My father Liu Xuande

Chapter 180 Xun You's Six Strategies

One stone of frosting sugar costs 1.2 million coins, and one stone of snow salt costs 100,000 coins.

Millet costs 230 coins per shi (a unit of dry measure), and one shi of frosted sugar can be exchanged for nearly 5,000 shi of millet, while one shi of snow salt can be exchanged for more than 430 shi.

Rice, millet, and sorghum were more expensive, costing between 300 and 500 coins per shi (a unit of dry measure).

Mr. Liu had a strong interest in frosting sugar and snow salt. In those days, sugar was not only a delicacy, but also a precious medicinal material. Frosting sugar, in particular, with its pure color and high sweetness, was extremely popular.

However, although Liu Xian was very interested, he did not have enough power.

Before he arrived, Liu Biao, Kuai Yue, Kuai Liang and others had confided in him, allowing him to use money and grain to purchase salt, with a limit of 30 million coins.

Apart from Nanyang County, which suffered a huge loss of population, the other counties in Jingzhou are relatively intact, and the total population is still over four million.

During the Eastern Han Dynasty, adult men consumed 8 liters of salt per year, women and the elderly consumed 6 liters, and children consumed 4 liters.

Based on a family of four consisting of a couple and two children, they would need 22 liters of salt per year.

In the Han Dynasty, one liter was equal to 200 milliliters. The specific gravity of salt is 2 grams per milliliter, so one liter of salt weighs 400 grams, which is approximately equal to 18 jin (6 catties).

Jingzhou has a registered population of over one million and an annual salt demand of over 150,000 shi (a unit of dry measure).

The price of salt was between 1200 and 1500 coins per shi (石), which, even at the lowest price, would amount to nearly 200 million coins.

The authorization Liu Xian received was completely insufficient to cover the costs.

Logically speaking, the more dispersed the sources of salt in Jingzhou, the better.

Under normal circumstances, it would be impossible for Jingzhou to hand over all its salt needs to Xuzhou.

But what can we do when things aren't going as normal right now?

At this time, the most important thing for Jingzhou was salt, not the source of salt.

Liu Xian believed that as long as the information was relayed back, Jingzhou would definitely be willing to buy everything, and would even give him a great credit.

Therefore, Liu Xian said that he needed to send someone back to Jingzhou immediately to consult Liu Biao.

Liu Bei readily agreed and arranged for fast boats for Liu Xian's entourage.

Subsequently, Liu Xian, Xu Shao, Teng Zhou, and others settled down temporarily in Xuzhou.

Liu Bei arranged for Hua Tuo to go to the guesthouse to treat Xu Shao.

After Hua Tuo arrived, he discovered that Xu Shao suffered from asthma.

Liu Feng understood somewhat. This was probably because Xu Shao was getting old and was not used to the climate in Jiangdong. In addition, Liu Yao's reliance on him led to him having many affairs, which eventually caused him to develop bronchitis.

Hua Tuo prescribed the appropriate medicine for Xu Shao and advised him to rest more, which would naturally improve his condition.

Liu Bei also specially sent some frosting sugar, instructing Xu Shao to use it to nourish his body, but advising him not to use too much, and to eat a little every day to replenish his vital energy.

Xu Shao was deeply moved by this.

************
That evening, Xun You was once again invited into the prefectural government office by a royal carriage.

Just as he was about to get out of the car, he saw Liu Bei, the governor of Xuzhou, standing outside the car with his son Liu Feng, looking at him with a smile.

Xun You dared not presume and hurriedly tried to get out of the carriage to pay his respects.

Unexpectedly, Liu Bei personally reached out to help him up, which surprised and delighted him.

It must be said that Liu Bei's behavior, coupled with his honest and simple appearance, made him particularly likable and convincing.

After being helped off the carriage by Liu Bei, Xun You quickly stepped back and bowed deeply, saying, "I did not expect the governor to treat me so kindly; I am ashamed to accept such treatment."

Liu Bei stepped forward again and grasped Xun You's hand, forcefully lifting him up: "Mr. Gongda is a man of great wisdom and talent. I am by nature dull and clumsy, lacking in strategy, and therefore I greatly admire such a talented man as you. When I heard that you were in Xiangyang, I presumptuously sent a letter to invite you. It is not that I do not know etiquette, but that my admiration is beyond words, and I could only act rashly. I hope you will understand."

Even Xun You, with his vast experience and knowledge, was moved by Liu Bei.

Liu Bei spoke with such sincerity and earnestness that his words seemed to possess a magical quality, inspiring trust and making people feel that these were the heartfelt words of an honest man.

"I have long heard that the governor is respectful to the virtuous and eager to recruit talented people. I was skeptical, but after seeing him today, I realize that the truth is even more so than the rumors."

Xun You was a humble person by nature. Even if he was dissatisfied with Liu Bei's courteous treatment, he would not say anything that would offend people. Moreover, Xun You was indeed very moved at the moment.

So Xun You reciprocated, saying, "The governor of a province is so honored with such respect for talented people. Even someone as incompetent as me can receive such great favor. I'm sure that when this matter spreads, all the outstanding people in the world will know the governor's heart and will travel thousands of miles to come and submit to him."

Upon hearing Xun You's words, Liu Bei was overjoyed. He squeezed Xun You's hand and led the way inside, saying, "Mr. Gongda, please come in quickly. The banquet is ready and waiting for you."

Then, Liu Bei, holding Xun You's hand, led the way, with Liu Feng following behind them. The three of them arrived at the back hall and sat down as host and guest.

After the banquet began, Liu Bei did not urge Xun You to drink, but instead carefully explained the dishes to him.

Many people mistakenly believe that food in the Eastern Han Dynasty was very simple, but in fact, the Eastern Han Dynasty was a period of great innovation in cooking methods.

However, since the wok wasn't ready yet, no food was cooked.

It can be prepared using a variety of methods such as slicing, roasting, steaming, making soup, grilling, mixing, curing, pickling, and making dried meat. Although it is far less advanced than in the later era of Liu Feng, it was still very rich in the Eastern Han Dynasty.

However, these practices are very costly and often beyond the reach of ordinary families.

Even for aristocratic families, enjoying a meal of fine food required a considerable price and a significant amount of manpower and resources.

Liu Feng knew that Xun You was a humble person, and that he was frugal and simple, so he was afraid that extravagance would displease him.

Therefore, most of the dishes prepared were common dishes, with the main dishes being stewed meat, steamed eggs, and steamed fish.

Because of the addition of snow salt, the taste was extremely delicious and without any bitterness, which surprised and delighted Xun You. He was quite surprised and satisfied.

After half a round of drinks and five courses of food,

Liu Bei began trying to recruit Xun You, saying, "Mr. Gongda, you have been in my Xuzhou for some time now. I wonder what advice you have for my Xuzhou and for me?"

Xun You was well aware of Liu Bei's thoughts.

The so-called request for advice was just a pretext; what the other party really wanted to elicit was their subsequent recruitment.

If you intend to respond to the criticism, then you can speak frankly and directly to express your political stance. If the two sides do not agree, then you should not force yourselves together.

On the other hand, it was also a way to demonstrate one's abilities and talents so that a suitable official position could be assigned to them.

If you have no intention of responding to criticism, then a few empty words of praise will suffice, and the other party will understand your position.

Xun You remained silent for a moment before speaking: "The governor of Xu has been frugal in his administration, gathering refugees and encouraging land reclamation. These are all good policies, so there is no need for me to say more."

Upon hearing Xun You's words, not only was Liu Bei disappointed, but Liu Feng was also quite dejected.

After all this effort, Xun You still looks down on his own father?
Since that's the case, then we can only part ways amicably.

Although Xun You was a formidable opponent, Liu Bei would never do anything to harm others.

This was not only a reflection of Liu Bei's character, but also a wise move.

If Xun You were to be murdered after being invited to Xuzhou, what would the world think of Liu Bei?
Even the many scholars under Liu Bei's command would probably be in uproar over this.

Liu Bei could not hide his disappointment, but he still forced himself to say, "I will never forget your words, sir. I offer you this cup of wine in my hope that you will soon meet a wise ruler and be able to display your talents."

Liu Bei picked up his wine cup, but saw Xun You sitting still, and a thought suddenly struck him.

But then Xun You spoke slowly, “Your Majesty’s foundation lies entirely in Xuzhou. Since ancient times, Xuzhou has been a battleground, easy to attack but difficult to defend. Even with Xiang Yu’s bravery, he was still defeated by Emperor Gaozu. I am not talented, but I have come up with six brilliant strategies for you. I am grateful for your kindness and wish to present them to you.”

Liu Bei was overjoyed and quickly replied, "Please, Mr. Gongda, speak freely. I am all ears."

Xun You straightened up and cupped his hands in greeting to Liu Bei: "Firstly, in today's world, wars are frequent, and people everywhere are suffering. I left Chang'an and went east to return to my hometown of Yingchuan. Later, I wanted to go to Shu and head south to Xiangyang. Along the way, I saw bones exposed in the wilderness, and for a thousand miles, not a rooster crowed. In my humble opinion, the Central Plains will surely be short of people in the future."

"Your Excellency's strategy of gathering refugees and settling them in to cultivate land is a great virtue. It not only demonstrates Your Excellency's benevolence but also strengthens Xuzhou's power. It should be further promoted." "Your Excellency, you have been staying with Liu Biao in Xiangyang for several years. The grain stored in Jingzhou is worth several million shi. Your Excellency can send someone to purchase it. Duke Jing Sheng is currently looking to establish good relations with Xuzhou and will certainly not obstruct you. This is a fundamental strategy."

"My lord, since ancient times, Xu and Yang have been inseparable. In the past, Xiang Yu, the Hegemon-King of Western Chu, was defeated by my Emperor Gao. Ying Bu's strength was the key to the struggle between the two sides. In the end, Emperor Gao was more skillful and successfully won over Ying Bu, thus cutting off one of Xiang Yu's arms and beginning to switch from defense to offense."

At the end of the Qin Dynasty and the beginning of the Han Dynasty, Ying Bu first followed Xiang Yu, defeated Qin and restored Chu, and was enfeoffed as the King of Jiujiang.

At that time, the Kingdom of Jiujiang covered most of present-day Yangzhou, including Lujiang Commandery and Jiujiang Commandery in the north of the Yangtze River, Danyang Commandery in the south of the Yangtze River, and part of Yuzhang Commandery.

If Ying Bu stands with Xiang Yu, Xiang Yu will no longer have to worry about the threat from the left flank. Moreover, with Yangzhou forming a strategic triangle, Xiang Yu will have a much stronger position and greater strategic depth. If Liu Bang wants to win, it will not only be impossible, but it will also be much more difficult.

Modern Yangzhou also includes the well-developed Wu Commandery, as well as the Ouyue and Minyue kingdoms from the late Qin and early Han dynasties.

Xun You was subtly implying to Liu Bei that Yangzhou was the most important direction for the development of Xuzhou.

“My lord, although the Central Plains are a desirable place, it is now a battlefield, with war raging everywhere and displaced people scattered. It is a burden rather than a benefit.”

Xun You's simple face showed a hint of excitement: "Emperor Gaozu was able to achieve victory in one battle after suffering repeated defeats by occupying Yong and Yi. Why don't you follow the example of your ancestors and first occupy Xu and Yang? Then you can retreat to stabilize the people of the region and wait for the right time. If you advance, you can exert your power and virtue, eliminate the evil forces, and assist the Han Dynasty. Your achievements will be no less than those of Duke Huan of Qi and Duke Wen of Jin."

"This is a strategy to increase benefits."

Liu Bei nodded repeatedly as he listened, and couldn't help but glance at Liu Feng.

The reason is that Xun You's strategy was extremely similar to Liu Feng's. Could it be that his son's abilities were already on par with those of Xun Gongda, a famous scholar in the world?

"Thirdly, the struggle between Cao Cao and Lü Bu in Yanzhou has lasted for nearly a year."

Xun You continued, turning the topic to Yanzhou: "In my humble opinion, Lü Bu is no match for Cao Cao. At the earliest, it will be a few months, at the latest, half a year. Lü Bu will be defeated by Cao Cao, and he will have no choice but to seek refuge in Xuzhou."

Liu Bei's heart skipped a beat again, and he glanced at Liu Feng once more.

His own son was quite short-tempered. Even though Xun You's words were exactly the same as his, he remained calm and composed, showing no sign of his true character.

"My lord, if Lü Bu really comes to surrender, this will be a hot potato."

Xun You's face showed a helpless expression: "To be honest, my lord, Lü Bu did save my life."

"oh?!"

Liu Bei looked surprised. He actually knew about this, as Liu Feng had mentioned it to him, praising Xun You for his fearlessness in the face of death, saying he was no ordinary person.

"Is there such a thing?"

Xun You then recounted how he plotted to assassinate Dong Zhuo in Chang'an, but the plot failed, he was arrested, imprisoned, and awaited trial. He then happened to encounter Wang Yun and Lü Bu killing Dong Zhuo and rescued him.

As Liu Bei listened, he praised Xun You for his fearlessness in the face of death.

After making a few humble remarks, Xun You continued, “My lord, no matter how fickle Lü Bu’s temperament may be, and how utterly disloyal he may be, he has rendered meritorious service to the Han dynasty by upholding justice and eliminating traitors, which is known to all under heaven. If Lü Bu comes to surrender, if you take him in, you may face internal strife; if you do not take him in, you may lose the hopes of the people.”

Upon hearing this, Liu Bei showed a hesitant expression, which aroused Xun You's curiosity.

"Does Your Excellency already have a plan?"

Upon hearing Xun You's question, Liu Bei nodded: "To be honest, I have an idea that I would like to ask for your opinion on."

Xun You respectfully replied, "I dare not presume, but I humbly request that Your Excellency reveal the truth."

Liu Bei said, "What do you think, Gongda, if we were to send his troops to Qingzhou and place them under Kong Beihai's command?"

Upon hearing this, Xun You immediately laughed: "My lord, this is exactly the strategy I wish to present."

It turns out that Xun You had the same idea without prior consultation.

Xun You continued, "Kong Beihai has always held Lü Bu in high esteem and greatly admires him. Lü Bu is also at odds with Yuan Shao. If we place him in Qingzhou, he will serve as a northern shield for our Xuzhou. However, we still cannot be careless. We need a wise strategist to be stationed in Langya to ensure we have no worries."

Liu Bei nodded repeatedly, saying, "What Gongda said is very reasonable, and I will follow it."

Historically, Kong Rong greatly admired Lü Bu, praising him highly. Lü Bu was indeed very lenient towards famous scholars. Not to mention being fooled by Chen Gui and his son Chen Deng, even when Chen Gong rebelled against him and was caught red-handed, he ultimately acted as if nothing had happened.

On the contrary, Gao Shun, who had made meritorious contributions in suppressing the rebellion, was punished. His command of the Trapped Camp was taken away by Lü Bu and given to his brother-in-law Wei Xu to lead until the war was over.

Xun You then offered three more strategies.

"The fourth strategy is to use the pretext of attacking Guo. Your Excellency can recommend Yuan Shao's son as a talented scholar and support him as the governor of Qingzhou in exchange for preserving Kong Wenju's Beihai Kingdom. In this way, Your Excellency will not only protect Kong Beihai, which is friendly to me, but also prevent Yuan Tan from having any excuse to continue expanding and oppressing my Langya."

"The fifth strategy is to befriend distant states while attacking nearby ones. Your Excellency can secretly send envoys to Bashu to befriend Liu Zhang."

"Although Liu Zhang is somewhat weak, he is not without wisdom. He is not ambitious and only wants to carve out a territory in Bashu and become a regional warlord. We can secretly form an alliance with him."

"Liu Jingsheng of Jingzhou is outwardly lenient but inwardly ruthless. He appears indifferent but harbors ambitions. Judging from your observation, he must have something in mind regarding Yangzhou. Now he has sent an envoy, firstly to befriend you, secondly to test Xu and Yang, and thirdly to ascertain their strength. If anything happens in Yangzhou, Liu Jingsheng will surely sail down the river and conquer cities and territories."

"The sixth strategy is to make flowers bloom on trees."

Xun You recited several strategies in one breath and became somewhat thirsty. Liu Bei quickly ordered someone to bring him tea and waited patiently.

After quenching his thirst a little, Xun You continued, "Now the emperor is still in Guanzhong, being deceived by the bandits of Liangzhou. You, my lord, are a member of the Han imperial family. Why not send someone to the capital to pay tribute and let the emperor know that there are still members of the imperial family in Xuzhou, and that their loyalty to the Han dynasty has not been abandoned?"

"These six strategies are the result of my painstaking efforts, and I present them to you, my lord. You may choose the feasible one and try it out."

Liu Bei was overjoyed and rose from his seat to bow deeply to Xun You, saying, "I am delighted to receive your advice, sir. I am not talented enough, but I humbly request that you stay by my side and point out my shortcomings."

Xun You also rose from his seat, bowed, and said, "I am of limited talent and learning, and I did not expect Your Excellency to be so kind to me. If Your Excellency does not despise me, I am willing to serve Your Excellency with utmost loyalty."

"Good! Good! Great!"

Liu Bei was overjoyed and quickly walked to Xun You, helping him up.

"Gongda, there are currently three positions available, and you may choose one."

Liu Bei introduced, "The first is the position of Prefect of Guangling. This position has been vacant for a long time. If you, Gongda, are interested, I will recommend you."

The prefect was a high-ranking official with a salary of two thousand shi (a unit of grain), and the power to recommend and appoint such officials should have been reserved for the central government.

However, since the abolition of the governorship system and the establishment of the governorship system, the governorship has become like the ruler of a country. As long as the power is sufficient, the governorship has long since seized the power to appoint and dismiss the governors and prime ministers of the various prefectures and counties.

When Liu Bei entered Xu Province, although he was a weak governor, he had won consecutive battles over the past six months and had firmly grasped control of the army. The gentry of Xu Province were also quite supportive of Liu Bei because of the light taxes and corvée labor.

With the addition of pro-Liu Bei figures like Chen Deng and Mi Zhu, Liu Bei had transformed into a powerful governor in Xuzhou.

Of all the states in the land, perhaps only Yuan Shao of Ji Province could surpass Liu Bei.

This is precisely why Liu Bei has been able to retain the position of Prefect of Guangling until now, and make decisions with a single word.

However, at Liu Feng's urging, Liu Bei decided to split Guangling Commandery in two. The part closer to the front line had long been Guangling Commandery, while the part along the coast in the rear would be split into Haixi Commandery.

Xuzhou is too small, and the number of places that can accommodate two thousand shi (a unit of grain measure) is too small. It still needs to be expanded.

Once Yangzhou is captured, the situation will improve significantly.

"If Gongda wishes to remain in the prefecture, I will treat him as a military officer."

Liu Bei then explained to Xun You what "Military Affairs Officer" meant. Simply put, it meant controlling intelligence in Xuzhou, being responsible for gathering various information, and reporting directly to Liu Bei.

Although this position was created by Liu Bei, in terms of importance and the level of trust he enjoyed, it probably couldn't even compare to the position of Biejia Ceshi.

"Thirdly, besides the position of Prefect, Xun You can choose from the three positions of Chief Administrator, Chief Secretary, and Chief Clerk."

The reason why the position of "Biejia" (a minor official) is not acceptable is that, according to custom, the position is reserved for prominent figures of the state; it is an unspoken rule.

If Liu Bei were to rashly break this rule, it would certainly cause dissatisfaction among many scholars in Xuzhou, which would be completely unnecessary.

Xun You was well aware of this and understood the reason behind it.

Finally, Liu Bei added, "If Gongda has any other ideas, please feel free to tell me. As long as they are reasonable, I will follow them without hesitation."

(End of this chapter)