Chapter 115: Intersection

Upon hearing Emperor Liu Che's inquiry, Wei Qing promptly replied, “I believe there are five reasons why the ancient garrison forces achieved such a decisive victory. Beyond the three points the General Qin just mentioned, there are two more: reforms in military organization and innovations in tactics.

The military reform introduced the distinction between light and heavy cavalry. By separating these two, the cavalry could exploit their respective advantages. The tactical innovations enabled swift raids over vast distances, forcing the Xiongnu to retreat and reinforce. Both of these, however, hinge upon the element of surprise. It is precisely through catching the enemy unawares that such a great victory was won.”

Qin Cheng listened intently to Wei Qing’s words and heartily agreed, thinking to himself that Wei Qing’s sharp mind was truly remarkable—no wonder he was celebrated as a great general through the ages.

“Indeed,” Liu Che said slowly, “but at its core, the success lies in the cavalry reforms in Shanggu Commandery. Without this reform, all else is mere talk. Thus, it is clear that the cavalry reforms of the Shanggu garrison were a resounding success.”

“Your Majesty is wise!” Qin Cheng and Wei Qing said in unison.

Having spoken, Liu Che finally had time to attend to the attendant reminding him to dine. He beckoned Qin Cheng and Wei Qing, “Since it is time to eat, come dine with me. Afterward, we shall continue our discussion.”

Rising to his feet, Liu Che stretched as though in good spirits before leading Wei Qing and Qin Cheng to the dining hall. Though they intended to resume their conversation after the meal, the three did not idle during dinner; Liu Che continued discussing matters with Qin Cheng and Wei Qing throughout the meal, which lasted over an hour.

After finishing, the trio returned to the Xuanshi Chamber to continue their deliberations, and this dialogue extended for an entire day.

To onlookers, it was unusual for Liu Che to spend such prolonged time conversing at length with a non-court official. They wondered who this young general was to receive such attention.

Later, when these onlookers learned that this young commander was the Colonel of the Cavalry who had led 4,000 horsemen from Shanggu to rout tens of thousands of Xiongnu cavalry, their faces lit up with understanding. “So this is the fierce warrior—it all makes sense now!”

Liu Che had naturally investigated Qin Cheng’s background in detail, but the information was disappointing: Qin Cheng was neither descended from a noble clan nor from a fallen gentry family. His humble origins as a commoner did not dishearten Liu Che; rather, it piqued his interest further. He came to believe that talent was not lacking among the common people—what was lacking were the eyes to discover it.

Since Qin Cheng first proposed the unprecedented concept of developing distinct light and heavy cavalry, Liu Che had been deeply curious about him. Yet, upon meeting Qin Cheng this time, Liu Che was truly shaken. Qin Cheng’s understanding of the situation between Han and Xiongnu surpassed that of anyone he had previously consulted. Moreover, Qin Cheng’s insights into cavalry tactics were refreshing, giving Liu Che the feeling of a discerning master finally encountering a steed of unparalleled caliber.

“The conflict between Han and Xiongnu is one of life and death,” Qin Cheng said. “Unless one nation is utterly destroyed, the warfare cannot cease. Though the vast desert offers endless grasslands and abundant pastures, these alone cannot provide a comfortable life. The Xiongnu lack ironware, ceramics, and other goods that only our Han can supply. Normal trade is evidently ineffective, so they must resort to plundering. Moreover, for six or seven decades, their way of life and mindset have been shaped by taking what they lack through raids. Therefore, as long as the Xiongnu nation stands, they will not stop harassing our borders. This cannot be solved by a few victories; it requires a final solution—annihilating the Xiongnu state!”

Qin Cheng’s discourse grew expansive and eloquent.

“To defeat the Xiongnu, the Han’s key lies in the cavalry, but fundamentally it depends on national strength. Without a powerful state to support it, not to mention training an iron cavalry, even if one forces a cavalry force into existence, inadequate supply and logistics during battle will prevent victory.

Secondly, morale is paramount, which depends on the soldiers’ loyalty and clear rewards and punishments. Soldiers who are loyal to Han all desire the destruction of the Xiongnu—this is emotional commitment. Rewarding merit and punishing failure allows ordinary soldiers to earn a future through their battlefield efforts, while those who falter face due penalties—this is the principle of just rewards and punishments…”

Whenever Liu Che posed a question, Qin Cheng answered without hesitation. Before coming, Qin Cheng resolved that he would say all that he knew if given the chance—he could not afford to leave anything unsaid, uncertain how many opportunities would be granted.

At first, the dialogue was a question-and-answer exchange; Liu Che nodded in approval, then asked more, and Qin Cheng responded. Gradually, whenever Liu Che gave him an opening, Qin Cheng spoke at length. As Qin Cheng spoke, both Liu Che and Wei Qing grew thoughtful, leading the three to further discussion.

No one could have anticipated that the talks between Qin Cheng and Liu Che would last three full days.

During these days, the three were inseparable, almost sleeping side by side. This closeness fostered warmth and openness in their conversations, creating a harmonious bond between ruler and ministers.

After all, the Han empire was ultimately the domain of the Liu family. Liu Che, as head of the Liu house, was naturally pleased to encounter ministers who could strengthen his realm.

After three days, Liu Che finally granted Qin Cheng leave to rest outside the palace. Moreover, it was hardly fitting for the emperor to be constantly engrossed with a single subject when numerous affairs of state awaited his attention. The insights gained over the three days of discourse would surely provide Liu Che with much to ponder.

Wei Qing and Qin Cheng left the Weiyang Palace together as dusk approached.

Upon exiting the palace gates, Wei Qing regarded Qin Cheng with a look akin to examining a curious creature, appraising him thoroughly. Qin Cheng, embarrassed and puzzled, asked, “Brother Wei, why do you look at me like that? Could it be that the palace cuisine has fattened me these days?”

Wei Qing clicked his tongue thoughtfully. “When we went to Shanggu before, I knew only of your extraordinary cavalry insights. But after hearing your discussions with His Majesty over these days, I realize you are not just knowledgeable about cavalry; you possess unparalleled talent in governance and securing the realm. Unexpected indeed! Brother Qin, a mere commoner, yet so capable—truly fit to serve as a general and prime minister! Compared to you, I, Wei Qing, feel as though I have been looking at the world from the bottom of a well, despite having served near His Majesty all these years.”

Qin Cheng saw the sincerity in Wei Qing’s words and thought to himself: After all, I am from the 21st century, two thousand years ahead of you all—how could it be the same? Besides, I have only spoken of what I know; implementing these ideas is another matter. In truth, I have just been talking!

Yet outwardly he responded, “Brother Wei, are you praising me or mocking me? If I were truly as capable as you say, the Xiongnu would have been wiped out long ago, and the world would be at peace. Ultimately, I’m just talking; those who do the real work are still needed.”

Wei Qing shook his head, his eyes sparkling. “Who knows? Perhaps one day you truly will lead troops to sweep the Xiongnu away. I believe you alone among all generals have that potential.”

Qin Cheng was taken aback by Wei Qing’s words. Wei Qing was a legendary general who had nearly brought the vast steppes to heel; now he said Qin Cheng was the only one capable of such a feat. Only Qin Cheng himself could deeply appreciate this feeling. Smiling wryly, he said, “If that day ever comes, I hope it will be you and I together.”

Wei Qing paused, seemingly moved by Qin Cheng’s resolute words and stirred by the spirit of camaraderie. He said, “If that day truly arrives, you and I will together bring extraordinary glory to Han and to His Majesty.”

“Agreed! It’s a promise!” Qin Cheng felt his heart stir at Wei Qing’s words.

This man before him had led a handful of soldiers left by Huo Qubing and routed the Xiongnu main force, driving Yizhixie to flee with only a hundred men. Hearing Wei Qing say he alone might accomplish what few dared dream, Qin Cheng recalled his comrades from a past life, their shared trials and triumphs. Looking at Wei Qing, he felt the same stirring as when he had sworn brotherhood with his comrades long ago.

“A gentleman’s word is as binding as four horses racing,” Wei Qing said solemnly.

They each extended a hand, clasped firmly with a resounding slap, exchanged a glance, and then burst into laughter.

“I, Wei Qing, would only behave like this with you, Qin Cheng. To think we’ve known each other less than half a year and met only twice—under ordinary circumstances, I’d find this astounding!” Wei Qing said sincerely.

Qin Cheng nodded, knowing how cautious Wei Qing was serving near Liu Che. That Wei Qing could be so open with him was unexpected but all the more precious.

“Since we share such kindred spirits, why be troubled by mundane doubts? Even if you distrust me, can you not trust yourself?” Qin Cheng laughed.

“How could I distrust you?” Wei Qing feigned anger, then laughed heartily. “Even if I did, I trust myself!”

They laughed heartily together, Qin Cheng giving Wei Qing a hearty pat on the back—though the force nearly staggered Wei Qing, almost knocking him down. Before Wei Qing could recover, Qin Cheng had already stepped back, laughing even louder.

“You stingy fellow!” Wei Qing muttered, watching Qin Cheng’s retreating figure.

These two men, destined to become fierce generals of the steppes, had today forged a bond in the bustling streets of Chang’an through this simple and somewhat extraordinary exchange. In future histories of Han, a new tale of friendship would be recorded.

Yes, a tale of two men.