Rise of a New Duke

In the first year of Duke X’s reign, significant events unfolded, shaping the political landscape of the time. In the spring, in the first month of the king’s calendar, Duke X ascended to power. He immediately faced challenges and opportunities that would test his leadership and diplomatic skills.

Spring Campaign Against Pengcheng

Duke X’s tenure began with military campaigns. Chancellor Zhong Sun Mie joined forces with military leaders from Jin, led by Luan Shu, as well as allies from Song, Wei, Cao, Ju, Zhu, Teng, and Xue. Together, they laid siege to Pengcheng, a strategic location controlled by Song. The joint forces aimed to punish Yu Shi, a rebel causing unrest. Although Pengcheng was not initially part of Song’s territory, the campaign sought to reclaim it to stabilize the region. The siege was successful, and Pengcheng surrendered to Jin. As a result, the five great lords of Song, who were present in Pengcheng, were taken back to Jin and placed in Huqiu.

Summer Offensive Against Zheng

In the summer, Jin’s General Han Jue led an offensive against the state of Zheng. Chancellor Zhong Sun Mie, alongside generals from Qi, Cao, Zhu, and Qi, gathered their forces at Zeng to prepare for the assault. The coalition army penetrated Zheng’s city walls and defeated their forces at the Wei River. This victory strengthened the eastern alliance, and the troops regrouped at Zeng, awaiting further orders.

Following their success in Zheng, the Jin army, bolstered by the eastern allied forces, launched an invasion into the Chu territories of Jiao Yi and Chen. The coalition’s strength was further supported by the presence of Duke X and the Marquis of Wei, who camped at Qi to provide strategic assistance.

Autumn and Winter Diplomacy

In the autumn, the Chu state, seeking to counter the Jin-led coalition, sent Prince Xin with an army to aid Zheng and invade the Song territories of Lu and Liu. In response, Zheng’s leader Ziran launched a counterattack on Song, capturing the area of Quanqu.

In September, King You of Zhou passed away, marking a significant moment in the region’s political dynamics. Meanwhile, the Duke of Zhu visited to pay his respects and strengthen diplomatic relations, adhering to established protocols.

Winter saw continued diplomatic efforts as the Marquis of Wei sent Gongsun Piao to visit Duke X, reinforcing their alliance. Similarly, Jin’s Duke sent Xun Ying as an emissary to maintain the relationship with Duke X.

Diplomatic Protocols and Alliances

The visits by the leaders of Wei and Jin were not mere formalities but essential elements of maintaining the intricate web of alliances that characterized the period. When a new leader ascended in any state, it was customary for smaller states to pay homage and for larger states to send envoys. These visits were critical for reaffirming bonds, establishing trust, and discussing strategies to address mutual concerns and fill gaps in governance.

These events from the first year of Duke X’s rule illustrate the complex interplay of warfare and diplomacy in ancient China. As he navigated the challenges of leadership, Duke X demonstrated both military acumen and diplomatic finesse, securing his position and stabilizing his state amidst a turbulent era.