Chapter Forty-Nine: How Many Bitter Things Lie Before Me

These days, Qin Cheng was truly enjoying a rare leisure. Ever since Wei Qing had returned to Chang'an, Li Guang, whose county affairs had been delayed due to Wei Qing, was now busy catching up, and thus had fewer dealings with Qin Cheng. The general direction for developing the cavalry had already been established, and now all that remained was to await news from Chang'an. Without word from the capital, there was little that could be done in Shanggu, and however much Li Guang and Qin Cheng discussed, without the means to implement, it was all for naught.

Qin Cheng's current status was rather awkward. Though he bore the title of Junior Appointee, Li Guang had yet to assign him any official post. Qin Cheng surmised that Li Guang was likely waiting for confirmation from Chang'an before deciding whether to create a position tailored for Qin Cheng in the cavalry's development. After all, no one understood this undertaking better than Qin Cheng himself, though perhaps this was Li Guang's wishful thinking.

With nothing to occupy him, Qin Cheng asked Ji Zhu to procure a few military treatises for him. Although he had studied "The Art of War" in his previous life, its value lay more in strategy than in practical details. Qin Cheng knew that to make a mark in cavalry affairs, ignorance of military science was unacceptable. Previously, his battlefield successes owed much to his sharpened mind from his past life, and his strategic innovations in light and heavy cavalry were a breakthrough. But this was no guarantee of invincibility. He didn't even know how to train cavalry, let alone organize their marching formations; it was an utter mystery to him. Thus, in recent days, Qin Cheng buried himself in his tent, reading day and night, dispelling his earlier idle tranquility.

Le Yi came to visit Qin Cheng several times, each time entering the tent drenched in sweat, surprised to see the man who used to dread the sight of scrolls now reading by candlelight. He could only smile wryly, thinking the boy had truly changed. Whenever Qin Cheng saw Le Yi, he would flash a wolfish grin as if he'd spotted prey. It was a matter of necessity: Qin Cheng recognized simplified characters from his previous life, and though he knew many seal script characters, there were plenty he did not. Le Yi's visits were like lifelines to him. Each time Le Yi came in high spirits, Qin Cheng would leave him bewildered and dispirited, for Qin Cheng not only struggled with some characters but also failed to grasp much of the classical language, forcing him to rely on Le Yi's help. Though Le Yi had read more than most, this meant only compared to Qin Cheng; being subjected to Qin Cheng’s endless questions was exhausting. Finally, Qin Cheng sighed to the heavens: was there not a single literate soul in the entire Qiansang military camp?

"Junior Appointee, loud voices are forbidden in the camp. Are you unaware?" Suddenly, the pale-faced Liu Mu appeared at the door, coldly addressing Qin Cheng.

Seeing Liu Mu, Qin Cheng ignored his icy demeanor and stood up. "Ah, Doctor Liu, may I ask if you are literate?"

Liu Mu, now granted the rank of Doctor, was thus addressed as such by Qin Cheng.

"Of course I am," Liu Mu replied, though puzzled by the question.

"Excellent, then! Please take a look for me—there are many phrases in this book I don't quite understand," Qin Cheng said eagerly, attempting to pull Liu Mu inside.

Before Qin Cheng could grasp him, Liu Mu slipped into the tent first, deftly avoiding contact. "Junior Appointee, are you reading military treatises?"

Liu Mu nodded to Le Yi in greeting, then moved straight to the desk.

"The 'Tradition'? Junior Appointee, have you never read General Guan Ying's cavalry treatise before?" Liu Mu picked up the scroll, glanced at it, and looked at Qin Cheng in surprise.

"Indeed, I have not. I'm just starting now," Qin Cheng replied naturally, showing no embarrassment at never having read the foundational cavalry treatise by the Han dynasty's founding general. "But there are many phrases I don't quite comprehend, so I hope Doctor Liu will generously enlighten me, ha!"

Liu Mu looked at Qin Cheng, then at Le Yi, and seemed to recall something, the displeasure on his face fading somewhat, though his curiosity lingered. "There’s no need to speak of enlightenment. But I confess I am surprised: at the old horse plain drill, Junior Appointee amazed the entire camp, and yet you haven't even read the 'Tradition'? Truly unexpected."

"What's so surprising? Is it impossible to command troops without reading military treatises—impossible to know formation and tactics?" Before Qin Cheng could reply, Le Yi interjected, his tone somewhat hostile.

"Then, according to Doctor Le, is there no need to study military treatises at all?" Liu Mu retorted, not giving it much thought. Le Yi now held the rank of Five Doctor, so the title was appropriate.

"Doctor Liu, that's not what I meant. I do not dismiss the value of military treatises; I simply dislike those who, after reading a few books, consider themselves superior and freely criticize others. Doctor Liu, please refrain from affixing labels at will," Le Yi answered coldly, staring at Liu Mu.

"Consider themselves superior? I think those who have never read military treatises are even more prone to arrogance than those who have," Liu Mu replied with a snort, retorting in kind.

"All right, all right! Why must you two quarrel as soon as you meet? I’m not bothered, why are you in such a hurry? Truly, the emperor is calm but the eunuchs are anxious," Qin Cheng quickly stepped in to mediate. It was no surprise: Le Yi was a proud and aloof man, fiercely protective, and naturally took offense at Liu Mu, who was even colder and blunt in speech, disregarding Qin Cheng's feelings, which irritated Le Yi.

The two exchanged cold snorts and fell silent.

"Doctor Liu, don't mind him. My friend has a fiery temper and can't stand me being slighted. He means no offense, and in truth, I don't feel slighted either," Qin Cheng said earnestly to Liu Mu, knowing his nature was not bad and thus explaining himself.

With Qin Cheng smoothing things over, Le Yi and Liu Mu ceased their rivalry. Soon, they earnestly began to study the military treatise. To call it "study" was generous; most of the time, Liu Mu lectured, as both Qin Cheng and Le Yi were novices in this field. Qin Cheng listened intently, frequently asking questions, which Liu Mu answered with ease. Only now did Qin Cheng realize the depth of Liu Mu's knowledge of military treatises—it was extraordinary. Whether "Six Strategies," "Sun Bin's Art of War," "Wei Liaozi," or "Guiguzi," Liu Mu could draw from all of them to explain the current "Tradition," referencing widely, elucidating clearly, leaving nothing unaddressed, his logic impeccable.

After finishing a chapter, Qin Cheng was secretly amazed. Liu Mu was merely a personal cavalry guard at Li Guang's side, yet possessed such insight. This Qiansang garrison truly harbored hidden talents.

"It’s getting late. I won't linger today. When opportunity arises, I’ll study with Junior Appointee again," Liu Mu said, rubbing his temples, a hint of fatigue in his voice.

"Very well. Thank you for your help today, Doctor Liu. Next time you bathe, I'll treat you to wine in the city!" Qin Cheng joked.

"A trifling matter, not worth mentioning. As for wine... perhaps another time," Liu Mu replied, saluted Qin Cheng, and prepared to leave the tent. As he departed, he glanced arrogantly at Le Yi, causing the good impression Le Yi had just formed due to Liu Mu’s erudition to vanish instantly. Le Yi wanted to glare back, but Liu Mu had already withdrawn his gaze and turned away, leaving Le Yi grinding his teeth in frustration.

Qin Cheng escorted Liu Mu to the doorway and suddenly adopted a serious tone. "Doctor Liu, I’ve discovered something."

Liu Mu, seeing Qin Cheng’s earnest expression, thought another question was coming and turned. "What is it?"

"Your hands are so pale!" Qin Cheng said with utmost seriousness, staring at Liu Mu’s hands.

"Get out!"

...

Since discovering Liu Mu’s talent for military treatises, Qin Cheng frequently sought him out, inviting him every few days under the pretext of joint study, but in reality, sincerely seeking guidance. Li Guang had previously suggested Qin Cheng study military treatises with Li Gan, and now Qin Cheng using Liu Mu as a resource gave him a legitimate excuse. However, whenever Qin Cheng and Liu Mu discussed military treatises, Li Gan would stand by, initially dismissive of Qin Cheng's ignorance. But as he watched Qin Cheng learn and gradually gain insight, even offering unique perspectives, Li Gan could no longer restrain himself and joined the study sessions.

During one visit, Li Guang came to inspect Qin Cheng’s tent. Seeing Li Gan seriously engaged alongside Qin Cheng and Liu Mu, the old general revealed a gratified smile.

"General, about Doctor Liu..." As he left Qin Cheng's tent, Li Hu, captain of the personal guards, hesitated.

Li Guang waved his hand, not stopping. "It's fine. There won't be any problems."

"But Junior Appointee Qin is no ordinary character. If, by any chance..." Li Hu persisted.

"Qin Lang is not a sage; how can he be so formidable? And even if he were, it’s not an issue..." Li Guang replied indifferently.

"If that’s the general’s view, then I have nothing more to worry about," Li Hu said.

Inside the tent, the three engrossed in military study were oblivious to the conversation outside. Their study naturally centered around Liu Mu. Li Gan, though he had read many treatises since childhood, lacked Liu Mu’s depth of understanding and application. When Liu Mu expounded, Li Gan could only stand obediently and listen alongside Qin Cheng. At first, Li Gan and Liu Mu played the same role, both instructing Qin Cheng, but as time passed, Li Gan discovered Qin Cheng's astonishing ability to infer and adapt. This talent left Li Gan feeling powerless, and Qin Cheng seemed to possess a knack for laying traps: he knew little, but his application was unpredictable and ingenious. Li Gan, once fond of flaunting his knowledge, was repeatedly rendered speechless by Qin Cheng, at first blushing, but eventually growing accustomed and accepting it, though he still thought to himself: eloquence does not equal skill; we’ll see on the battlefield.

Liu Mu, seeing Qin Cheng progress rapidly and offer profound insights—sometimes even stumping Liu Mu himself, especially when Qin Cheng deliberately set traps—could only fall silent or be caught every time, without suspense. Liu Mu was exasperated, sighing inwardly that he was no ordinary man, and indeed, teaching the disciple starves the master. Yet, recalling Qin Cheng’s recent military innovations, though unwilling, he gradually accepted it.

Qin Cheng, watching Li Gan lose his temper and Liu Mu look frustrated, felt a small joy but did not let it go to his head. He considered self-awareness one of his greatest strengths; though he could sometimes outargue Li Gan and Liu Mu, it did not mean he had truly surpassed them in military scholarship. Their breadth differed, and he still had much room for improvement.

Thus, several more days passed, and Qin Cheng’s calm life reached its end. One day, Li Guang summoned Qin Cheng to the central command tent. Upon entering, Qin Cheng saw several senior officers already present, and more arrived in succession. When everyone was gathered, Li Guang addressed them solemnly. "Last time, we submitted to His Majesty our proposal to develop cavalry in this region. Today, we have the results."

Li Guang spoke, picking up a piece of embroidered silk and showing it to the group. "Today, I have received His Majesty’s decree. His Majesty has given a clear directive regarding our proposal."

All eyes were drawn to the silk in Li Guang’s hand, gazing at it with eager anticipation.

Qin Cheng felt his heartbeat suddenly quicken, a rare touch of nervousness. He could not help but smile inwardly at the unfamiliar sensation. How many years had it been since he felt this, since his days in the underworld of his past life?

It seems only those without desire can maintain composure.

Li Guang swept his gaze around the officers, finally resting it on Qin Cheng. He spoke clearly and deliberately: "His Majesty has granted our request, permitting us to vigorously develop cavalry in Shanggu Commandery!"

"Excellent!"

"His Majesty’s decree!"

"Splendid!"

The officers struck their hands in excitement, deeply moved, for this concerned the future of the entire Qiansang garrison.

"His Majesty promises to support us with warhorses, armor, and weapons, so that we may set an example for all border commanderies!" Li Guang continued, rousing them further.

A fresh wave of applause erupted, voices calling out in delight.

"Finally, His Majesty appoints me to oversee all aspects of this military reform, and specifically commands Qin Cheng, Junior Appointee Qin, to take charge of cavalry training, granting him the title of Cavalry Colonel!" Li Guang declared loudly.

No sooner had Li Guang finished than the tent fell silent. All eyes turned to Qin Cheng.

Qin Cheng silently marveled at Liu Che’s charisma. When he acted, he acted boldly. Qin Cheng had only been in the army a short while, yet entrusted with such a crucial post—surely Wei Qing had sung his praises. Yet, considering Wei Qing's situation, Qin Cheng was at ease. He suddenly thought of Napoleon, the future Emperor of France, whose marshals were mostly under thirty. It seems that, in all ages, those who achieve greatness must possess such charisma.

"Qin Cheng thanks His Majesty for his grace!" Qin Cheng thought thus, but his actions were prompt, saluting according to protocol.

The officers watched Qin Cheng become the biggest beneficiary of this military reform. Their feelings were mixed: some, having witnessed Qin Cheng’s talent and valor, felt he deserved the responsibility; others, doubting his experience, were dissatisfied. Regardless of their thoughts, the matter was settled. Qin Cheng’s post as Cavalry Colonel was now assured.

After giving thanks, Qin Cheng returned to his place, his gaze steady, not bothering with the reactions around him. Others might assume he was overjoyed, eager to celebrate. But in truth, there was only gravity. Sometimes, what one desires most is pursued relentlessly, but once attained, its weight leaves no room for lightheartedness.

To forge a cavalry strong enough to sweep the Xiongnu was a daunting task. Setting aside the sourcing of horses and troops—even if Chang'an provided them, would it be enough? Would the Xiongnu allow Qin Cheng time to train such an army? Qin Cheng was not naive enough to believe the Xiongnu were ignorant of Qiansang’s affairs, and this major training could not be conducted in secrecy. Once the Xiongnu learned of Qin Cheng’s efforts, it would be foolish to expect them not to disrupt it.

Moreover, though recent study of the "Tradition" had given Qin Cheng some understanding of cavalry training, mastery was still far off. In short, with his current resources, forging an invincible cavalry was as difficult as climbing to the heavens. Yet, Qin Cheng could not shirk the task. Firstly, without a powerful cavalry, victory in the coming wars with the Xiongnu was impossible. His rise after the battle with the Xiongnu Left Wise King was partly due to luck; had the Xiongnu not made tactical errors by plunging deep into Han territory intent on annihilating Li Guang’s forces, the Han would never have held out until reinforcements arrived. Next time, the Xiongnu would not repeat their mistakes, and Qin Cheng would have no advantage. Their cavalry would still dominate the field. Secondly, if in two or three years he had no elite cavalry under his command, then...