Then came screams of agony. Finally, silence.

  Li Yan turned away, unable to watch.

  He had killed men before, but never tortured them. Today, he could not stop this—it was the people's fury, pent-up resentment finally released.

  Chaotic times were a crucible, refining the darkest aspects of human nature.

  After Guan Hai's execution, Taishi Ci turned to dealing with the captives.

  Over two hundred of Guan Hai's men had surrendered, now kneeling on the ground, trembling.

  Taishi Ci looked at them, pondering. "Most of these were coerced into following him. It would be a pity to kill them, but releasing them might let them become bandits again. Perhaps we should incorporate them into the local militia and let them atone for their crimes through service."

  Li Yan frowned. "Brother Taishi, these men are accustomed to plunder. They'll be difficult to control."

  "I can train them." Taishi Ci said. "In chaotic times, we need men. Having them is better than not."

  As they spoke, one of the surrendered minor leaders suddenly kowtowed. "Righteous Man Taishi! Righteous Man Li! This humble one wishes to surrender! I'm willing to serve you!"

  Taishi Ci looked at him. "What's your name?"

  "This humble one is Wang Er, formerly a hunter. Guan Hai captured me; if I didn't obey, he threatened to kill my whole family..." Wang Er wept. "I was forced! I never killed any villagers—I only cooked, fed the horses..."

  Li Yan stared at him for a long moment, then suddenly asked, "Where were you three days ago?"

  Wang Er was startled. "At... at the stockade."

  "Did you go out to plunder grain?"

  "No... no..."

  "You're lying." Li Yan's voice was cold. "Three days ago, you followed the one-eyed man in attacking the refugee camp outside Linzi. You wounded an old man and stole three sacks of grain. That old man was named Chen Bo. He has an old injury on his left leg and walks with a limp. Do you remember?"

  Wang Er's face changed drastically. "I... I..."

  "When you struck him, he said, 'Take the grain, but don't hurt my grandson.' You took the grain and kicked him as well." Li Yan pressed relentlessly. "Did that happen or not?"

  Wang Er collapsed to the ground, kowtowing repeatedly. "Righteous man, spare me! I was wrong! I won't dare do it again!"

  Taishi Ci looked at Li Yan, his expression complex. "Brother Li, how do you know this?"

  "Master Chen told me." Li Yan said. "That old man is still in the refugee camp, his leg wound not yet healed."

  He walked over to Wang Er and drew his short knife.

  "You say you never killed any villagers, but wounding and stealing grain—how is that different from killing?" Li Yan pressed the knife tip against his throat. "That sack of grain was three days' food for Chen Bo and his grandchildren. You stole it; they nearly starved."

  Wang Er's face was ashen.

  Taishi Ci sighed and waved his hand. "Take him away. Punish him according to his crimes."

  By the time they finished dealing with the captives, it was late at night.

  The stockade grew quiet, broken only by the sound of巡逻 footsteps and distant insect chirping.

  Li Yan and Taishi Ci sat on the stockade wall, gazing at the scattered lights below—the direction of the refugee camp.

  "Brother Li," Taishi Ci suddenly said, "do you think I should have incorporated those men?"

  Li Yan was silent for a moment, then said, "Brother Taishi, do you want the truth or a comforting lie?"

  "The truth."

  "The truth is: no." Li Yan said. "These men followed Guan Hai in his evil deeds. Though coerced, their hands are stained with blood. If you incorporate them, what will the people think? They'll say, 'Taishi Ci is no different from the bandits.' You have the people's support because you protect them. If you protect bandits, that support will dissipate."

  Taishi Ci frowned. "But in chaotic times, when we need men..."

  "When you use men, you must use their hearts, not just their strength." Li Yan interrupted him. "These men surrender to you today because you are strong. If someone stronger comes along tomorrow, they'll surrender to him. Better to have no such wolves than to raise them, only to have them turn on you."

  "Then how should they be dealt with?"

  "Execute the chief culprits, spare the coerced, but do not employ them." Li Yan said. "Let them return home to farm, or surrender to the authorities and let the law decide. Since you wish to protect the region and comfort the people, you must abide by principles. Without principles, nothing can be achieved."

  Taishi Ci pondered for a long time, then slowly nodded. "Brother Li is right. I was misguided."

  Li Yan smiled. "Brother Taishi's benevolence is a good thing. But benevolence must have an edge; otherwise, it's weakness."

  "I am instructed." Taishi Ci clasped his hands.

  They talked a while longer. Taishi Ci said he wanted to remain in Qing Province, organize local volunteers, and protect the people. Li Yan said he needed to continue south to Xu Province.

  "Brother Li," Taishi Ci unbuckled the sword at his waist and handed it to him, "this sword has accompanied me for many years. Though not a famous blade, it is sharp and reliable. I give it to you as a memento."

  Li Yan accepted it. The scabbard was plain, but when he drew the blade, its cold gleam was fierce—truly a fine sword.

  "Thank you, Brother Taishi." He, in turn, took something from his robe—the seal of the County Commandant of Anxi that Liu Bei had given him. "This seal is no longer useful, but it can serve as a token of identity. If you ever need help, Brother Taishi, present this seal to any member of the imperial clan, and you may gain an audience."

  Taishi Ci accepted it and tucked it away carefully.

  They smiled at each other.

  Who knew when they would meet again?

  II

  Early the next morning, Li Yan took his leave.

  Taishi Ci saw him to the stockade gate. Over a hundred local volunteers lined up to see him off. The villagers also came, carrying eggs and dry rations, pressing them on Li Yan.

  "Righteous man, take these for the road!"

  "Benefactor, take care!"

  Li Yan thanked each one, then mounted his horse.

  "Brother Taishi," he clasped his hands, "until we meet again."

  "Until we meet again." Taishi Ci returned the salute. "If you ever pass through Qing Province, you must come find me for a drink."

  "Certainly."

  Li Yan turned his horse's head and rode south.

  After he had gone a considerable distance, he looked back. Taishi Ci still stood at the stockade gate, his figure silhouetted against the morning light.

  Li Yan smiled and continued on his way.

  His old horse seemed to know they were leaving and moved especially briskly. Li Yan hummed a tune, in good spirits.

  This trip to Qing Province, though dangerous, had been worthwhile. He had met a true hero like Taishi Ci, helped the people, and gained a fine sword.

  His only regret was not being able to stay a few more days to see the mountains and waters of Qing Province.

  As he rode, a merchant caravan appeared on the official road ahead.

  The caravan had over a dozen carts, escorted by more than thirty guards, all armed—clearly a long-distance operation.

  Li Yan moved to the roadside to let them pass.

  The caravan leader was a middle-aged merchant, plump and smiling. Seeing Li Yan alone, he took the initiative to greet him. "Brother, where are you headed?"

  "To Xu Province." Li Yan said.

  "What a coincidence—we're also going to Xu Province." The merchant said. "Traveling alone, brother? The road isn't safe. Why not travel together?"

  Li Yan thought for a moment, then nodded. "Then I'll impose on your company."

  He joined the caravan and rode alongside the merchant.

  The merchant's surname was Qian, given name Duoduo—a very straightforward name. He was a merchant from Ji Province, dealing in cloth. This time, he was transporting a batch of Ji Province brocade to sell in Xu Province.

  "Business is good, Boss Qian?" Li Yan asked.

  "Just scraping by." Qian Duoduo chuckled. "In chaotic times, business is hard. Lots of bandits, lots of checkpoints, lots of taxes. But it's alright—I've traveled this route for years. I know it well."

  They chatted as they rode.

  Qian Duoduo was a talker, ranging from heaven to earth, from business to current affairs.

  "Heard the news? Ji Province is about to change hands." He said mysteriously.

  "Change how?"

  "Yuan Shao is going to take Ji Province." Qian Duoduo lowered his voice. "I have a relative serving under Han Fu. He says Han Fu has been unable to eat or sleep lately, constantly muttering 'Gongsun Zan is coming,' 'Yuan Shao is going to rebel.' His subordinates urged him to prepare the army, but instead he cut military spending, saying he would 'win people with virtue'—can you believe it?"

  Li Yan's heart stirred. "Any movement from Yuan Shao's side?"

  "Plenty." Qian Duoduo said. "I hear Yuan Shao has a female strategist, surname Cui, very formidable. First, she won over the local scholar-official clans of Ji Province, then she sent people to spread rumors, scaring Han Fu half to death. Now all of Ji Province is in turmoil, everyone waiting for a new master."

  Cui?

  Cui Yan?

  Li Yan's hand tightened on the reins.

  "This female strategist... what's her background?" he asked casually.

  "Legitimate daughter of the Qinghe Cui clan, name of Cui Yan." Qian Duoduo said. "They say she's as beautiful as a celestial maiden, but her methods are thunderous—they call her 'Cui the Thunderbolt.' Yuan Shao has been able to gain a foothold so quickly thanks to her."

  Cui the Thunderbolt?

  The corner of Li Yan's mouth twitched—the nickname was rather apt.

  "Where is she now?" he asked.

  "Should be in Ye City." Qian Duoduo said. "But I heard she recently went to Xindu to personally persuade Han Fu to surrender. A woman, daring to enter the tiger's den—remarkable."

  Li Yan fell silent.

  Cui Yan had gone to Xindu? That was Han Fu's territory. If Han Fu turned hostile, wouldn't she be in danger?

  "Boss Qian," he suddenly said, "how fast does your caravan travel?"

  "Decent speed—sixty li a day."

  "Can you go any faster?"

  Qian Duoduo looked at him strangely. "Brother in a hurry?"

  "Yes," Li Yan nodded, "want to get to Xu Province sooner."

  Truth be told, he didn't know why he was in a hurry. Where Cui Yan was, what she did—what business was it of his?

  But he couldn't shake the feeling.

  That woman who had negotiated so calmly at the Ghost Market in Luoyang, who had bandaged his wound in Cao's camp, who had said at the pavilion, "The tea is kept warm"...

  She shouldn't be involved in such dangerous games.

  "Alright, I'll have the caravan speed up." Qian Duoduo agreed readily. "But brother, when we reach Xu Province, you'll have to treat me to a drink."

  "Certainly."

  The caravan picked up speed.

  Li Yan rode on, gazing southward, his thoughts in turmoil.

  Cui Yan, oh Cui Yan, what kind of world are you trying to carve out with your thunderous methods?

  III

  At the same time, in Xindu, at the Governor's residence.

  Han Fu sat in his study, his face ashen.

  In his hand, he held an urgent report—a "request to borrow grain" sent by Gongsun Zan, arrogant in tone, demanding one hundred thousand shi of grain and five thousand war horses. If not complied with, he would "personally come to collect."

  "Borrow grain? More like robbery!" Han Fu threw the report to the ground. "Gongsun Zan goes too far!"

  His strategist Ju Shou stood to one side, head bowed, silent.

  "Gongyu," Han Fu looked at him, "tell me, what should be done?"

  Ju Shou was silent for a moment, then spoke slowly: "My lord, Gongsun Zan is fierce in battle, and his White Horse Volunteers are renowned throughout the realm. To resist him directly would be difficult to achieve victory."

  "Then what? Give it to him?"

  "Giving would be raising a tiger to bring disaster." Ju Shou said. "Today he demands grain, tomorrow he'll demand land, the day after he'll demand Ji Province itself."

  Han Fu paced anxiously. "This won't do, that won't do—are we to just wait for death?"

  Just then, a guard announced from outside: "My lord, an envoy from Yuan Shao requests an audience."

  "Yuan Shao?" Han Fu was taken aback. "What does he want?"

  "He says... he brings gifts."

  "Let him in."

  A moment later, Cui Yan entered.

  She was formally dressed today: a deep blue quju robe, a moon-white silk drape over her shoulders, her hair coiled in a high bun and adorned with a jade hairpin. Though her face bore no makeup, her bearing was composed and dignified, impossible to underestimate.

  "Cui Yan of Qinghe pays respects to Governor Han." She bowed.

  Han Fu looked her over. "You are Yuan Shao's envoy?"

  "Yes." Cui Yan raised her head. "Lord Yuan, knowing of your recent troubles, my lord, has sent me with three gifts to relieve your worries."

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  "What gifts?"

  Cui Yan clapped her hands.

  Two guards carried in a chest and opened it.

  The first: a fine sword.

  "This sword is named 'Green Rainbow.' It can cut through iron as if through mud." Cui Yan said. "Lord Yuan says: if you need to defend against enemies, my lord, this sword may assist you."

  Han Fu glanced at it, noncommittal.

  The second: a brocade robe.

  "This robe is made of Shu brocade, warm in winter and cool in summer." Cui Yan said. "Lord Yuan says: you labor day and night, my lord; you must take care of your health."

  Han Fu's expression softened slightly.

  The third: a brocade box.

  Cui Yan opened the box. Inside lay a silk scroll.

  "This is a personal letter from Lord Yuan." She presented it with both hands. "I beg you, my lord, to examine it."

  Han Fu took it and unrolled it.

  The letter was very polite. It began with greetings, then said, "I have heard that Gongsun Zan is troubling you, my lord. Shao is willing to send troops to assist." The final sentence was the key:

  "If you are willing, my lord, Shao would like to govern Ji Province jointly with you. You would remain in Xindu, my lord, and Shao would reside in Ye City, supporting each other like the two horns of an animal, jointly defending against external enemies. If the realm undergoes changes in the future, we would honor you as盟主 and jointly attack the traitors."

  The words sounded pleasant, but the meaning was clear: Ji Province—let's split it fifty-fifty.

  After reading it, Han Fu was silent for a long time.

  "Lady Cui," he said slowly, "Yuan Shao's good intentions, I appreciate. But Ji Province was bestowed by the court. How can it be privately transferred?"

  Cui Yan smiled. "My lord, now Dong Zhuo holds the Son of Heaven hostage and commands the regional lords. Where is the court? What the court bestowed is merely a false edict from Dong Zhuo. Do you truly intend to obey Dong Zhuo's commands, my lord?"

  Han Fu was speechless.

  "Moreover," Cui Yan continued, "do you believe, my lord, that with your own strength alone, you can defend Ji Province? To the north, Gongsun Zan watches like a tiger; to the west, the Black Mountain bandits run rampant; to the south, Cao Cao recruits troops; to the east, Yellow Turban remnants cause chaos. Beneath your command, my lord, you have only a few tens of thousands of troops capable of fighting. Can you withstand so many fronts?"

  With each sentence she spoke, Han Fu's face paled further.

  "Lord Yuan's family has held high office for four generations; his name is renowned throughout the realm. Beneath him are strategists like clouds and generals like rain." Cui Yan continued. "If you ally with Lord Yuan, my lord, Ji Province can be preserved, your family can be safe. If you insist on defending it alone... I fear disaster is not far off."

  The words were blunt, almost an open declaration that he was incapable.

  Han Fu's face turned ashen, but he had no strength to refute her.

  Because he knew—Cui Yan was speaking the truth.

  "You... withdraw for now." He waved a hand. "Let me think."

  Cui Yan bowed. "I await your reply at the courier station, my lord. But you should know, my lord—Gongsun Zan's troops can reach the outskirts of Xindu within three days."

  With that, she turned and left.

  Han Fu collapsed into his chair, drenched in sweat.

  Ju Shou stepped forward and said in a low voice, "My lord, though Cui Yan's words were harsh, they reflect the true situation. Now Ji Province faces internal and external troubles; it cannot be defended by one man alone. Yuan Shao may be ambitious, but at least he follows rules. If Gongsun Zan were to take Ji Province..."

  He didn't finish, but the meaning was clear.

  Han Fu sighed deeply. "Must I really yield Ji Province?"

  "Not yield—govern jointly." Ju Shou said. "Yuan Shao's letter makes it very clear: you would remain in Xindu, my lord, and remain Governor. Only... military and political matters would need to be discussed with Lord Yuan."

  In essence, he would become a puppet.

  Han Fu smiled bitterly.

  He had lived over fifty years, studied the classics his whole life, and believed in "loyalty to the sovereign, love for the country," "responsibility for one's territory." But now, his sovereign was in Dong Zhuo's hands, the country was disintegrating, and his territory... he could no longer hold it.

  "Let me think." He waved a hand. "Withdraw for now."

  Ju Shou withdrew.

  Only Han Fu remained in the study.

  He looked at the four-character plaque hanging on the wall: "Loyalty, Filial Piety, Integrity, Righteousness." Suddenly, he found it ironic.

  Loyalty? Loyal to whom?

  Filial piety? His parents had long since passed.

  Integrity? His great integrity was already lost.

  Righteousness? In chaotic times, there was no righteousness.

  He took down the plaque and dashed it to the floor.

  Crash!

  The plaque split in two.

  IV

  Cui Yan returned to the courier station. Qingwu greeted her.

  "Young Mistress, how did it go?"

  "Han Fu is wavering." Cui Yan sat down and drank some water. "But it's not enough. We need to push him further."

  "How?"

  Cui Yan thought for a moment. "Han Fu's wife, Lady Liu, is the key."

  Lady Liu was a daughter of the imperial clan, Han Fu's second wife, twenty years younger than him, and much beloved. She was gentle-natured but timid, valuing above all the safety of her family.

  "Prepare a gift," Cui Yan said. "I'm going to visit Lady Liu."

  The gift was carefully selected: a pair of South Sea pearls, a string of Western Region amber beads, and several bolts of Jiangnan soft silk gauze. All things women would appreciate.

  At dusk, Cui Yan arrived at the rear quarters of the Governor's residence.

  Lady Liu was embroidering. When she heard that Cui Yan had come to call, she was somewhat surprised but received her nonetheless.

  They met in the flower hall.

  Lady Liu was in her thirties, with delicate features, but worry was etched between her brows. She looked at the gifts Cui Yan had brought and seemed uneasy. "Lady Cui is too kind. These gifts are too valuable..."

  "As long as you like them, my lady." Cui Yan smiled. "I have not come today on official business, but merely to chat with you. We are both women; in chaotic times, we should look out for one another."

  These words bridged the distance.

  Lady Liu invited Cui Yan to sit and ordered tea.

  They chatted about domestic matters. Cui Yan spoke of the scenery in her old home in Qinghe, of the bustling prosperity of Luoyang, of the difficulties faced by women in chaotic times. Lady Liu listened and gradually relaxed.

  "Lady Cui," she suddenly asked, "when do you think this chaos will end?"

  "I don't know." Cui Yan shook her head. "But I do know one thing: in chaotic times, what women seek is nothing more than the safety of their families and the well-being of their loved ones. Matters of state, of fame and fortune—those are men's concerns. For us women, if we can protect our households, that is a great achievement."

  These words struck deep in Lady Liu's heart.

  Her eyes reddened. "Isn't that the truth? My husband worries day and night, and I worry along with him. I heard Gongsun Zan is about to attack—I haven't slept well for several nights."

  "Rest assured, my lady." Cui Yan took her hand. "Lord Yuan has promised that if Governor Han is willing to govern Ji Province jointly with him, Lord Yuan will guarantee the safety of the entire Han family. The Governor will remain Governor, and you will remain the Governor's lady—everything will be as before."

  "Really?" Lady Liu's eyes lit up.

  "Absolutely true." Cui Yan said. "Lord Yuan has also promised to recommend your eldest son for an official position at court—though the court is now in Dong Zhuo's hands, it's still a future prospect. When the realm is pacified, the Han family will still be a renowned clan."

  Lady Liu was swayed.

  Her greatest worry was her son's future. Han Fu was old; he might pass away at any time. If her son had no support, what would become of him?

  "But... my husband is stubborn," she hesitated. "He probably won't agree."

  "Then you must advise him, my lady." Cui Yan said. "You should know, my lady, that Ji Province is now as precarious as a pile of eggs. To hold out stubbornly is the path to death; to yield a step is the path to life. The Han family's century-old foundation cannot be destroyed by a single misguided decision."

  Lady Liu was silent for a long moment. Then she slowly nodded. "I'll try."

  Cui Yan knew she had succeeded.

  As she left the Governor's residence, night had fallen.

  Qingwu carried a lantern and whispered, "Young Mistress, will Lady Liu persuade him?"

  "She will." Cui Yan said. "She's a sensible woman. She knows how to choose."

  "What do we do now?"

  "Wait." Cui Yan gazed at the night sky. "Wait for Han Fu to come to his senses on his own."

  The night sky was brilliant with stars. Tomorrow should be a clear day.

  V

  The next day, news arrived.

  Gongsun Zan's "vanguard" had reached a point thirty li from Xindu—in reality, only about a hundred men, but they flew Gongsun Zan's banner and bluffed to magnify their presence.

  Han Fu panicked completely.

  He summoned his officials to discuss the matter, but few came—Shen Pei pleaded illness, Ju Shou said his "old ailment had recurred," Tian Feng had simply returned to his hometown.

  Those who remained were sycophants who could offer no substantive advice.

  Han Fu's heart sank.

  He knew he had been abandoned.

  Just then, Lady Liu arrived.

  "My lord," she said, tears glistening in her eyes, "last night I dreamed of your father. He said the Han family's foundation must not be destroyed by your hand. When you should yield, yield; when you should retreat, retreat. As long as the green hills remain, one need not worry for firewood."

  Han Fu looked at her. "Even you advise me to yield?"

  "I don't understand great affairs," Lady Liu knelt, "I only know that if you are safe, my lord, if our son is safe, if the Han family is safe—that is blessing enough. My lord, we cannot contend with them... Better to preserve the family than to smash jade and stone together."

  Han Fu helped her up and sighed deeply.

  He knew she was right.

  But to yield Ji Province like this—it was galling!

  As he hesitated, a guard announced: "My lord, Attendant Official Ju, Administrator Shen, and Recorder Tian have submitted a joint memorial."

  Han Fu took it and unrolled it.

  It was a memorial urging him to "yield to the worthy Lord Yuan."

  The wording was polite, but the meaning was clear: you are incompetent; step aside.

  Han Fu's hand trembled. The letter drifted to the floor.

  He knew the game was up.

  "Summon Cui Yan." He said, defeated.

  Cui Yan arrived promptly.

  "Have you reached a decision, my lord?" she asked.

  Han Fu looked at her and smiled bitterly. "Lady Cui's methods are formidable. Attacked from within and without, abandoned by superiors and subordinates alike—I, Han Fu, have no choice but to submit."

  "You exaggerate, my lord." Cui Yan bowed. "All that I have done is for you, my lord, and for the people of Ji Province. In chaotic times, the capable should govern—it is not a matter of personal enmity."

  "Well said—'the capable should govern.'" Han Fu rose, walked to his desk, and picked up the gubernatorial seal and ribbon.

  He stroked the patterns engraved on the seal, his eyes moist.

  He had held this seal for three years. Three years of treading on eggshells, of constant anxiety. And still, he could not hold it.

  "Take it." He handed the seal and ribbon to Cui Yan. "Tell Yuan Shao that I... yield Ji Province. But ask him to keep his promise and protect the safety of my Han family."

  Cui Yan accepted the seal and ribbon with both hands, her expression solemn. "Rest assured, my lord. Lord Yuan's word is his bond. He will not fail you."

  In the fourth month of the year 185 AD, Han Fu yielded the governorship of Ji Province to Yuan Shao.

  When the news spread, the realm was shaken.

  VI

  In early fifth month, Yuan Shao entered Xindu in triumph.

  A grand entry ceremony was held, with the entire city's populace watching. Yuan Shao rode at the forefront on horseback, followed by his civil and military officials. Cui Yan sat in a carriage, gazing through the curtain at the cheering crowds outside. Her face revealed nothing.

  Qingwu whispered, "Young Mistress, we've succeeded."

  "Yes." Cui Yan responded softly.

  Had they succeeded? Perhaps. Ji Province was in hand, Yuan Shao's power had greatly increased, and the Cui clan had gained a foothold.

  But her heart felt empty.

  Chaotic times were like a chessboard; she was but a chess piece—though now a more important one, still a piece.

  The celebratory banquet was held at the Governor's residence.

  Yuan Shao feasted his officials and rewarded those who had rendered meritorious service.

  Feng Ji was appointed Attendant Official.

  Ju Shou was appointed General Who Exerts Force.

  Shen Pei was appointed Attendant Aide.

  Tian Feng was appointed Recorder of Ji Province.

  When it came to Cui Yan's turn, Yuan Shao looked at her and smiled. "Lady Cui's contribution is greatest; she should have the highest merit. I appoint you as Chief Commandant of Agriculture, in charge of farming, sericulture, and grain allocation in Ji Province. How does that sound?"

  Chief Commandant of Agriculture—a rank comparable to two thousand shi, with considerable real power.

  Everyone was astonished.

  Guo Tu's expression was especially sour—he had failed in his persuasion mission and achieved nothing, while Cui Yan now held high office. How could he not be envious?

  Cui Yan rose and bowed. "Thank you, my lord. But I have a request."

  "Speak."

  "I may temporarily hold the position of Chief Commandant of Agriculture. Once agricultural affairs in Ji Province are on track, I wish to retreat behind the scenes and focus solely on the Cui clan's commercial matters." Cui Yan said. "I am a woman; it is inappropriate to hold high office for long, lest it invite criticism."

  The words were skillfully phrased. She accepted the position while making clear she did not covet power, and also gave Yuan Shao an out—see, it's not that I'm unwilling to give you high office; it's that she herself doesn't want it.

  Yuan Shao nodded with satisfaction. "Lady Cui understands the greater good. Granted."

  The banquet continued.

  Guo Tu drank a few cups of sulky wine, growing more agitated. He sidled up to Chunyu Qiong and whispered, "General Chunyu, look at that Cui Yan—a mere woman, occupying such a high position. If this continues, will there be any place left for us?"

  Chunyu Qiong was an old subordinate of Yuan Shao, brave but rash. At these words, he snorted, "Our lord rewards and punishes according to merit. We simply obey orders."

  "That may be so," Guo Tu fanned the flames, "but doesn't it seem to you, General, that our lord relies too heavily on the Cui clan? What if someday Cui Yan harbors treacherous intentions..."

  Chunyu Qiong frowned. "Surely not?"

  "One cannot be too careful." Guo Tu said. "I have a plan to test her loyalty."

  "What plan?"

  Guo Tu whispered a few sentences.

  Chunyu Qiong's expression shifted. He hesitated. "This... if our lord finds out..."

  "Heaven knows, earth knows, you know, I know." Guo Tu smiled. "If it succeeds, we eliminate a隐患. If it fails, it has nothing to do with us."

  Chunyu Qiong thought for a moment, then nodded. "Alright, I'll do as you say."

  As the two conspired, Cui Yan was speaking with Ju Shou.

  "Lady Cui's move today was wise." Ju Shou raised his cup. "High position is desirable, but it easily attracts envy. Knowing when to retreat is the path to longevity."

  "Thank you for your guidance." Cui Yan took a sip of wine. "However... I observe Guo Tu's expression. I fear he will not let the matter rest."

  "Guo Gongze is narrow-minded. You must be careful, my lady." Ju Shou said. "If you encounter difficulties, you may seek me out."

  "Thank you."

  The banquet did not end until late at night.

  Cui Yan returned to the courier station, exhausted.

  Qingwu helped her wash and could not help asking, "Young Mistress, when will we return to Ye City?"

  "In a few days." Cui Yan said. "After the交接 is complete."

  "And after that? Will you really manage agriculture and sericulture?"

  "Yes." Cui Yan nodded. "Agriculture and sericulture are the foundation. Mastering them means mastering the lifeblood of Ji Province. That's more important than empty titles."

  Qingwu seemed to understand but not fully.

  Cui Yan did not explain further. She walked to the window and pushed it open.

  The night wind was cool, carrying the breath of early summer.

  She gazed at the starry sky and suddenly thought of Li Yan.

  Where was that fellow now? She'd heard he had helped Taishi Ci defeat Guan Hai in Qing Province—well done.

  She wondered if he had heard about the events in Ji Province.

  If he had, what would he think?

  Would he laugh at her being called "Cui the Thunderbolt"?

  The corner of Cui Yan's mouth lifted slightly. She smiled.

  Then, as she smiled, she sighed.

  In the turbulent currents of chaos, one's fate was not one's own.

  To be alive, to be able to do things—that was already great fortune.

  What more could she ask for?

  She closed the window and prepared for sleep.

  Tomorrow, there would be a mountain of affairs to handle.

  VII

  A few days later, Cui Yan began to take charge of agricultural and sericultural affairs in Ji Province.

  The first thing she did was audit the accounts.

  The grain taxes, inventories, land acreage, and population figures of Ji Province over the years all had to be clarified. It was a massive undertaking, but she proceeded methodically.

  Ju Shou had assigned her several assistants—all young, capable clerks.

  "Lady Cui," a clerk named Zhao Cheng said, "these are the grain tax ledgers for each commandery of Ji Province from the previous year. Please examine them."

  Cui Yan took them and flipped through quickly.

  As she read, her brow furrowed.

  "This isn't right," she said. "Changshan Commandery reported three hundred thousand mu of cultivated land last year, with actual grain tax revenue of one hundred fifty thousand shi. But according to Changshan Commandery's soil and climate, the yield per mu should be at least one shi. Three hundred thousand mu should yield three hundred thousand shi. Half is missing. Where did it go?"

  Zhao Cheng broke out in a cold sweat. "This... this subordinate does not know."

  "Investigate." Cui Yan's tone was calm. "From the commandery governor down to the county clerks—investigate layer by layer. However much was embezzled, recover it. If it cannot be recovered, use their family assets to compensate."

  "Yes..."

  "Also," Cui Yan flipped to another page, "Zhongshan Commandery reported a 'flood disaster with tax reduction' last year. But to my knowledge, there was no major flood in Zhongshan Commandery last year. Who reported the disaster? Who approved the reduction? Investigate that as well."

  Zhao Cheng's legs turned to jelly.

  This Lady Cui—demure in appearance, but ruthless in action.

  Within a few days, the officialdom of Ji Province was shaken. Over a dozen commandery clerks were investigated, and three commandery governors were dismissed. The recovered grain taxes filled the warehouses.

  The people clapped their hands in praise; officials trembled in fear.

  Guo Tu could no longer sit still.

  He had hoped to wait for Cui Yan to make a mistake, so he could seize upon it. But not only had Cui Yan made no mistakes, she was thriving and gaining prestige by the day.

  He could wait no longer.

  He found Chunyu Qiong. "General, it's time to act."

  Chunyu Qiong hesitated. "Cui Yan is enjoying our lord's trust right now. Moving against her is too risky."

  "If we don't act now, she'll be entrenched." Guo Tu said. "I've received word that she's auditing the military equipment accounts. If she investigates us..."

  Chunyu Qiong's expression changed.

  He had indeed sold a batch of military equipment—to the Black Mountain bandits—to make some extra cash. If that came to light, Yuan Shao would have his head.

  "How do we act?" he asked through gritted teeth.

  Guo Tu smiled slyly. "I have a batch of moldy grain. We'll mix it into the military provisions. When she allocates it, expose her publicly, saying she substituted inferior goods and embezzled soldiers' pay. Our lord hates corruption most of all; he'll punish her severely."

  "But... what if she discovers it beforehand?"

  "She won't." Guo Tu said confidently. "I've bribed one of her warehouse clerks. We'll act tonight."

  Chunyu Qiong thought for a moment, then nodded. "Alright. I'll do as you say."

  As the two conspired, Cui Yan was auditing the accounts at the military equipment depot.

  She had indeed discovered a problem: three months prior, a batch of high-quality weapons had "vanished without trace." The ledger recorded them as "losses." But losses were never so neat: a hundred ring-pommel swords, fifty strong crossbows, thirty suits of iron armor, all "lost" at the same time?

  A likely story.

  She ordered the records of receipts and issues brought and began matching them one by one.

  As she worked, Qingwu hurried in. "Young Mistress, something's up."

  "Speak."

  "Zhao Cheng just sneaked off to the East Granary and talked for a long time with Wang Laowu, the granary keeper." Qingwu said in a low voice. "I heard them mention 'moldy grain,' 'mix in,' 'tomorrow morning.'"

  Cui Yan's eyes narrowed.

  Moldy grain? Mix in? Tomorrow morning?

  She understood immediately—someone was plotting to frame her.

  "Qingwu," she stood up, "prepare the carriage. We're going to the East Granary."

  "Now?"

  "Now."

  Late at night, at the East Granary.

  Wang Laowu, the granary keeper, was dozing when he was suddenly startled awake by knocking.

  "Who's there?"

  "It's me, Cui Yan."

  Wang Laowu shuddered with fear and hurriedly opened the door.

  Cui Yan entered and surveyed the granary. It was large, filled with stacked sacks—all military provisions.

  "Open these." She pointed at a pile of sacks.

  Wang Laowu's hands trembled as he opened several sacks. Inside was high-quality millet, the grains plump and full.

  "Continue." Cui Yan said.

  He opened more sacks—still good grain.

  Wang Laowu breathed a sigh of relief—it seemed the moldy grain hadn't been mixed in yet.

  But Cui Yan did not stop. She walked to the back of the granary and pointed at a pile of newly arrived sacks. "These—open them."

  Wang Laowu's expression changed.

  "Quickly." Cui Yan's voice was cold.

  Wang Laowu had no choice but to comply.

  As the sacks were opened, a musty odor assailed their nostrils. The millet inside was blackened and covered in green mold.

  Cui Yan grabbed a handful, examined it, and smiled.

  "Wang Laowu, explain this?"

  Wang Laowu fell to his knees with a thud. "Lady Cui, spare me! It was... it was Master Guo who told me to do it! He said after it was done, he'd give me ten gold! I was momentarily confused..."

  "Guo Tu?" Cui Yan raised an eyebrow. "What did he tell you to do?"

  "He told me to mix the moldy grain in with the good grain. Tomorrow morning, when you came to allocate the provisions, he would expose you publicly, saying you were substituting inferior goods..." Wang Laowu confessed everything.

  Cui Yan nodded. "Good. I understand."

  She turned and walked away.

  Wang Laowu was stunned. "Lady Cui... you're not arresting me?"

  "Arrest you for what?" Cui Yan looked back and smiled faintly. "Do as Guo Tu told you. But don't mix the moldy grain into the good grain. Mix it into the grain stored at the porridge kitchen run by Guo Tu's family."

  Wang Laowu was dumbfounded.

  "Tomorrow morning, I will 'happen to' pass by the porridge kitchen and 'happen to' discover the moldy grain." Cui Yan said. "Then you will point the finger at Guo Tu. After it's done, I'll give you twenty gold and guarantee your family's safety."

  Wang Laowu's eyes lit up. "Re... really?"

  "I, Cui Yan, never break my word."

  "Good! This humble one will do as you say!"

  Cui Yan walked out of the East Granary. The night wind was cool.

  Qingwu whispered, "Young Mistress, will this be enough to bring down Guo Tu?"

  "No." Cui Yan shook her head. "But it will keep him quiet for a while. Yuan Shao still needs Guo Tu for now; he won't punish him severely. But after this, Guo Tu's standing in Yuan Shao's eyes will be diminished."

  "Then we..."

  "Wait." Cui Yan gazed at the night sky. "Chaotic times are long. We'll take it slowly."

  The stars in the night sky were moving westward. Dawn was not far off.

  VIII

  The next morning, Cui Yan "happened to" pass by the porridge kitchen run by Guo Tu's family.

  The kitchen was distributing porridge, with a long line of people waiting.

  Cui Yan entered, saying she was "inspecting the people's condition." The kitchen's manager was Guo Tu's distant nephew, named Guo Gui. He was arrogant and dismissive, paying Cui Yan no mind.

  "What brings Lady Cui here?" he asked lazily.

  "Checking the quality of the porridge." Cui Yan said. "With grain prices so high now, the people are suffering. Porridge kitchens are a lifeline; they must not be neglected."

  "Don't worry. Our Guo family's porridge kitchen has always been generous." Guo Gui thumped his chest.

  Cui Yan walked over to the porridge pot, ladled out a scoop, and examined it.

  The porridge was thin but fairly clean.

  She nodded and was about to leave when she "accidentally" knocked over a sack of grain.

  The sack split, spilling grain everywhere.

  Everyone stared, stunned.

  The grain... was moldy.

  Black, fuzzy, with a strange odor.

  The people lining up for porridge erupted.

  "Moldy grain! The Guo family is using moldy grain for their porridge!"

  "No wonder my stomach hurt after eating yesterday!"

  "Unscrupulous! Heartless!"

  Guo Gui's face changed drastically. "This... this isn't our grain! Someone is framing us!"

  "Framing you?" Cui Yan picked up a handful of moldy grain, her voice cold. "This sack came from your own warehouse, in plain sight of everyone. How could anyone frame you?"

  She turned to the crowd. "Fellow villagers, what has happened today, I, Cui Yan, will certainly set right. Everyone who received moldy porridge may register at the Governor's residence, and the Cui clan's商行 will compensate you household by household."

  The crowd cheered. "Thank you, Lady Cui!"

  Guo Gui tried to protest further, but Cui Yan had already ordered the kitchen sealed and Guo Gui and all account books taken away.

  The matter had blown up.

  When Yuan Shao learned of it, he was furious. He summoned Guo Tu for questioning.

  Guo Tu knelt on the ground, cold sweat pouring down. "My lord, be clear-sighted! This must be Cui Yan framing me! She's jealous of me and deliberately set this trap!"

  "Framing you?" Yuan Shao threw a sack of moldy grain before him. "This was found in your family's porridge kitchen! Witnesses and evidence are both present, and you still deny it?"

  "I... I am wronged, my lord!"

  "Wronged?" Yuan Shao smiled coldly. "Wang Laowu has already confessed. You told him to mix moldy grain into the military provisions to frame Cui Yan. But he got it wrong and mixed it into your family's porridge kitchen instead. Guo Tu, you have some nerve!"

  Guo Tu collapsed to the floor.

  He knew he was finished.

  "In consideration of your years of service, I will not kill you." Yuan Shao's voice was icy. "You are stripped of all positions and confined to your residence for three months to reflect on your errors. If there is a next time, you will be executed without mercy!"

  "Thank... thank you, my lord, for sparing my life..." Guo Tu kowtowed frantically.

  After dealing with Guo Tu, Yuan Shao summoned Cui Yan.

  "Lady Cui has suffered an injustice." His voice was gentle. "Guo Tu is narrow-minded; I have punished him severely."

  "Thank you, my lord, for upholding justice." Cui Yan bowed.

  "However," Yuan Shao's tone shifted, "this matter reminds me that for a woman to hold power easily invites trouble. Lady Cui, you are not getting any younger. Have you ever considered marriage?"

  Cui Yan's heart sank.

  Here it came.

  "I wish to serve you, my lord, my entire life and never marry." She said.

  "How can that be?" Yuan Shao smiled. "Women must eventually marry. Ji Province has many talented men—for instance, Ju Shou's son is twenty and unmarried. If you are willing, I could act as matchmaker."

  This was an attempt to control her through marriage.

  Cui Yan took a deep breath and spoke slowly: "I am deeply grateful for your kindness, my lord. But I have sworn never to marry, only to assist a wise lord in achieving great deeds. If you insist, my lord, I have no choice but to die."

  Her words were resolute.

  Yuan Shao's expression flickered, then he laughed. "Enough, enough. Since you are unwilling, I will not force you. It's just... a pity."

  "Thank you, my lord, for your understanding."

  As she left the Governor's residence, Cui Yan's back was drenched in cold sweat.

  Qingwu supported her. "Young Mistress, are you alright?"

  "I'm fine." Cui Yan shook her head. "Let's go back."

  Mistress and maid returned to the courier station.

  Cui Yan sat in her room, long silent.

  She knew she had passed this test, but Yuan Shao was now suspicious. The days ahead would be even harder.

  In chaotic times, it was too difficult for a woman to accomplish anything.

  As she thought, Qingwu handed her a confidential letter.

  "Young Mistress, from Xu Province."

  Cui Yan took it and opened it.

  It was from the Cui clan's manager in Xu Province, reporting on business matters. At the end of the letter, a postscript was added:

  "A wanderer passed through Xu Province recently, surname Li, given name Yan. He was inquiring about you, Young Mistress. He is now heading in the direction of Guangling."

  Li Yan?

  What was he going to Guangling for?

  Cui Yan held the letter, her heart a tumult of emotions.

  That fellow still remembered her.

  But what about her?

  Caught in a game of chess, not her own master.

  When would they meet again?

  She walked to the window and pushed it open.

  The night wind was cool, making her eyes sting.

  "Qingwu," she said softly, "is the tea still warm?"

  "It's kept warm," Qingwu said. "Always kept warm."

  Cui Yan smiled. And as she smiled, tears fell.

  Chaotic times were like a tide; people in the tide could only drift with the current.

  When would they reach the shore?

  She didn't know.