A mishap in Đại Việt’s preparations arose when a rebellion broke out in the Đà Giang region. Trịnh Giác Mật, a leader of a minority group, led an uprising against the Trần dynasty. Recognizing the challenge, the retired King Nhân Tông appointed Prince Chiêu Văn, who was knowledgeable in the culture and language of the ethnic groups and a skilled military leader, to handle the situation.
Aware of the prince’s assignment, Trịnh Giác Mật devised a plan to assassinate him. He sent a letter inviting the prince to their headquarters, stating that he did not wish to oppose the dynasty and would surrender if the prince came alone. Many generals suspected a trap, but the prince reassured them, saying, “If I die, the court will simply appoint another general to defeat them!” He bravely proceeded to the rebel camp with only a few servants.
As he calmly approached, passing through lines of armed men meant to intimidate him, the prince displayed no fear. Upon meeting Trịnh Giác Mật, he greeted him in their native language, remarking, “My servants’ left ears were hot on the way here, and now their right ears are hot.” This cryptic statement startled the rebel leaders. During the meeting, Trịnh Giác Mật invited the prince to a banquet, where the prince amazed everyone by drinking wine through his nose and eating in the traditional manner of their people. Impressed, Trịnh Giác Mật declared, “Prince, you are our brother!” To which the prince warmly replied, “We have always been brothers!”
The prince then offered gifts to the local leaders, further solidifying trust. Thanks to his cultural understanding and diplomacy, he peacefully resolved the rebellion without any bloodshed and earned the respect of the ethnic groups. Recognizing his unique ability to bridge the gap between the court and the minority groups in the northwest and northeast, the king appointed him to oversee the region. This decision proved invaluable, as these ethnic groups played crucial roles and secured key victories during the Mongol invasions.
See also: Tran dynasty: the dynasty that defeated the Mongols 3 times
