Cao Song was momentarily stunned as he listened to Tao Qian's words. He wondered if his ears were deceiving him. Tao Qian's words clearly indicated that he wanted to find a successor for Xuzhou, and from his perspective, his son Cao Cao seemed like a good candidate. He hoped that Cao Cao would govern Xuzhou well and treat the people kindly, while also taking care of his two sons.
Cao Song felt like his eldest son was truly destined for greatness, much like Emperor Guangwu of Han. Even before reaching Xuzhou, someone was already offering him territory, and not just any territory, but one of the most important grain-producing regions in the land. All that was asked in return was that he take care of Tao Qian's sons and ensure the Tao family line continued. This wasn't just a windfall; it was like a mountain of gold had fallen into their lap.
With control over most of Yanzhou, Yingchuan in Yuzhou, Nanyang, and now possibly Xuzhou, Cao Song saw that if these territories were consolidated, the Cao family was on the path to immense power.
When a noble family reaches its pinnacle, nine times out of ten, they set their sights on the ultimate position. Previously, the Cao family might not have had that qualification, but when Cao Cao gained control of a province, Cao Song started having aspirations. Now, with Tao Qian subtly hinting at handing over Xuzhou, Cao Song's thoughts shifted from aspirations to concrete ambitions.
"I wouldn't dare assume such a position," Cao Song responded cautiously. Although he sensed Tao Qian's sincerity, he knew that rushing into such an agreement could backfire. Even if Tao Qian was sincere, acting too hastily could destabilize the region, causing resistance from the local power holders. Such a scenario would be laughable if it occurred.
"Rest assured, Ju Gao. I, Tao Gongzu, am deeply aware of my declining years and diminishing energy. I can no longer bear the responsibilities of a provincial governor. Even if you don't help recommend a worthy successor, I fear I won't be able to continue for long," Tao Qian said, coughing twice, a faint flush appearing on his face.
"Please don't worry, Gongzu. When the time comes, I will certainly join you in recommending a wise and capable successor to ensure the safety of Xuzhou and the peace of the Tao family," Cao Song replied, not immediately agreeing to take over. He knew that taking things slowly would allow for greater benefits, even though the current offer was already very generous.
Hearing Cao Song's promise, Tao Qian felt more at ease and sighed. "Cao Bao, bring my two sons here to meet Ju Gao."
Soon, Tao Qian's two sons were brought over by Cao Bao. They bowed to Cao Song, one of them boisterous, the other shy and timid. "Nephews greet Uncle Cao."
Tao Qian waved his hand, signaling for Cao Bao to take his sons away. With a bitter smile, he turned to Cao Song and said, "Ju Gao, you must find this laughable. My two sons are not fit for leadership. Otherwise, I wouldn't need to go to such lengths. Even now, in my old age, I must find a path for them. Ju Gao, for the sake of our acquaintance, please help them in the future. Don't let my sons be cast out into the streets."
"That would never happen!" Cao Song declared righteously. "For the sake of that 'Uncle' they called me, as long as I, Cao Ju Gao, live, your sons will never suffer. Furthermore, my eldest son is a kind and filial man. When my time comes, I will surely instruct him to treat your sons as his own brothers!"
Cao Song had made up his mind. He even made a vow, for this was about securing the Cao family's legacy. If acquiring Xuzhou meant ensuring the Cao family's rise to power, Cao Song believed it was worth the promise.
"Thank you so much, Ju Gao. I am deeply grateful," Tao Qian said, stepping back and bowing deeply to Cao Song. As a father, this was the most he could do for his sons. Given his status, Tao Qian normally wouldn't need to bow so deeply to anyone, but for the sake of his sons, he did so.
Cao Song was startled. "Gongzu, please rise! You mustn't do this!"
Cao Song hurriedly stood up and helped Tao Qian to his feet. Although they had both been kneeling and drinking together, this deep bow from Tao Qian left Cao Song deeply shocked. Any doubts he might have had about Tao Qian's sincerity were now dispelled. Clearly, Tao Qian was willing to go to great lengths for his sons.
"The compassion of parents is truly touching," Cao Song said, grasping Tao Qian's arms and helping him up. "Gongzu, I, Cao Ju Gao, swear that if my family does indeed take over Xuzhou, I will treat your sons as my own. Your descendants will be like the Cao family's own. As long as the Cao family has food, the Tao family will not go hungry!"
Cao Song's words were simple, but they were exactly what Tao Qian needed to hear. Tao Qian wanted nothing more than Cao Song's promise. Only with that vow could Tao Qian feel secure in handing over his greatest asset.
"Ju Gao, you're too kind…" Tao Qian wiped a tear from the corner of his eye. After years of struggle, Tao Qian realized that everything he had done was for his descendants. Upon seeing his sons, who only knew how to indulge in food and play, Tao Qian gave up any ambition for conquest. Instead, he focused on finding a reliable protector for them.
"Ah, we do everything for our descendants. I understand that all too well at my age," Cao Song sighed. "Our life's work is all for the sake of our children. When we see our descendants stray from the path, it breaks our hearts, but we still have to plan for them. Until you've become a parent, you don't understand how hard it is."
Tao Qian nodded, deeply moved. "Ju Gao, let's drink away our sorrows together."
With the assurance that his sons would be taken care of, Tao Qian drank freely with Cao Song. For years, his declining health had forced him to give up his favorite indulgence—wine. But now that he had secured his sons' future, he could drink without worry. Even if he passed away, he knew someone would take care of his sons.
Cao Song, on the other hand, was overjoyed that Xuzhou was practically in his grasp. The future prosperity of the Cao family seemed assured, and the thought of his descendants enjoying endless wealth and honor made him eager to share his happiness.
Thus, the two old men, both concerned for their descendants, drank until they were thoroughly drunk and didn't wake up until the next morning.
"Ju Gao, safe travels. I await your return," Tao Qian said, bowing as he stood at the city gate, seeing Cao Song off.
"Hahaha, Gongzu, this is farewell for now. I will return, and if I cannot, my eldest son will come in my place. You can rest assured," Cao Song laughed as he spoke, unaware that his words would prove prophetic.
"When that day comes, we'll share another drink. Cao Bao, escort Ju Gao on his journey," Tao Qian said, instructing his general, Cao Bao.
"Understood!" Cao Bao led his officers and over a thousand soldiers to escort Cao Song. After traveling thirty miles, Cao Bao left his subordinate Zhang Kai with five hundred soldiers to continue the escort, then slowly withdrew.
"Thank you for the escort, General Cao!" Cao Song said, bowing to Cao Bao from atop his horse.
"Zhang Kai, make sure you protect Lord Cao well!" Cao Bao shouted his instructions.
"From here on, we rely on you, General," Cao Song said to Zhang Kai with a smile.
"Please guide me in the future, Lord Cao," Zhang Kai replied with a bow.