陈丞相世家

Chen the Chancellor, Chen Ping, was a native of Huhuai Township in Yangwu. In his youth his family was poor, but he loved learning. Though he possessed only thirty mu of land, he lived alone with his elder brother Bo. Bo spent his days farming the fields, allowing Ping to travel abroad for study. Chen Ping was tall and handsome. Someone once asked him: "How do you keep so well-fed when you're poor?" His sister-in-law grew resentful of his neglect of family affairs, saying: "He only eats coarse grain like the rest of us. With an uncle like this, I'd rather have none." When Bo heard of this, he drove his wife away and divorced her.

When Chen Ping grew old enough to marry, no wealthy family would give him a daughter, while he himself felt shame at taking a poor wife. After some time, there was a wealthy woman in Huhuai named Zhang Fu. His granddaughter had been married five times, and each time her husband died young, so no one dared take her. Chen Ping wanted her. In the town there was a funeral, and since Ping was poor, he offered his services, arriving early and leaving late to help. When Zhang Fu saw him at the funeral home, she gazed at his distinguished appearance, and Ping, for his part, made sure to leave after her. Fu followed Ping to his home, which turned out to be a poor lane house at the edge of the city, its door nothing more than a worn mat. Yet outside the door there were many carriage tracks from visitors of standing. Fu returned and said to her son Zhong: "I want to give my granddaughter to Chen Ping." Zhong replied: "Ping is poor and does nothing productive. The whole county laughs at what he does. Why would you give her to him?" Fu said: "Could there be a man as fine as Chen Ping who remains poor and base?" She finally gave him the girl. Because Ping was poor, she provided loans for the betrothal gifts and money for the wedding feast and wine. Fu instructed her granddaughter: "Do not be remiss in serving others simply because of his poverty. Serve your brother-in-law Bo as you would your father, and your sister-in-law as you would your mother." After marrying the Zhang family woman, Ping's circumstances grew richer, and his circle of acquaintances widened daily.

When Chen Ping grew old enough to marry, no wealthy family would give him a daughter, while he himself felt shame at taking a poor wife. After some time, there was a wealthy woman in Huhuai named Zhang Fu. His granddaughter had been married five times, and each time her husband died young, so no one dared take her. Chen Ping wanted her. In the town there was a funeral, and since Ping was poor, he offered his services, arriving early and leaving late to help. When Zhang Fu saw him at the funeral home, she gazed at his distinguished appearance, and Ping, for his part, made sure to leave after her. Fu followed Ping to his home, which turned out to be a poor lane house at the edge of the city, its door nothing more than a worn mat. Yet outside the door there were many carriage tracks from visitors of standing. Fu returned and said to her son Zhong: "I want to give my granddaughter to Chen Ping." Zhong replied: "Ping is poor and does nothing productive. The whole county laughs at what he does. Why would you give her to him?" Fu said: "Could there be a man as fine as Chen Ping who remains poor and base?" She finally gave him the girl. Because Ping was poor, she provided loans for the betrothal gifts and money for the wedding feast and wine. Fu instructed her granddaughter: "Do not be remiss in serving others simply because of his poverty. Serve your brother-in-law Bo as you would your father, and your sister-in-law as you would your mother." After marrying the Zhang family woman, Ping's circumstances grew richer, and his circle of acquaintances widened daily.

When Chen She rose up and made himself King of Chen, he sent Zhou Shi to pacify the Wei territories and install Wei JiuWei JiuWei Prince and MartyrHe inherited a doomed kingdom — chose to die by fire rather than surrender to an enemy who had promised him peace.View profile → as King of Wei. Wei JiuWei JiuWei Prince and MartyrHe inherited a doomed kingdom — chose to die by fire rather than surrender to an enemy who had promised him peace.View profile → then engaged the Qin forces in battle near Linji. Chen Ping had already bid farewell to his elder brother Bo and joined some young men to serve King Wei JiuWei JiuWei Prince and MartyrHe inherited a doomed kingdom — chose to die by fire rather than surrender to an enemy who had promised him peace.View profile → at Linji. The King made him Grand Coachman. When he remonstrated with the King but was not heeded, and someone slandered him to boot, Chen Ping fled.

Later, when Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → was expanding his territory to the river's edge, Chen Ping went to join him. He accompanied Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s forces in defeating Qin, and was granted the rank of Minister. When Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → turned east to attack Pengcheng, the King of Han returned to pacify the Three Qins and then marched east, at which point the King of Yin rebelled against Chu. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → then sent Chen Ping as Faithful Warrior Lord, leading the Wei JiuWei JiuWei Prince and MartyrHe inherited a doomed kingdom — chose to die by fire rather than surrender to an enemy who had promised him peace.View profile →'s retainers who had attached themselves to Chu, to attack and force the King of Yin to surrender. Upon their return, Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → appointed Chen Ping to the post of Commandant and granted him twenty yi of gold. Not long after, the King of Han conquered Yin. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → flew into a rage and threatened to execute the officers who had failed to hold Yin. Fearing execution, Chen Ping sealed up the gold and his seal, sent them back to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → by emissary, and slipped away alone with sword in hand.

Later, when Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → was expanding his territory to the river's edge, Chen Ping went to join him. He accompanied Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s forces in defeating Qin, and was granted the rank of Minister. When Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → turned east to attack Pengcheng, the King of Han returned to pacify the Three Qins and then marched east, at which point the King of Yin rebelled against Chu. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → then sent Chen Ping as Faithful Warrior Lord, leading the Wei JiuWei JiuWei Prince and MartyrHe inherited a doomed kingdom — chose to die by fire rather than surrender to an enemy who had promised him peace.View profile →'s retainers who had attached themselves to Chu, to attack and force the King of Yin to surrender. Upon their return, Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → appointed Chen Ping to the post of Commandant and granted him twenty yi of gold. Not long after, the King of Han conquered Yin. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → flew into a rage and threatened to execute the officers who had failed to hold Yin. Fearing execution, Chen Ping sealed up the gold and his seal, sent them back to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → by emissary, and slipped away alone with sword in hand.

Crossing the river, the boatman observed this handsome, solitary traveler and suspected him of being a deserter carrying gold and precious objects beneath his clothes. He stared at him, contemplating murder. Alarmed, Chen Ping stripped off his clothing and helped pole the boat bare-chested. When the boatman realized he carried nothing of value, he desisted. Chen Ping then made his way to Xiucheng and surrendered to the King of Han. Through Wei Wuzhi he requested an audience with the King, who summoned him in. At the time, the Ten Thousand Stone Lord Fen served as the King of Han's Chamberlain. He received Chen Ping's letter of introduction and brought him before the King. Seven men entered together, and the King offered them food. The King said: "Enough. Go to your lodgings." Chen Ping replied: "I have come on urgent business. What I have to say cannot wait until tomorrow." The King of Han then spoke with him and was delighted. He asked: "What office did you hold under Chu?" Chen Ping answered: "Commandant." That very day the King appointed him Commandant, making him his chariot companion and putting him in charge of the army. All the generals protested: "The King has only just acquired a deserter from Chu, and without knowing his worth, he rides beside him and makes him overseer of the army!" When the King of Han heard this, he favored Chen Ping all the more. He marched east to attack Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →. At Pengcheng, the Han forces were defeated by Chu. The King withdrew, gathered his scattered troops at Xingyang, and made Chen Ping Deputy General under the King of Han's vassal, the King of Zhao, stationed at Guangwu.

The Marquises of Jiang and Guan, among others, all slandered Chen Ping: "Although Chen Ping is a handsome man, he's merely a decorative hat jade—pretty on the outside, but who knows what lies within. We have heard that while at home he seduced his sister-in-law. He served Wei but could not remain, so he fled to Chu. He left Chu without success, and now has fled to Han. Today Your Majesty grants him high office and makes him overseer of the army. We have heard that he accepts bribes from generals—the more gold, the better the posting; the less, the worse the treatment. This man is a faithless troublemaker. We urge Your Majesty to examine him."

The Marquises of Jiang and Guan, among others, all slandered Chen Ping: "Although Chen Ping is a handsome man, he's merely a decorative hat jade—pretty on the outside, but who knows what lies within. We have heard that while at home he seduced his sister-in-law. He served Wei but could not remain, so he fled to Chu. He left Chu without success, and now has fled to Han. Today Your Majesty grants him high office and makes him overseer of the army. We have heard that he accepts bribes from generals—the more gold, the better the posting; the less, the worse the treatment. This man is a faithless troublemaker. We urge Your Majesty to examine him."

The King of Han grew suspicious. He summoned and rebuked Wei Wuzhi. Wuzhi said: "What I spoke of was the man's ability; what Your Majesty asks about is his conduct. Now if a man had the conduct of Weisheng or Xiao Ji but his actions did not affect the outcome of battle, of what use would he be to Your Majesty? While the realms of Chu and Han are locked in struggle, I recommended a man of extraordinary strategy—what matters is whether his plans truly benefit the state. Besides, what grounds are there for suspicion simply because he seduced his sister-in-law and took bribes?"

The King of Han grew suspicious. He summoned and rebuked Wei Wuzhi. Wuzhi said: "What I spoke of was the man's ability; what Your Majesty asks about is his conduct. Now if a man had the conduct of Weisheng or Xiao Ji but his actions did not affect the outcome of battle, of what use would he be to Your Majesty? While the realms of Chu and Han are locked in struggle, I recommended a man of extraordinary strategy—what matters is whether his plans truly benefit the state. Besides, what grounds are there for suspicion simply because he seduced his sister-in-law and took bribes?"

The King of Han grew suspicious. He summoned and rebuked Wei Wuzhi. Wuzhi said: "What I spoke of was the man's ability; what Your Majesty asks about is his conduct. Now if a man had the conduct of Weisheng or Xiao Ji but his actions did not affect the outcome of battle, of what use would he be to Your Majesty? While the realms of Chu and Han are locked in struggle, I recommended a man of extraordinary strategy—what matters is whether his plans truly benefit the state. Besides, what grounds are there for suspicion simply because he seduced his sister-in-law and took bribes?"

The King of Han summoned Chen Ping and rebuked him: "You served Wei without success, then served Chu and left, and now you travel with me. A trustworthy man would indeed have many doubts about you." Chen Ping replied: "I served King Wei, but he would not heed my counsel, so I left and attached myself to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → cannot trust others; those he favors are only members of the Xiang clan or his wife's brothers. Even extraordinary men find no employment. So I left Chu. I heard Your Majesty know how to employ men, so I came to serve you. I arrived here with nothing but my body—I could not accept bribes as capital. If my plans prove useful, Your Majesty should employ them; if they are useless, the gold is still here, please confiscate it and let me resign."

The King of Han summoned Chen Ping and rebuked him: "You served Wei without success, then served Chu and left, and now you travel with me. A trustworthy man would indeed have many doubts about you." Chen Ping replied: "I served King Wei, but he would not heed my counsel, so I left and attached myself to Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → cannot trust others; those he favors are only members of the Xiang clan or his wife's brothers. Even extraordinary men find no employment. So I left Chu. I heard Your Majesty know how to employ men, so I came to serve you. I arrived here with nothing but my body—I could not accept bribes as capital. If my plans prove useful, Your Majesty should employ them; if they are useless, the gold is still here, please confiscate it and let me resign."

The King of Han apologized, bestowed generous gifts upon him, and appointed him Marshal of the Guards with oversight of all the generals. The generals thereafter dared not speak further against him.

Later, Chu pressed its attack urgently, cutting off the Han supply route and surrounding the King of Han at Xingyang. After a long siege, the King grew desperate. He offered to cede Xingyang west of the city for peace, but Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → refused. The King of Han said to Chen Ping: "The realm is in chaos. When will it ever be settled?" Chen Ping replied: "Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → is respectful and loving, and many men of principle who value propriety flock to him. But when it comes to granting rewards of land and titles, he is tightfisted, which is why the able men do not remain loyal. Your Majesty, by contrast, is informal and discourteous, so men of principle do not come to you. However, Your Majesty gives freely of titles and land, which is why even shameless men hungry for gain rally to Han. If each could shed their weaknesses and adopt the other's strengths, the realm could be settled at a word. But Your Majesty's informality prevents principled men from serving you. Consider that in Chu there are those who could be turned—Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s iron-willed ministers like his Second Father, Zhongli Mo, Long Ju, and Zhou Yin—only a handful. If Your Majesty would spend several tens of thousands of jin of gold to spread dissension, sowing suspicion among his ministers, Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s nature is such that he is suspicious and credulous toward slander. He will surely execute his own men internally. Han can then strike while Chu is in chaos, and victory is certain."

Later, Chu pressed its attack urgently, cutting off the Han supply route and surrounding the King of Han at Xingyang. After a long siege, the King grew desperate. He offered to cede Xingyang west of the city for peace, but Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → refused. The King of Han said to Chen Ping: "The realm is in chaos. When will it ever be settled?" Chen Ping replied: "Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → is respectful and loving, and many men of principle who value propriety flock to him. But when it comes to granting rewards of land and titles, he is tightfisted, which is why the able men do not remain loyal. Your Majesty, by contrast, is informal and discourteous, so men of principle do not come to you. However, Your Majesty gives freely of titles and land, which is why even shameless men hungry for gain rally to Han. If each could shed their weaknesses and adopt the other's strengths, the realm could be settled at a word. But Your Majesty's informality prevents principled men from serving you. Consider that in Chu there are those who could be turned—Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s iron-willed ministers like his Second Father, Zhongli Mo, Long Ju, and Zhou Yin—only a handful. If Your Majesty would spend several tens of thousands of jin of gold to spread dissension, sowing suspicion among his ministers, Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →'s nature is such that he is suspicious and credulous toward slander. He will surely execute his own men internally. Han can then strike while Chu is in chaos, and victory is certain."

The King of Han agreed. He issued forty thousand jin of gold to Chen Ping and let him act freely, asking no questions about expenditures. Chen Ping used the gold extensively to spread disinformation within the Chu army, spreading rumors that generals like Zhongli Mo, who had achieved much for Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →, had nonetheless been denied territorial holdings and the title of king. The rumors claimed these generals intended to join Han, destroy the Xiang family, and divide the empire among themselves. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → grew suspicious of Zhongli Mo and the others.

Having thus planted doubt, Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → sent an emissary to Han. The King of Han prepared a lavish feast, but when the Chu envoy arrived, he feigned shock: "I thought you were sent by Fan ZengFan ZengXiang Yu's Chief StrategistThe old strategist who foresaw Liu Bang's danger from the very beginning — and died on the road after being driven away by Xiang Yu's suspicion.View profile →—turns out you're from Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →!" He then removed the feast and served the envoy meager, plain food. When the envoy returned and reported everything, Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → became deeply suspicious of Fan ZengFan ZengXiang Yu's Chief StrategistThe old strategist who foresaw Liu Bang's danger from the very beginning — and died on the road after being driven away by Xiang Yu's suspicion.View profile →. Fan ZengFan ZengXiang Yu's Chief StrategistThe old strategist who foresaw Liu Bang's danger from the very beginning — and died on the road after being driven away by Xiang Yu's suspicion.View profile →, learning of this suspicion, flew into a rage: "The realm is nearly won! The King must act for himself!" He requested leave to depart. Before he reached Pengcheng, the ulcer on his back burst and he died.

Chen Ping then smuggled two thousand women out through the east gate of Xingyang. The Chu forces rushed to attack them, and while they were distracted, Chen Ping helped the King of Han escape through the west gate. They slipped into Hangu Pass, gathered the scattered forces, and marched east again.

The following year, the Huayi Marquis, Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →, conquered Qi and declared himself King of Qi. He sent an emissary to inform the King of Han. The King of Han flew into a rage and cursed. Chen Ping nudged him under the table. The King understood, received the Qi emissary generously, and ultimately sent Zhang LiangZhang LiangThe Strategist Behind Two EmpiresAn aristocrat who attempted to assassinate the First Emperor with a hammer, then became an advisor serving two masters—and watched them destroy each other.View profile → to invest Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → as King of Qi. The King enfeoffed Chen Ping with Huhuai. Using his strategies, Han eventually destroyed Chu. Chen Ping served as Marshal of the Guards in the campaigns that pacified the Yan King Zang Tu.

In the sixth year of Han, someone submitted a petition accusing the King of Qi, Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →, of rebellion. The Supreme Emperor asked his generals. They all said: "Summon the army immediately and bury this wretch." The Emperor remained silent. He asked Chen Ping, who firmly declined to answer: "What do the generals say?" The Emperor told him everything. Chen Ping said: "Has anyone with knowledge confirmed the truth of this petition?" The Emperor replied: "No." Chen Ping asked: "Does Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → know of the accusation?" The Emperor said: "He does not." Chen Ping continued: "Your Majesty's elite troops—are they a match for Chu's?" The Emperor said: "No." Chen Ping asked: "Does Your Majesty have any generals capable of matching Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → in battle?" The Emperor said: "None." Chen Ping said: "If Your Majesty's forces are inferior to Chu's and your generals cannot match Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile →, yet you launch an attack, you are inviting defeat. I tremble for Your Majesty's peril." The Emperor asked: "What should be done?" Chen Ping replied: "In ancient times, the Son of Heaven traveled on inspection tours to meet the lords. To the south lies Yunmeng. If Your Majesty simply announce a tour of Yunmeng, summoning the lords to meet you at Chen. Chen lies on Qi' western border. When Han XinHan XinHere's the translation of "The General Who Won Three Empires" into English: **The General Who Conquered Three Empires** Alternatively, if you want a more literal translation: **The General Who Won Three Empires** Both are correct, but "conquered" might sound more natural in English depending on the context.From begging for meals at strangers' tables and enduring humiliation in the marketplace, to commanding a million troops—the greatest military genius of the early Han Dynasty, ultimately undone by his own emperor.View profile → hears that Your Majesty is traveling for pleasure, he will surely come to pay respects without suspicion. Once he arrives, Your Majesty can seize him—this requires only one strong man."

The Emperor then issued the tallies and formally enfeoffed Chen Ping, promising that his line would continue unbroken. Chen Ping declined, saying: "This was not my achievement." The Emperor said: "I employed your strategies and defeated the enemy—was that not achievement?" Chen Ping said: "Without Wei Wuzhi, how could I have been recommended?" The Emperor said: "You may truly be said to honor your roots." He then rewarded Wei Wuzhi as well.

The Emperor then issued the tallies and formally enfeoffed Chen Ping, promising that his line would continue unbroken. Chen Ping declined, saying: "This was not my achievement." The Emperor said: "I employed your strategies and defeated the enemy—was that not achievement?" Chen Ping said: "Without Wei Wuzhi, how could I have been recommended?" The Emperor said: "You may truly be said to honor your roots." He then rewarded Wei Wuzhi as well.

The following year, as Marshal of the Guards, Chen Ping accompanied the campaign against the rebel Han Wang Xin in Dai. The army advanced to Pingcheng, where they were surrounded by Xiongnu for seven days without food. The Supreme Emperor employed Chen Ping's secret strategy, which enabled the empress's younger sister to persuade the Chanyu, and the siege was lifted. Once the Emperor emerged, the details of his strategy were kept secret, and no one learned of it.

When the Emperor returned from defeating Bu's forces, he was ill from wounds. He traveled slowly toward Changan. The Yan King, Lu Wan, rebelled, and the Emperor sent Fan Kuai to lead the troops as Acting Chancellor. Once Fan Kuai had departed, someone spoke ill of him. The Emperor flew into a rage: "Fan Kuai sees I am ill and hopes for my death!" Acting on Chen Ping's counsel, he summoned the Marquis of Jiang, Zhou Bo, to receive his orders at his bedside: "Chen Ping, ride swiftly with a relay of horses to bring Zhou Bo to replace Fan Kuai. When Chen Ping arrives at the army, execute Fan Kuai immediately!"

The two men received their orders and rode posthaste, but before reaching the camp they deliberated: "Fan Kuai was an old companion of the Emperor. He has many achievements, and what is more, he is married to Lü Ying, the sister of Empress Lü. They are close relatives and honored. The Emperor, in his anger, wants him executed—but if we do it and he later regrets it, we will be in trouble. Better to take him prisoner and bring him back. The Emperor can execute him himself."

Chen Ping learned that the Emperor had died. Fearing the empress dowager and Lü Ying's resentment, he rode ahead to the capital. When he encountered an imperial messenger ordering him to garrison Xingyang with Guan Ying, he accepted the edict, then rode straight to the palace. There he wept bitterly before the coffin. The Empress Dowager was moved by his grief and said: "You have labored much. Go and rest." Chen Ping, fearing that slander would undo him, firmly requested assignment to the palace guard. The Empress Dowager made him Court Scholar, saying: "You shall instruct Prince Xiaohui." Thereafter Lü Ying's schemes could not be carried out.

When Fan Kuai arrived, he was pardoned and his title and lands restored. In the sixth year of Emperor Xiaohui's reign, the Chancellor Cao Shen died. The King of Anguo, Wang Ling, became Right Chancellor, and Chen Ping became Left Chancellor. Wang Ling was a native of Pei, originally a village strongman. When the Founder Emperor was still obscure, Wang Ling had treated him as an elder brother. Wang Ling was unrefined, given to outbursts, and blunt in speech.

When Fan Kuai arrived, he was pardoned and his title and lands restored. In the sixth year of Emperor Xiaohui's reign, the Chancellor Cao Shen died. The King of Anguo, Wang Ling, became Right Chancellor, and Chen Ping became Left Chancellor. Wang Ling was a native of Pei, originally a village strongman. When the Founder Emperor was still obscure, Wang Ling had treated him as an elder brother. Wang Ling was unrefined, given to outbursts, and blunt in speech.

When Gaozu rose from Pei and entered Xianyang, Ling had also gathered several thousand followers in Nanyang, but was unwilling to submit to the Duke of Pei. When the King of Han turned back to attack Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile →, Ling finally pledged his forces to Han. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → captured Ling's mother and held her in his camp. When Ling sent an envoy, Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → seated the mother facing east, as if she were a guest of honor—hoping to lure Ling back. The mother then privately saw off the envoy, weeping as she said: "Tell Ling on my behalf: serve the King of Han faithfully. He is an honorable man. Do not let an old woman's fate make you waver. I am sending you off with my death." She then fell on the sword and died. Xiang YuXiang YuHere's the translation of "The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World" into English: **The Warrior Who Almost Ruled the World**The most feared warrior in Chinese history — brilliant in battle, catastrophic in politics — whose stubborn nobility cost him an empire.View profile → flew into a rage and had Ling's mother boiled. Ling eventually followed the King of Han and helped pacify the realm. Because he was on good terms with Yong Chi—and Yong Chi was Gaozu's enemy—Ling had never truly intended to follow the emperor, and so he was enfeoffed late. He became Marquis of Anguo.

The Marquis of Anguo having become Right Chancellor, two years later Emperor Hui died. Empress Dowager Lü wanted to make the Lü clan kings. She asked Wang Ling, who replied: "Impossible." She asked Chen Ping, who answered: "Possible." The Empress Dowager was furious and ostensibly promoted Ling to Grand Tutor to the Emperor, but in truth did not employ him. Ling was indignant, feigned illness, and resigned. He shut himself indoors and refused all court attendance, dying seven years later.

Lü Xü often brought up Chen Ping's past—he had plotted against Fan Kuai for the emperor—and repeatedly slandered him: "Chen Ping as Chancellor does not govern affairs. He drinks fine wine daily and dallying with women." When Chen Ping heard of this, his behavior grew worse. The Empress Dowager learned of this and was secretly delighted. She confronted Lü Xü face to face: "As the saying goes, 'A son's wife cannot be relied upon.' Consider how you stand with me. Do not fear Lü Xü's slanders."