The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 378 The younger generation surpasses the older generation; the children are all married, and the elders are truly getting old.
The sixth day of the second month of the eighth year of Zhangwu.

On the command platform outside Luoyang, the nine-strand white banner fluttered in the north wind.

Liu Bei stood with his hand on his sword, with civil and military officials lined up on both sides behind him.

Below the stage, elite armored soldiers stood in formation like a forest, their spears and halberds gleaming coldly in the sunlight.

"Your Majesty, the five armies have set off as planned."

Li Yi, dressed in purple robes and a jade belt, presented the tiger tally.

“The Jingzhou army set off from Jiangling three days ago and should have already passed Xiakou by now.”

Liu Bei gazed southward, where the misty river seemed to echo with the sound of war drums, and sighed:

"General Huang is nearly seventy years old, yet he is still willing to be the vanguard. I am very pleased."

"Though Han Sheng is old, his arrows are still sharp."

Li Yi unfolded a map and explained it to Liu Bei:

"In this battle, the Jingzhou army mobilized 50,000 men."

"With Huo Jun as deputy, Fu Tong in charge of the navy, Yi Ji in charge of provisions, and Liao Li as military advisor."

"With the Prince of Lu as the military supervisor, he can effectively counterbalance the Eastern Wu navy."

Just then, a fast horse galloped in from the east gate, and the messenger dismounted.

"Report!!!"

"The 20,000-strong army from Qing and Xu has passed Xiapi, General Zang Ba reported this to the emperor."

"The ice on the Huai River has melted, and boats can now sail without hindrance!"

Liu Bei stroked his beard and smiled:
"Xuan Gao has been in Xu Yang for a long time and is familiar with the waterways."

"Chang Xi and Sun Guan are both generals who have fought in countless battles, so there is no need to worry about this road."

The Qingxu Army was led by General Zang Ba, who was in charge of the Eastern Garrison, and accompanied by his Taishan Sect brothers.

Just then, another rider came galloping from the north, his hooves kicking up dust that was several feet high.

"Hebei Military Report! General Zhang He has led 30,000 elite troops across the Yellow River."

"Xu Huang will lead the vanguard, Zhang Liao will cover the rear, and the fleet will stretch for twenty miles!"

Upon hearing this, the courtiers were all greatly encouraged.

Xun You stroked his beard. He stepped forward and praised:
"Zhang Junyi was skilled in military tactics and had already made a name for himself in Shangyong."

"Now that we have joined forces with Wen Yuan and Gong Ming, we are sure to achieve great things!"

At this time, Xun You had already fallen ill and his body was quite weak.

However, since the expedition against Wu was a major national event, he still attended the departure ceremony despite his illness.

Liu Bei, standing to the side, advised:
"Gongda is seriously ill; he should go back and rest in a while!"

"...Ahem."

Xun You coughed twice and shook his head.

"Let this old minister take one last look at the brave men of my great Han Dynasty."

He is 62 years old this year, which is several years longer than his historical self.

This was mainly due to the fact that he did not suffer Cao Cao's wrath, and at the same time, the medical system of the Han Dynasty was relatively advanced.

Among the attending physicians were renowned masters such as Zhang Zhongjing and Hua Tuo.

However, the heavy workload of government affairs eventually took its toll on the health of this veteran official who had devoted himself to the Han Dynasty for many years.

Xun You knew his days were numbered, but he still insisted on attending this grand event despite his illness.

"...Mr. Gongda, it's windy outside."

Li Yi walked over and helped up his old friend and colleague who had worked with him for many years.

As early as last year, Xun You had already rarely participated in court affairs.

Therefore, Li Yi has been focusing on cultivating Pang Tong over the past year.

His intention was to promote Pang Tong to replace Xun You as his deputy after Xun You completely retired.

"...It's alright, it's alright."

Xun You simply repeated this sentence over and over again.

As the sun began to set in the west, the last messenger brought news from the Henan army:

"General Gao Shun's 20,000-strong army has arrived in Qiao County, with Generals Guan Xing and Zhang Bao as the vanguard, marching a hundred li a day!"

"We should be able to reach Huainan soon."

Upon hearing this, Liu Bei laughed loudly and slammed his hand on the table, saying:

"My sons are now capable of standing on their own!"

Suddenly, he composed himself and asked Li Yi:
"Ziyu, how is Chen Yuanlong doing?"

Li Yi bowed respectfully and replied solemnly:
"The Huainan army of 80,000 men has assembled in Shouchun. Gan Ning, Zhou Tai and other veteran generals are all eager to fight."

"Once all the armies have joined together, we can launch a major southward offensive."

He paused, then said, "The Prince of Liang is the military supervisor. Although Chen Yuanlong is in overall command of the front lines, the deployment of the five armies still follows His Majesty's plans."

Liu Bei gazed at the crisscrossing waterways on the map and suddenly sighed:
"This campaign mobilized 400,000 laborers, 200,000 soldiers, and tens of thousands of boats and carts."

"What if we fail..."

What Liu Bei was worried about was not how much trouble Eastern Wu and Cao Wei could cause after the defeat.

Instead, his lifelong reputation and almost invincible record vanished.

Right now, Liu Bei is hoping for a smooth landing.

I hope that when future generations evaluate the Han Dynasty, they will place me on par with my ancestors Liu Bang and Liu Xiu.

"Don't worry, Your Majesty."

Li Yi's voice was as steady as iron: "The warships built by Ma Jun last year have been deployed to various armies, and their provisions are sufficient for half a year."

"Furthermore, Wu ruler Sun Quan has recently favored Lü Yi and persecuted loyal officials, causing the people of Jiangdong to become disunited."

"This is a golden opportunity, we must not miss it!"

As dusk deepened, torches were lit one after another around the command platform, gradually elongating Liu Bei's shadow.

He drew his sword, pointed it to the heavens, and swore an oath:

"I vow to unify China and restore the lands of my Han people!"

"May all of you strive together to achieve this great undertaking!"

"Long live! Long live! Long live!"

The roar was so powerful it caused the Luo River to flow backward.

Meanwhile, at the Jiangling Wharf, a thousand miles away.

Huang Zhong, his white beard flying, stood atop the warship.

The river wind billowed his scarlet battle robe, and the large banner with the character "Han" behind him fluttered in the wind.

"General, the wind has changed!" Fu Tong shouted from below.

Huang Zhong retrieved the treasured bow and shot an arrow that severed the cable.

"Set sail! Destination: Chaisang!"

Five hundred warships raised their sails simultaneously, their masts forming a forest that blotted out the sky.

Standing on the deck of the boat, Prince Liu Yong of Lu gazed at the endless lines of laborers on both banks and couldn't help but sigh:

"My father once said, 'The people's hearts can be won over,' and he was right!"

On the Huai River,

Zhang He stood at the bow of the boat, watching the flock of geese flying south.

Xu Huang approached and asked:
"What is Junyi looking at?"

"Observe the timing of the weather."

Zhang He tapped the hilt of his sword lightly with his fingers. "The spring floods are approaching, the currents are quickening, it's the perfect time to go downstream."

"We will definitely reach Shouchun within three days."

Meanwhile, in the Huainan army camp,
Chen Dengzheng is playing chess with Gan Ning.

Gan Ning didn't like playing chess, but for some reason Chen Deng especially liked to drag him into playing chess.

I won't force him to learn everything.

Since learning the skill, Gan Ning has never beaten Chen Deng.

Suddenly, a personal guard came to report:

"Reporting to the general, scouts have spotted Wu troops outside Hefei!"

Chen Deng moved his pieces swiftly, and said calmly:

"Don't bother."

"Order the three armies to continue training, and we will make further plans once all five routes have converged."

After saying this, he turned to Gan Ning and smiled:

"Xingba, you're going to lose this game again."

Gan Ning pushed the chessboard and laughed loudly:

"Losing the game is fine, as long as the general lets me be the vanguard and take that blue-eyed brat's head!"

Outside Shouchun City, laborers, like ants, were transporting countless grains and fodder into the newly built granary.

At the same time, King Liu Li of Liang had also arrived in Shouchun with more than a thousand attendants.

Outside the city, laborers swarmed like ants, and grain carts moved like dragons.

From the Huai River wharf to the military barracks and granaries, the flow of people was endless.

Liu Li reined in his horse and looked into the distance. Seeing the grain and fodder being transported in an orderly manner, he couldn't help but sigh to Chen Tai, the chief clerk beside him:

"Chen Yuanlong is a pillar of the nation, known for his strict military discipline and efficient transportation."

"No wonder the Emperor relied on him so much, and the Prime Minister also confided in him."

Upon hearing this, Cavalry Commandant Zhuge Ke chuckled lightly:
"Your Highness is overly complimentary."

"Even if Chen Yuanlong is talented and resourceful, isn't he still subject to the control of us, the military supervisors?"

Liu Li frowned and immediately said in a deep voice:
“Be careful what you say! Chen Zhengnan has guarded Huainan for more than 20 years and has made outstanding contributions.”

"How dare we, the younger generation, treat them with disrespect? When you meet the generals of Huainan later, you must be courteous and not act arrogantly!"

Seeing the King of Liang's solemn expression, everyone lowered their guard and agreed.

Before long, dust billowed ahead as a troop of cavalry galloped towards them.

The leader, dressed in a brocade robe and with a refined appearance, was none other than General Chen Deng, who was leading the southern expedition.

He dismounted, cupped his hands in greeting, and said loudly:
"Your Highness, the Prince of Liang, you have come a long way and have had a long journey. I am sorry that I failed to greet you properly!"

Liu Li also dismounted to return the greeting, humbly saying:

"Chen Zhengnan served the country on the border with great merit and hard work."

"I am already ashamed to have disturbed military affairs, how dare I accept the general's personal welcome?"

Seeing Liu Li's respectful words, Chen Deng felt somewhat relieved and smiled:
"Your Highness is young and wise. His Majesty sent you to supervise the army, which must be because he values ​​your talent."

"This humble general has prepared a small banquet in the camp to welcome Your Highness and wash away the dust of your journey."

Liu Li nodded with a smile:

"In that case, I'll have to trouble you, General."

Inside the Huainan military tent, the generals sat at separate tables.

Because Chen Dengsu loved raw fish, each person had a plate of fresh fish slices placed in front of them, accompanied by ginger and garlic sauce.

Seeing this, Liu Li did not hesitate, picked up his chopsticks and tasted it, then exclaimed in praise:

"Mmm! Absolutely delicious!"

"This fish sashimi is expertly prepared, with a smooth and tender texture; it is truly a delicacy!"

Chen Deng was surprised:

"Does Your Highness also enjoy this flavor?"

Liu Li smiled and said:

"When I was in Liang, I asked a Jiangdong man who came here to make a living for advice on how to cook fish sashimi."

"Sea bass should be sliced ​​thinly, while carp should be sliced ​​thickly."

"Anchovies, on the other hand, need to be chilled with ice to remove their fishy smell and preserve their freshness."

Chen Deng was overjoyed upon hearing this, and immediately became interested, slamming his hand on the table and saying:
"I never imagined Your Highness was such an expert on sashimi!"

"I have lived in Huainan for many years, and this is the only place I have ever liked. Today I have met a kindred spirit, so let's drink a big cup of wine!"

The two raised their glasses and drank together, and the atmosphere at the table gradually warmed up.

When the generals of Huainan saw that the King of Liang was not putting on airs and was chatting happily with Chen Deng, their wariness lessened.

After several rounds of drinks, Liu Li seemingly casually brought up the matter of attacking Wu, saying:

"The Wu people will surely resist stubbornly by relying on the natural barrier of the Yangtze River during this southern expedition. I wonder what good strategies Chen Zheng has for the south?"

Chen Deng's eyes flickered slightly, and he stroked his beard and smiled:
"Since Your Highness is the military supervisor, you must have a plan in mind. Why not offer your guidance?"

Liu Li shook his head and said seriously:

"I am young and ignorant of etiquette, how dare I presume to discuss military matters in front of you seasoned generals?"

Chen Deng, however, said:

"Why is Your Highness so modest?"

"His Majesty has entrusted you with the position of military supervisor, which must be because he values ​​your insight."

"Your Highness, please speak freely."

Liu Li knew that Chen Deng was testing him, so he pretended to hesitate before saying:

"Since that's the case, I'll dare to speak presumptuously—"

"Wu's navy is elite. Although our army is large, it would be a bad idea to cross the river rashly."

"It would be better to send spies to find out the strength and weakness of the other side first, and then look for an opportunity to fight a decisive battle."

A glint of light flashed in Chen Deng's eyes, and he laughed:

"Your Highness's words are quite similar to Prime Minister Li's military strategy."

Liu Li quickly waved his hand:

"I was merely making things up on the spot; how could I possibly compare to my uncle?"

"The duty of the military supervisor is to oversee military discipline and monitor military affairs."

"As for how to deploy troops, that is entirely up to Chen Zhengnan to decide."

Upon hearing this, all the generals in Huainan showed expressions of approval.

They had initially thought the young supervisor would interfere with their military operations, but to their surprise, he was quite sensible.

Not only did they not interfere in military affairs, but they also respected Chen Deng's authority in every way.

Of course, when the imperial court established the military supervisors, it clearly stipulated that the military supervisors should not interfere with military affairs.

But despite this, the reality is that the military supervisors wielded considerable power.

Because he only obeys the highest leader of the court, if you do something wrong or do something poorly...

If he goes to the emperor or the prime minister to impeach you, you will have no way to defend yourself.

Chen Deng also smiled and said:
"Your Highness is kind and reasonable; you are truly a blessing to the nation!"

Liu Li raised his glass in a toast and said:

"The great cause of conquering Wu still depends on you generals."

"I, the King, would like to first offer you all a toast!"

The guests raised their glasses, and the atmosphere at the banquet became increasingly lively.

After the banquet, Liu Li returned to the camp, and Chen Tai whispered:
"Your Highness handled the situation appropriately today, and the generals of Huainan no longer have any intention of resisting."

Liu Li smiled slightly:
"Chen Yuanlong is a renowned general of our time. If I were to act arrogantly upon my arrival, it would only create more discord."

"Now that he approves of me, things will naturally be much easier for him in the future."

Zhuge Ke laughed from the side:
"Your Highness is very skilled in managing people; I underestimated you before."

Liu Li shook his head:

"It's not about controlling people, but about respecting them."

"Founding heroes like Chen Yuanlong should be treated with sincerity."

As soon as he finished speaking, Liu Li went into the back room.

He suddenly covered his mouth, veins bulging on his forehead.

He staggered a few steps, grabbed a pillar for support, his throat bobbed a few times, and finally couldn't help but vomit.

"Your Highness!"

Zhuge Ke rushed forward to help, but the sour, rotten smell made him frown.

"What...what happened to you?"

Chen Tai quickly handed over a handkerchief and said in a low voice:
"Your Highness does not usually eat raw food. If you force yourself to eat it today, it will inevitably upset your stomach."

Zhuge Ke's eyes widened in surprise.
"If that's the case, why were we ordered to catch fresh fish every day when we were in the Liang Kingdom?"

"Just now at the banquet, I was with Chen Zhengnan..."

He stopped abruptly halfway through his sentence, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes.

"Could it be...could it be that His Highness did this intentionally, specifically for..."

Liu Li wiped his lips with his sleeve, a bitter smile forcing a smile onto his pale face:
“Since Yuanxun already understands, why bother to say it out loud?”

He straightened up, and his stomach cramped again.

“We are young and inexperienced, yet we hold the position of military supervisor and are above all the generals in Huainan.”

"If we don't do this, how can we dispel their wariness?"

The night wind swept through the corridor, and the iron gates under the eaves clanged.

Zhuge Ke stood there stunned for a long time, then suddenly bowed deeply to the ground:
"Your subject is... dull-witted."

"I was unaware of Your Highness's good intentions."

Chen Tai gently patted Liu Li's back and softly comforted him:

"Would Your Highness like to go to the Huai River to enjoy the breeze and clear your mind?"

"The newly sprouted willows along the riverbank are most suitable for soothing the spleen and stomach."

Liu Li waved his hand to stop him, and said seriously:
The Book of Changes says: "A son of a wealthy family would not sit under a leaning roof."

"With a large army gathered and enemy forces intermingling, how can we rashly advance?"

He straightened his clothes, though his fingertips were still trembling slightly.

"You two have worked hard, so go and rest. I'll go for a walk in the backyard by myself."

After passing through two corridors, Liu Li finally collapsed to his knees in front of the stone steps.

The moonlight, like water, illuminated the cold sweat covering his forehead.

Every piece of slippery fish sashimi at the banquet was now churning in my stomach.

He recalled that three days earlier, when he had left Liang at full speed, Li Yi had sent him a secret letter.

“The generals of Huainan have been stationed on the frontier for a long time, and I fear they may have become arrogant and unruly.”

"Your Highness should feign weakness to win favor and then plan for future benefits."

"In all things, harmony should be valued above all else, and the greater good should be considered."

"Uncle..."

Liu Li wiped the residue from the corner of his mouth with a wry smile.

He stood up, intending to take a walk in the yard to get some fresh air.

As dusk settled, a melody from a zither flowed like a clear stream through the crevices of the rocks beneath the crabapple tree in the courtyard.

Liu Li looked in the direction of the sound and saw a young girl in a blue and white dress sitting in the hexagonal pavilion, her slender fingers gently plucking and strumming the zither.

The winter snow had not yet melted, and the moonlight and lamplight intertwined on the jewels and ornaments in her hair, making her look like a fairy in a painting.

"Clouds shroud Mount Jiuyi, and apricot blossoms are shrouded in misty rain."

The girl murmured softly, the last notes fading into the evening breeze.

Liu Li stopped in his tracks without realizing it.

The music was initially clear and melodious, but gradually turned into a deep and melancholic tone, as if endless unspoken thoughts were hidden beneath the seven strings.

Only when the last lingering sound dissipated did he realize with a start that he had been completely absorbed in the music.

"This piece..."

The girl suddenly turned her head, her eyes, like autumn water, reflecting the light of the snow.

"What does the young master think?"

Liu Li hurriedly straightened his clothes and bowed deeply to the ground:
"I apologize for my abruptness and for disturbing your enjoyment, Miss."

The girl was not annoyed; she simply picked up the teapot from the small red clay stove beside the zither and poured a cup:
"Since you have stopped to listen, you must be a kindred spirit."

"But it doesn't matter."

Liu Lizhi stood up, and the moonlight revealed his clear and bright features.

"This melody begins like a secluded orchid in a valley, then becomes like the low moan of a trapped beast."

“In particular, the ‘Shang’ note is often vibratoed, which shows that the person in the piece has something difficult to say.”

She paused, then added, "This helplessness seems... like a compromise with fate." The teacup trembled slightly in the girl's hand.

She carefully examined the young man before her, who wore a jade crown and a brocade robe, and suddenly smiled:
"I never expected to meet a kindred spirit today, right in my own courtyard."

Having said that, she gracefully bowed.

"Chen Yao, the eldest daughter of the Chen family, greets His Highness Prince Liang."

Liu Li's expression turned solemn, and he returned the greeting respectfully:

"It was Miss Chen."

"I apologize for disturbing you so rudely."

He was about to leave before he finished speaking.

"Your Highness, please wait."

Chen Yao called out to him, her eyes sparkling with a hint of playfulness.

"Since we are all alone now, perhaps... you may call me by my maiden name?"

A night breeze swept by, and a crabapple petal fell onto the stone table.

Liu Li hesitated for a moment, then said softly:

"Yao... Miss."

"Son."

Chen Yao smiled and gestured for him to sit on the stone bench opposite her.

As the tea smoke curled upwards, Chen Yao stroked the body of the zither and sighed softly:
"The helplessness you just heard is exactly what I feel in my heart."

She gazed at the brightly lit command tent in the distance.

“From a young age, I wanted to make my father proud, but he only had military and national affairs in his eyes.”

"Being a woman...in the end, I can't be of much help."

Liu Li gazed at the slight sorrow between her brows and asked:

"So that's why there was such resentment in the girl's music?"

"Young Master is intelligent."

Chen Yao smiled wryly, "I often admire the purity of the line 'A fair maiden is sought after by a gentleman' in the Book of Songs."

"But people like mine..."

Her fingertips unconsciously traced the strings, producing clear and melodious harmonics.

"My father wanted to marry me off to a high-ranking family in the capital."

"Far from my hometown of Huainan, I will spend my life with someone I have never met before."

A snowflake drifted into the pavilion and landed on the zither fret.

Liu Li suddenly recalled the profound advice Zhuge Jun had given him before he left Liang:
"Your Highness, when you go to Huainan, you must keep an eye on the eldest daughter of the Chen family."

At the time, it was just a routine act of kindness, but now it resonates like thunder in my ears.

"Does Miss Yao have... someone she admires?"

As soon as the words left his mouth, Liu Li regretted his abruptness.

Chen Yao was not embarrassed or angry, but only shook her head and sighed softly:

"A young woman confined to her chambers has only ever met men who are her father's or brothers' advisors."

"On the contrary..."

She looked up and stared directly at Liu Li. "Young Master, as a prince, you must already have a suitable match?"

“I was enfeoffed to the Liang Kingdom at a young age to study government affairs, so I have no time to think about these things.”

Liu Li chuckled self-deprecatingly, then noticed a corner of a poem peeking out from Chen Yao's sleeve.

"This is……?"

Chen Yao hurriedly covered herself with her sleeve, but it was too late.

Liu Li, with his sharp eyes, noticed the words "wishing to win one heart," which were lines from Zhuo Wenjun's poem "Ode to White Hair."

The two were speechless for a moment.

"Miss Yao, there's no need to be too sad."

Liu Li quickly changed the subject, gently stroking the snow marks on the stone table.

“When I was nine years old, I was enfeoffed as the King of Liang. On the day I left the capital, I held onto the hem of my mother’s skirt and cried until I died.”

Chen Yao suddenly looked up, somewhat speechless:
"How could Your Majesty bear to do this to someone so young..."

"Ha, this is a matter for the imperial family, how can one speak of having the heart to do such a thing?"

A bitter smile appeared on Liu Li's lips.

“At that time, my uncle carried me onto the carriage and said, ‘Does the King of Liang know why he must take up his fief?’ Of course, I didn’t understand.”

He said this was so that his elder brother, the Crown Prince, could sit securely on the throne—

“When feudal lords reside in the capital for a long time, it is inevitable that they will form factions.”

On that day, Liu Li, who was only nine years old, already knew why the feudal lords were to be enfeoffed.

In order to consolidate the crown prince's position, the princes could not be allowed to stay in the capital to build up their connections.

A sudden gust of night wind blew, making the copper bells on the corner of the pavilion tinkle.

Chen Yao unconsciously clenched her sleeves:
"I thought my life was as adrift as a duckweed, but I never imagined Your Highness would also..."

“I am better off than you, young lady; at least my fiefdom is quite prosperous.”

Liu Li looked north and sighed:

"But every New Year's Eve banquet, I see my elder brother, the Crown Prince, sitting to the right of my father, while my seat is far away at the palace gate..."

He suddenly stopped speaking, shook his head, and laughed:

"Hey, why are you saying all this?"

A withered leaf twirled and landed on the strings of the instrument.

Chen Yao asked softly:

"How has Your Highness... managed to get through all these years?"

"read."

A light suddenly appeared in Liu Li's eyes.

“My uncle and aunt sent books to me every month, from Zuo Zhuan to Shang Jun Shu.”

"I only understood later—"

"The so-called 'checks and balances' are the source of most of the world's suffering."

Chen Yao pondered for a while, then asked again:
"So Your Highness thinks... effort is worthwhile?"

"what!"

Liu Li suddenly burst out laughing, startling the birds perched under the eaves.

"I learned swordsmanship at the age of six, mastered the Analects at the age of ten, and could discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the canal transport in the Yangtze and Huai River regions at the age of fifteen."

"But so what?"

He waved his hand and pointed towards the commander's tent.

"General Chen has managed Huainan for over twenty years, yet now he has to be controlled by a mere brat like me?"

The moonlight was obscured by the clouds, and the pavilion suddenly became dark.

Chen Yao saw something flash across the young man's eyes, like the stubbornness of a trapped beast.

Sometimes I feel that hard work is the least valuable thing.

Liu Li stroked the jade pendant at his waist, "Ten years of hard study are not as good as being born into a good family."

"It's like..."

He suddenly reached out and caught a snowflake. “When the snow falls on the plum blossoms, it becomes elegant; when it falls into the mud, it becomes filthy.”

Chen Yao's heart skipped a beat.

She never imagined that this prince, who was chatting and laughing at the banquet, possessed such sharp and clear-headed insight.

Just as he was about to respond, he suddenly heard the sound of a night patrol clapper coming from afar.

It's past midnight.

Liu Li stood up and brushed the snow off his clothes. "Miss Yao, please remember this—"

He paused for a moment, then softened his voice.

"Even birds raised in cages can grow more beautiful feathers."

"Oh, right."

After taking two steps, Liu Li suddenly turned around.

"If I have the chance, I would like to hear you play the zither again."

Under the moonlight, Chen Yao's earlobes turned slightly red, and she whispered:

"At this time the day after tomorrow, I will still be practicing the zither here."

After saying that, she picked up the guqin and left quickly, her blue and white skirt leaving shallow trails on the snow.

Liu Li stood alone in the pavilion when he suddenly noticed a plain handkerchief lying under the stone table.

Upon closer inspection, a small "瑶" character is embroidered on the corner, and the subtle fragrance of orchids still lingers.

……

Luoyang, the capital city.

Although Liu Bei and several others went to the battlefield, Crown Prince Liu Shan did not go.

This is not because Liu Bei refused to give Liu Shan a chance to gain experience.

If Liu Shan proposed to inspect the counties in Henan, Liu Bei would agree to let him go.

But Liu Bei could not allow him to go to the front lines to fight.

Because he knew how dangerous war was and how high the mortality rate was.

The crown prince, also known as the "foundation of the state," is absolutely not to be touched lightly.

Because what if the old emperor suddenly dies one day, and the crown prince is not in the capital?

Then the country would immediately face a huge catastrophe, and even in the best-case scenario, there would be a political upheaval.

A classic example is the death of Shen Sheng in the State of Jin.

His father, Duke Xian of Jin, wanted to depose him, and the first step he took was to send him out to command the army and garrison Quwo.

At that time, a minister was worried about Shen Sheng's fate.

If you want to cultivate a crown prince, you should keep him by your side to familiarize him with government affairs and provide him with careful guidance.

Sending the heir out into the country means that if a major upheaval occurs in the capital, such as the sudden death of the old emperor, there will be no time to respond.

It's not surprising that they were afraid of being overthrown by other princes and powerful figures.

Not to mention that the battlefield is a place of life and death, extremely dangerous.

If someone is killed in battle, the country will fall into turmoil.

In fact, this is an era dominated by powerful and wealthy families.

The relationship between the emperor and the crown prince has always been delicate.

The emperor wanted to cultivate the power of the crown prince, otherwise he would have difficulty suppressing the various evildoers under his command after ascending the throne and would become a puppet.

However, if the crown prince's power is too strong, it is easy for him to lose control, and he may stage a coup and ascend to the throne ahead of schedule.

Sending the crown prince out to command troops and gain experience will easily allow a considerable military force to form around him.

The old emperor dared not risk the consequences of filial piety.

Therefore, in ancient times, emperors often established a system where the crown prince and princes held equal importance.

The crown prince presided over government affairs in the central government, while princes commanded troops in the field.

In fact, this could also protect the Liu family's empire to some extent.

Even if, hypothetically, bloodshed and fratricide were to occur in the future...

The country ultimately fell into the hands of the Liu family.

However, if generals of different surnames were given too much military power, it would be a huge threat to the royal family.

Of course, this was true for Liu Shan at that time.

He stayed in the capital because he had more important things to do.

The city of Luoyang was decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations.

Red silk was laid out on Zhuque Avenue, and imperial guards stood in rows, while the people eagerly awaited their arrival.

Today is the wedding day of Crown Prince Liu Shan, and the Crown Princess is none other than Zhang Xingcai, the daughter of Grand Marshal Zhang Fei.

This was also Liu Bei paving the way for Liu Shan, helping him to unite with the veteran faction.

At the same time, he chose to marry the crown prince before the army set off on its expedition.

It's also to bring good luck and auspiciousness.

Inside the main hall of Weiyang Palace, everything was resplendent in gold and jade, and officials stood solemnly.

The musicians played "Guanju," the chime bells were clear and melodious, and the sheng and xiao (traditional Chinese wind instruments) resonated in harmony.

Liu Bei, dressed in a black imperial robe and wearing a twelve-tassel crown, sat upright on the throne.

Empress Yuan Ying, adorned in a phoenix coronet and embroidered robes, exuded elegance and grace.

The wedding ceremony was personally presided over by Prime Minister Lee Ik.

He stood in the hall, dressed in purple robes and a jade belt, and loudly proclaimed:

"The auspicious hour has arrived. Please, Crown Prince and Crown Princess, enter the hall—"

The palace gates were wide open, and Liu Shan, dressed in a crimson python robe, appeared.

Wearing a traveler's hat and with a solemn expression, he entered slowly.

Beside her, Zhang Xingcai wore a phoenix crown and a beaded curtain, her face draped in a bright red wedding dress embroidered with golden phoenixes.

His gait was dignified, and even though half of his face was covered, his imposing presence was still evident.

The assembled officials were full of praise.

Guan Yu stroked his beard and smiled, while Zhang Fei's tiger-like eyes were filled with tears.

Zhao Yun, Xu Chu, Chen Qun, Wang Lang, Hua Xin and other important civil and military officials were all present to attend the ceremony.

Li Yi, holding the imperial edict, proclaimed loudly:

"The Emperor decreed—"

"Crown Prince Liu Shan is benevolent, filial, and intelligent. He is now betrothed to Zhang Xingcai, the daughter of Grand Marshal Zhang Fei, as his Crown Princess."

"May you live a harmonious and loving life together, and be forever united in heart."

"Appreciate this."

Liu Shan and Zhang Xingcai kowtowed in unison and said:

"Your Majesty, I thank you for your grace!"

After the ceremony, the two stood up.

Turning to Li Yi, he bowed again and said:

"I thank you, Prime Minister, for your kindness."

Li Yi smiled and helped the two up, saying gently:

"The Crown Prince is kind and benevolent, and the Crown Princess is virtuous and gentle; they are a match made in heaven."

"May you two be of one mind and one heart, and together uphold the weight of the ancestral temple."

Upon seeing this, Liu Bei was overjoyed and rose to raise his cup:

"I am deeply pleased with the Crown Prince's wedding today!"

"Let us all drink this cup together, to celebrate the long and prosperous reign of our Great Han Dynasty!"

The ministers echoed in unison:

Congratulations on the Crown Prince's wedding!

"Long live the Emperor! Long live the Crown Prince!"

At the banquet, glasses clinked and toasts were exchanged.

Zhang Fei, in a hearty manner, raised his cup and drank deeply, then laughed at Guan Yu:
"Second Brother, today my daughter is marrying into the Crown Prince's Palace."

"Our brothers' descendants have finally all settled down and started families!"

Guan Yu stroked his beard and smiled, teasingly saying:

"Third brother, don't be so smug. Although the Crown Princess is your daughter..."

"But once she enters the royal family, she becomes the Empress."

"You can't scold them as casually as you used to."

Zhang Fei laughed heartily:

"Don't worry, Second Brother. Although I, Old Zhang, am rough, I still know how to be polite!"

Zhao Yun raised his cup and stepped forward. This man, who had fought countless battles, now had tears in his eyes.

He hesitated for a moment before saying to Liu Shan:

"Your Highness, I have watched you grow up since I was a child."

"Seeing you settle down and start a family today fills me with great joy."

"May Your Highness and the Crown Princess live in harmony and together create a prosperous era."

Liu Shan respectfully returned the greeting:

"I will never forget Uncle Zhao's kindness in teaching me."

Seeing his ministers gathered in joy, Liu Bei was filled with emotion and whispered to Li Yi beside him:
"Ziyu, I was somewhat dazed when I saw Adou get married today."

"It was as if he were still that child in my arms just yesterday."

Li Yi smiled slightly:
"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince has grown into an adult."

"In the future, he will surely inherit the great lineage and continue the Han dynasty."

Liu Bei nodded, his gaze deep and thoughtful:
"I hope so."

After saying this, he drank the wine in his cup.

Suddenly, he turned his head and smiled at Li Yi beside him:

"Ziyu, there's no time like the present—"

"I remember that Yun Chang was betrothed to you long ago. When will Zhi'er and that girl Yinping get married?"

Upon hearing this, Li Yi paused slightly in his cup-holding hand, then chuckled.

"Why is Your Majesty more anxious than I am? Marriages for our children should be considered at length."

Liu Bei clapped his hands and laughed, his eyes full of mischief.

"I meant well!"

"Zhi'er is calm and composed, while Yinping is spirited and heroic; they are a match made in heaven."

"Today is the Crown Prince's wedding day, a time of great joy. Why not take advantage of this auspicious occasion and add another happy event?"

Li Yi shook his head and smiled wryly, about to decline.

But Liu Bei's eyes were piercing, clearly indicating that he could not refuse.

He could only bow and say:

"Since Your Majesty says so, I will go back and discuss it with my wife to set a new auspicious date."

Liu Bei stroked his beard and nodded with satisfaction, a hint of emotion flashing in his eyes:
"...It's better to get married sooner rather than later."

"Watching these children grow up, I was struck by how quickly time flies."

“Once they settle down and start their own families, it’s time for us old folks to give way to the younger generation.”

Upon hearing this, Li Yi's expression turned slightly solemn, and he said in a low voice:
"Your Majesty is in the prime of your life, why do you say such a thing?"

"The foundation of the Han Dynasty still needs Your Majesty to steer it."

Liu Bei waved his hand, his gaze drifting towards the outside of the hall, as if looking into the distance:
"...Ziyu, there's no need to comfort me."

"Back when the uprising began in Zhuojun, I, Yunchang, and Yide were still young and spirited, but now..."

He paused, then, without saying anything more, raised his glass and drank it all in one gulp.

Li Yi remained silent, but also raised his cup to accompany him.

Soon, the wedding ceremony was completed.

As night deepened, the music and rituals gradually ceased.

Liu Shan led Zhang Xingcai into the Eastern Palace. The palace doors closed, and red candles burned brightly.

Xingcai said softly:
"Your Highness, from this day forward, I will be your wife."

Liu Shan smiled gently:
"Xingcai, we've known each other since childhood."

"Today we are finally united as husband and wife, it is truly the will of Heaven."

Xingcai raised her eyes, her gaze resolute:
"I will certainly assist Your Highness and live up to the expectations of my father and the prime minister."

Liu Shan grasped her hand and solemnly said:
"Okay, we...we'll work together."

Xingcai smiled, pursing her lips:
"Your Highness should really work hard, lest others surpass you."

……

(End of this chapter)