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

Chapter 423 A New Generation Surpasses the Old, Prime Minister Zhuge Takes Over

In the sixteenth year of Zhangwu, in the second month, spring was in full bloom.

Winter in Luoyang has not completely receded, and the snow in the corners of the palace walls has not yet melted.

But a few red plum trees in the courtyard have already bloomed, bringing a touch of spring to this ancient capital that has experienced many vicissitudes.

With Liu Li's support, Liu Bei walked slowly along the bluestone path in the palace garden.

He was over sixty years old, and years of fighting and hard work had etched deep wrinkles on his face.

A cold last winter kept him bedridden for months.

Today, I was in a slightly better mood, so I went out to enjoy the spring scenery with my beloved son.

"Father, please look, that red plum tree is in full bloom."

Young Liu Li pointed to an old plum tree not far away, his tone filled with joy.

"The imperial physician said that Father Emperor's health has improved, just like the return of spring to the earth, which is an auspicious sign."

Liu Bei smiled slightly and patted his son's hand:
"I have been ill for some time now, and Chancellor Chen has passed away."

"The affairs of the court are numerous and complicated, and it is thanks to the hard work of Prime Minister Li and the officials that we have been able to manage them."

"Seeing this garden full of spring colors today has eased much of the gloom in my heart."

"...Father is blessed with great fortune, he will surely recover soon."

Liu Li answered respectfully.

The father and son walked slowly along the path, with the eunuchs following at a distance.

Upon arriving at Hualin Garden, one sees pavilions and towers gleaming in the early spring sunshine.

However, some of the beams and pillars are already mottled, and the paint has also peeled off.

Liu Bei stopped, looked around, and sighed softly:
"Although Luoyang has been restored as the capital, many palaces have been damaged due to years of war."

"I remember when we were in Xiapi, although it was a remote and isolated place, the palaces were still well-maintained."

"Now that the world is unified, the palaces in the capital are not as grand as they used to be, which is a loss of the emperor's dignity."

Upon hearing this, a flash of understanding crossed Liu Li's eyes, and he said softly:
"What is Father's intention?"

"I intend to allocate three million coins from the treasury to rebuild the palace, so as to demonstrate the majesty of the Han Dynasty."

Liu Bei had a far-sighted vision: "Since the Yellow Turban Rebellion, the world has been in turmoil for decades."

"Although I have restored the Han dynasty, the hearts of the people are not yet secure."

“The palace is magnificent, and it can also reassure the people and show the world that there is peace.”

Liu Li remained silent for a moment, then finally nodded in agreement:

"...Father Emperor is wise and the palace is magnificent, truly demonstrating the power of our great Han Dynasty."

So, the morning court session began the following day.

Liu Bei then informed his ministers of his intention to build a palace.

Most court officials echoed this sentiment, calling it a display of national power.

Only Li Yi remained silent, his brows furrowed.

Liu Bei noticed the unusual expression on his face and asked:
"...Ziyu is eager to try, does he perhaps have some insights?"

Li Yi stepped forward, bowed respectfully, and said in a clear voice:
"I humbly believe that the proposal to build palaces is unwise."

“In the past, Yu the Great wanted to save the people from floods and fires, so his palaces were humble and his clothing and food were simple.”

"In order to expand the territory of Yu'er, Goujian also restrained himself and practiced frugality to enrich the country."

"Emperors Wen and Jing of the Han Dynasty, in order to promote the achievements of their ancestors, stopped building the platform that cost 100 gold pieces and wore clothes made of silk."

Huo Qubing, a general of average talent, still said, "How can I have a home when the Xiongnu have not been destroyed?"

"Those who are wise in their long-term planning will overlook immediate matters, and those who are focused on external affairs will simplify internal matters."

The court was silent. Li Yi continued:

"The area in front of the Jian Shi Hall is now large enough to accommodate all the officials who come to pay their respects."

"Behind Chonghua Hall, there are sufficient residences for palace officials."

"Hualin and Tianyuan are sufficient for banquets and outings."

"It is imperative to stop repairing the gate towers and to mend the city walls."

"The rest of the labor can wait for a bountiful harvest."

"The most urgent tasks are to promote agriculture and sericulture, and to strengthen military preparedness."

"When the people are wealthy and the army is strong, the barbarians will naturally submit."

Liu Bei's expression darkened slightly, and after a long silence he finally spoke:
"...Li Xiang's words are not without reason."

"However, the renovation of palaces was not entirely for pleasure."

“Now that people from all directions have come to pay tribute, they see that our palaces are humble and lowly, and they fear that they will look down on our great Han.”

Li Yi bowed again and said solemnly:

"Your Majesty, the majesty of the palace lies not in its carved beams and painted rafters, but in the widespread implementation of virtuous policies."

"In the past, Yao and Shun did not cut down their thatched huts, yet the people submitted to them."

"Jie and Zhou, with their jade palaces and jeweled chambers, died and their kingdoms perished."

"I fear that large-scale construction projects will only waste the people's resources and damage Your Majesty's virtue."

Among all the civil and military officials, only Li Yi strongly advised Liu Bei against building large palaces.

The reason why everyone was afraid to cause trouble was because Prime Minister Li was too stubborn.

Logically speaking, given the current flourishing state of the Han Dynasty...

Allocating two million coins to build palaces to demonstrate national power is perfectly acceptable.

That amount of money was nothing more than a drop in the ocean for Qi Han.

If even this small personal hobby of the emperor is not allowed, then it would be too inhumane.

Liu Bei remained silent and waved his hand to signal the court to adjourn.

That night, the eunuch Wang Shun was serving Liu Bei medicine when he noticed the emperor's displeasure and whispered:
"Your Majesty seemed troubled by Prime Minister Li's words during the day?"

Liu Bei rubbed his temples and sighed softly:
“Li Xiangzhong is honest and upright, and what he said makes sense.”

"However, I am getting old, and it is not unreasonable for me to want to repair the palace a little."

Wang Shun said cautiously:

"Li Xiang is indeed loyal and upright, but he is perhaps too stubborn."

"Your Majesty is the Son of Heaven; it is only right and proper for you to repair the palace."

"Besides, the national treasury is now full, so what is a mere two million coins worth mentioning?"

"Li Xiang's direct remonstrance in court was somewhat disrespectful."

Liu Bei glanced at Wang Shun, his gaze sharp as lightning:

Do you intend to sow discord between the ruler and his ministers?

Wang Shun hurriedly knelt down:

"This servant wouldn't dare! This servant is only acting out of indignation on behalf of His Majesty."

Liu Bei was silent for a moment, then slowly said:

"I have known Prime Minister Li since we were both humble beginnings."

"When I was defeated and fled to Tan County, Li Yi risked his life to follow me. I have a brotherly bond with him, which no one else can sway."

"How dare you speak ill of such a loyal minister?"

Wang Shun kowtowed repeatedly:

"This servant is ignorant, Your Majesty, please forgive me."

The next day, Liu Bei summoned Li Yi to the palace to discuss matters.

The two strolled through Hualin Garden, and Liu Bei pointed to the scenery and said:
"Spring is approaching, and all things are reviving. My heart is also filled with excitement."

Li Yi respectfully said:
"Your Majesty has just recovered from your illness and should not overexert yourself."

Liu Bei stopped and looked directly at Li Yi:
"I have considered your advice yesterday very carefully."

"Do you know why I wish to build palaces?"

Li Yi answered without hesitation:
"Your Majesty, I am foolish and ignorant, please enlighten me."

"I am not doing this for pleasure."

Liu Bei gazed at the palace walls and thought, "I am getting old, and my days are numbered."

"The Crown Prince is kind-hearted, but lacks experience."

"I wish to leave him a stable empire, including a palace worthy of the might of the Han Dynasty."

"Thus, people from all directions came to pay tribute, and dared not underestimate them."

Li Yi bowed deeply:
"Your Majesty's plan for the Crown Prince is something I wholeheartedly agree with."

"However, I believe that the most precious thing to leave to the Crown Prince is not the magnificence of the palace."

"It is the people's support, the national treasury's abundance, and the soldiers' willingness to fight."

"When Qin Shi Huang built the Epang Palace, it stretched for three hundred miles, but it perished after only two generations. Why was that?"

"He has lost the hearts of the people."

Liu Bei remained silent for a long time, then sighed softly:

"Your words are very true. I was almost misled by slander."

Li Yi said:
"Your Majesty is too modest. My words yesterday were too harsh and inappropriate."

Liu Bei waved his hand:

Honest advice is hard to hear, and good medicine tastes bitter.

"If I cannot even tolerate honest advice, how can I be a ruler?"

He then smiled and said, "I have decided to stop the proposal to build palaces and use the funds for river works and military equipment."

Li Yi prostrated himself on the ground:

"Your Majesty, Holy Might!"

Liu Bei nodded, then turned to the eunuchs, including Wang Shun, who were accompanying him, and said:
"Listen up, all of you. Prime Minister Li is a pillar of the nation, and I respect him greatly."

"Anyone who speaks ill of Prime Minister Li in the future will not be spared!"

The eunuchs, trembling with fear, agreed.

The proposal to build the palace was thus abandoned.

However, it was clear to everyone that Liu Bei was still somewhat displeased.

Besides a bit of personal motive, Liu Bei also wanted to take this opportunity to bring good fortune when he built the palace.

In the end, he simply felt a bit "afraid" of Li Yi and had no choice but to accept his advice.

Since building palaces was not feasible, Liu Bei took advantage of the vitality brought by the New Year.

At this time of the morning court session, another decision was made.

"Since I fell seriously ill last winter, I have deeply felt the impermanence of life and death."

Although Liu Bei's voice was not as loud as it used to be, it still carried the majesty of an emperor.

"With the warmer weather this spring, my illness has eased somewhat; it is truly a blessing from heaven."

"Therefore, a special edict was issued to grant a general amnesty to the whole country, except for those who committed the ten heinous crimes."

"All are pardoned, and we will start anew with the people."

The imperial court was filled with praise.

In this peaceful atmosphere, Chen Qun, the Minister of Justice, stepped forward with his tablet and presented a memorial to the throne.

"Your Majesty," Chen Qun bowed and said, "I have submitted a memorial entitled 'On the Restoration of Corporal Punishment'."

"Now a general amnesty is granted, and benevolence and virtue are widely bestowed."

"However, when I think about matters of criminal law, there are still some things that have not been fully addressed."

Liu Bei gestured for the eunuch to take the memorial and slowly unfold it.

Chen Qun continued his statement:

“Corporal punishment in ancient times was established by sages.”

"It is not to harm the people, but to alleviate their suffering."

"Now that the Han law has abolished corporal punishment, the number of people executed each year has reached 10,000."

"If corporal punishment is reinstated, then death shall be substituted with punishments such as amputation, nose amputation, and tattooing."

"This would save three thousand lives each year; this is a benevolent policy."

These words immediately caused an uproar in the imperial court.

The senior officials looked at each other and whispered among themselves.

Liu Bei pondered for a moment, then glanced at his ministers:
"What do you all think of Chen Tingwei's proposal?"

After a moment of silence,

Li Yi stepped forward steadily and bowed deeply:
"...I believe this is unacceptable."

Li Yi's voice was clear and firm:
“Corporal punishment is cruel and has not been used for hundreds of years.”

“If it resumes, I fear that before a good reputation can be established, a bad reputation will be established.”

"Now that Your Majesty has just issued a general amnesty, the whole world is grateful for your benevolence."

"If corporal punishment is suddenly reinstated, what will the people do?"

"How will Your Majesty conduct yourself?"

Chen Qun argued:
"Does Prime Minister Li not know that using corporal punishment instead of death is actually a way to save lives?"

Li Yi answered calmly:

"There are many ways to save lives, why resort to such a shocking method?"

"I believe that the death penalty should be reduced to twice the original term of imprisonment, in accordance with the original criminal law."

"Thus, there is the grace of exchanging life for death within, and no horrifying sounds of mutilation and dismemberment outside."

These words drew nods of agreement from many ministers in the court.

Yang Yi, the Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, then stepped forward and echoed:

"...What Prime Minister Li said is absolutely right."

"When Emperor Wen abolished corporal punishment, the whole world praised his benevolence."

"If we resume this now, we fear we will lose the hearts of the people."

Grand Minister of Agriculture Mi Zhu also said:
“If corporal punishment is reinstated, many people will be maimed.”

"Not only did they lose their ability to work, but the court also gained a reputation for tyranny."

Liu Bei watched the argument, seemingly lost in thought.

After the court officials quieted down, he suddenly asked Li Yi:

"...There is something I do not understand."

“At the beginning of the founding of the nation, you repeatedly submitted memorials advocating for strict laws and severe punishments.”

"Now that the country is finally at peace, you have repeatedly suggested abolishing cruel punishments."

Why is there such a contradiction between the beginning and the end?

Li Yi bowed again and calmly responded:
"...Your Majesty is wise."

“In the past, the world was in great chaos, rites and music collapsed, and the people did not know how to prohibit things.”

"If we do not establish authority through severe punishments, how can we stop violence and prohibit wrongdoing?"

"This is the meaning of using harsh measures in chaotic times."

He paused briefly, glanced around at the assembled officials, and continued:

"Now that the country is at peace, the people yearn for tranquility."

“At this time, it is appropriate to implement benevolent policies so that the people can rest and recuperate.”

"Therefore, the way to govern a country is to adapt to the times and circumstances."

Confucius once said: "To temper severity with leniency, and to temper leniency with severity, is the way to achieve harmony in governance." This is what he meant.

Upon hearing this, a slight smile appeared on Liu Bei's pale face.

He turned to the Crown Prince Liu Shan, who was overseeing the government, and said:

"Has the Crown Prince understood?"

The young Liu Shan replied respectfully:

"Your subject will heed your advice."

Liu Bei said earnestly:

"Li Xiang governed the country with a deep understanding of the art of flexibility."

“In times of chaos, harsh measures are used; in times of peace, benevolent policies are implemented. This is a wise and insightful view.”

“You should remember that those in power must assess the situation and not be bound by a single law or policy.”

Liu Shan bowed and accepted the order:

"Your subject will certainly keep in mind your father's teachings and earnestly learn from Prime Minister Li's way of governing the country."

Li Yi quickly declined:

"...Your subject dares not accept such praise."

"Your Majesty is wise and the Crown Prince is benevolent and filial; this is a blessing for the world."

Liu Bei nodded in satisfaction and then issued an edict:
"I am considering the idea of ​​corporal punishment, and what Minister Li said is very much in line with my thoughts."

"Corporal punishment is cruel and must never be repeated."

"According to Li Xiang's report, for all those who could be sentenced to death lightly, their term of imprisonment would be doubled."

"The Court of Justice is ordered to revise the criminal law, striving for a balance between leniency and severity, and to be appropriate to the times."

After the imperial edict was issued, all the officials bowed in submission.

Although Chen Qun did not achieve his goal completely, he was convinced by the thoroughness of Li Yi's proposal.

With the discussion of corporal punishment over, Liu Bei moved on to the next matter.

"My lords," Liu Bei's voice echoed in the hall.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Chancellor Chen."

"However, a country cannot be without a prime minister for a single day, and a cabinet cannot be without a chief minister for a long time."

"Today's court assembly will discuss the selection of the chief minister."

As soon as he finished speaking, a great deal of discussion broke out in the imperial court.

Censor-in-Chief Zhou Fang was the first to step forward:

"Your Majesty, I believe that although Prime Minister Li has retired and gone into seclusion..."

"However, his prestige was already well-established, and his talent was outstanding."

"At this critical juncture when the nation needs capable people, we should invite Prime Minister Li to return to service."

This statement immediately garnered support from many court officials.

Bu Zhi then reported:

“…What Imperial Censor Zhou said is absolutely right.”

"In the past, Prime Minister Li presided over the government, reformed the internal administration, and defended against powerful enemies, which led to the prosperous era we enjoy today."

"If Prime Minister Li were to take charge of the cabinet again, it would be a blessing for the nation."

Among the officials below, many were former students and officials of Li Yi.

At this moment, they all offered their advice, earnestly requesting Li Yi to return to power.

However, Li Yi, who had been standing quietly at the front of the train, slowly stepped forward and bowed deeply:
"...This old minister thanks you all for your kindness."

"Now that I have retired, I should rest easy and enjoy my old age."

"Moreover, since ancient times, wise men have retired and never returned, which shows that the court is full of talented people."

"This position of Prime Minister is one I dare not accept."

Liu Bei leaned forward slightly:

"Since Ziyu is unwilling to return to public service, is there anyone who can recommend him?"

Li Yi calmly responded:

Before his death, Chancellor Chen had a private conversation with his senior ministers and recommended four people:

"Pang Tong (Pang Shiyuan), Liu Ye (Liu Ziyang), Xu Shu (Xu Yuanzhi), and Zhuge Liang (Zhuge Kongming)."

"These four men are all pillars of the nation."

As soon as he finished speaking, a great deal of discussion broke out in the imperial court.

The Grand Master of the Palace stepped forward and said:
"Among the officials and the public, Pang Shiyuan is currently the most popular."

"During his tenure in Xuzhou, he achieved remarkable results in fighting corruption and won the hearts of the people in the Qingxu area."

Dong Yun replied:

"Liu Ziyang is also the best choice."

"He served as the head of the Ministry of Revenue for many years and was well-versed in finance."

"The current abundance of the national treasury is largely due to their efforts."

Liu Bei listened attentively to the debate among his ministers, his gaze deep and thoughtful.

After the discussion subsided, he suddenly asked:
"How is the war in Guanzhong going lately?"

This question seems abrupt.

But the astute ministers immediately understood the emperor's intentions—

Zhuge Liang is currently serving as the Governor of Yongliang, guarding Guanzhong.

Liu Yan immediately understood and reported back:
"Zhuge Liang repeatedly defeated the Wei army in Guanzhong."

"He has made outstanding contributions to safeguarding the border."

"I believe it is advisable to summon him back to the capital and entrust him with the duties of prime minister."

This proposal immediately caused a stir in the imperial court.

Guanglu Xun Deng Zhi immediately echoed:

Zhuge Kongming was clearly the only suitable candidate.

"He once studied government affairs under Prime Minister Li and learned his true skills."

"After undergoing extensive training, he became proficient in both literary and martial arts."

However, not everyone agrees with this choice.

The remonstrating official then spoke frankly:

"Although Zhuge Liang was talented, he was still relatively inexperienced compared to Li Xiang and Chen Xiang."

"The position of prime minister is a matter of national importance; it cannot be entrusted lightly."

The Commandant of the Capital Region also said:

"Pang Shiyuan and Liu Ziyang both entered officialdom in the early days of the founding of the People's Republic of China and made outstanding contributions."

"Although Zhuge Liang was talented, he should have been promoted step by step."

The debate reignited in the imperial court.

Liu Bei listened quietly, his gaze finally settling on Li Yi, who had remained silent throughout:

"What does Ziyu think?"

All eyes were focused on this first meritorious official of Lingyan Pavilion.

Li Yi stepped forward slowly and said in a loud voice:

"This old minister believes that we should give Kongming a chance."

Upon hearing this, the entire room fell silent.

Li Yi continued:
“When the old minister was teaching Kongming in the past, he knew that Kongming was no ordinary person.”

"Over the years, he has proven his talent both in local areas and in the military."

"Although young, he is full of vigor and has the potential to be a pioneer."

He paused slightly and looked around at the assembled officials:

"Besides, His Majesty is in charge of everything." "And we old ministers are here to assist him."

Even if there are any mistakes, it will not be a big problem.

Upon hearing this, Liu Bei was overjoyed:
"Ziyu's words are exactly what I was thinking."

"In that case..."

"His Majesty,"

Li Yi suddenly interrupted, "This old minister has something to say."

"Pang Tong and Liu Ye can be appointed as assistant ministers, serving as left and right prime ministers."

"Xu Shu and Taishi Ci still jointly commanded the Ministry of War."

"This way, Zhuge Liang can realize his ambitions while ensuring the stability of the court."

With the successive deaths of Lu Su and Xun You.

The positions of the left and right prime ministers in the cabinet have always been vacant.

This vacancy exists to allow for a buffer period during the transfer of power.

At the same time, it was also to further help Chen Deng consolidate his power.

Now that Chen Deng has passed away, the powerful positions in the cabinet have become vacant.

This comprehensive plan immediately won over even the ministers who had initially opposed it.

Many ministers expressed their opinions:

"If this arrangement is made, I have no objection."

Seeing that his ministers no longer objected, Liu Bei issued an edict:
"He immediately summoned Zhuge Liang, the governor of Yong and Liang provinces, back to the capital, appointed him as the prime minister of the cabinet, and put him in charge of all government affairs."

"Pang Tong and Liu Ye served as the second assistant ministers, acting as the left and right prime ministers, and jointly participated in important matters."

After the court session ended, Liu Bei kept Li Yi behind in the rear hall.

The spring breeze wafted through the window lattices, stirring the curtains inside the palace.

"Ziyu, did you consider the whole picture before recommending Kongming today, despite the opposition?"

Liu Bei asked.

Li Yi smiled:

"Kongming's talent far surpasses that of this old minister."

"He is just inexperienced and needs someone to support him."

"With Pang Tong and Liu Ye as advisors and Xu Shu in command of the army, the court can be assured of peace."

Liu Bei nodded in agreement, then suddenly added:

"Does Ziyu truly no longer wish to wield power in the court?"

Li Yi smiled and shook his head:

"This old minister is getting on in years and should follow the example of Marquis Liu and retire after achieving his goals."

"Moreover, for the sake of the country and its people, we should cultivate new talents."

"So that the great Han dynasty will have virtuous and talented people in every generation."

The implication is that as long as Zhuge Liang does a good job.

Li Yi will also hand over military power to him.

When the time comes, he will truly leave without a trace, concealing his merits and fame.

The reason for not immediately handing over military power is to ensure a smooth transfer of authority.

After all, in the court, only Li Yi is currently able to keep the officials in check.

At the same time, Li Yi also needed to assess Zhuge Liang.

Li Yi will only hand over the position of Grand Marshal and General to Zhuge Liang when Zhuge Liang is truly and fully capable of fulfilling the duties of Prime Minister.

That is, military power was handed over to him.

……

Inside the Governor's Office in Chang'an.

Zhuge Liang was discussing strategies for attacking Wei with Jiang Wei, Li Yan, and others.

A meticulously drawn map was laid out on the table, with the marching route marked on it in dense detail.

"If the imperial court grants permission, our army can advance out of the pass in three routes."

Zhuge Liang pointed to the map, his eyes gleaming:

"One route leads out of Tongguan and directly to Hanzhong, another goes through Yangpingguan to seize Baxi, and there's another..."

Before he could finish speaking, hurried footsteps came from outside the door.

A bodyguard strode in carrying a scroll of yellow silk imperial edict:

"Governor-General, an urgent imperial edict has been issued!"

Zhuge Liang straightened his clothes and led his generals to kneel and receive the imperial edict.

When they heard the order to "immediately summon Zhuge Liang, the governor of Yong and Liang, back to the capital," all the generals in the hall were astonished.

Jiang Wei was the first to lose his temper:
"General! The campaign against Wei is at a critical juncture. Why has the court summoned you back to the capital at this time?"

The people of Guanzhong were now eagerly awaiting the imperial court's approval of their proposal to attack Wei and destroy Shu.

Unexpectedly, what they received was not an order to send troops, but an imperial edict summoning Zhuge Liang, the Grand Commander of Yong and Liang, back to the capital.

Li Yan also frowned and said:

"Could it be that someone in the court is jealous of the Commander's great achievements and is deliberately doing this at this time..."

Zhuge Liang raised his hand to stop the generals' discussion, slowly rolled up the imperial edict, and his gaze was profound:
"Since it is an imperial edict, we should obey it."

He turned to Lu Xun, who had been sitting quietly to the side:
"Boyan, what's your opinion on this matter?"

Lu Xun stroked his long beard and smiled slightly:
"Governor, this is a joyous occasion!"

Seeing that everyone was puzzled, Lu Xun slowly explained:
"The Emperor is seriously ill now, and Chancellor Chen has just passed away. Although Chancellor Li is highly respected, he has already retired from court."

"Why the rush to summon the governor back to the capital at this time? If it weren't for the governor's succession as prime minister, why would there be such a hurry?"

The hall fell silent instantly.

Zhuge Liang shook his head and sighed:
"Although I have some achievements in Guanzhong, compared with Li Xiang and Chen Xiang, they are like fireflies compared to the bright moon."

"How dare I accept the position of Prime Minister?"

"...You are too modest, Commander." Lu
Xun said solemnly, "Your achievements in Jiaozhou, Jingzhou, and Guanzhong are evident to all."

"Besides..."

He lowered his voice, "Since the court has made a decision, I presume that Prime Minister Li has also given his approval."

"If you don't return, you'll only appear cowardly."

Zhuge Liang remained silent for a long time before finally nodding:

"Boyan is absolutely right."

Jiang Wei asked from the side:
"If the governor leaves, what will become of the military and political situation in Guanzhong?"

"Wouldn't the grand plan to attack Wei be abandoned halfway through?"

Zhuge Liang pondered for a moment and said:

“I will submit a memorial to the court recommending Boyan to temporarily assume the military and political duties in Guanzhong.”

"You must do your utmost to assist him and not slacken your efforts."

Three days later, the time to depart will arrive.

Zhuge Liang traveled light, bringing only a dozen or so close followers.

However, when he stepped out of the governor's mansion, he was shocked by the scene before him.

From the Governor's Mansion to the gates of Chang'an, the roadsides were lined with people.

There were old men leaning on canes, women holding babies, and farmers putting down their tools.

There were also vendors carrying eggs and cloth.

An elderly man with white hair stepped forward shakily and knelt down on the ground:
"Governor! Your reduction of taxes, development of water conservancy, and establishment of schools in Guanzhong have brought us a better life."

"What will we do now that you're leaving?"

Immediately, cries erupted from all sides.

A child broke free from his mother's hand, ran forward, and grabbed Zhuge Liang's sleeve:
"Grandpa Zhuge, don't go!"

Zhuge Liang bent down and picked up the child, tears welling in his eyes.

He recalled that when he first arrived in Guanzhong eight years ago, the area was still a desolate wasteland after the war.

For the past eight years, he has shared weal and woe with the military and civilians.

Reclaiming wasteland, rebuilding water conservancy projects, and revitalizing education and culture...

Ten years in Jiaozhou, eight years in Guanzhong.

How many decades or eight years does one have in a lifetime?

"Fellow elders!"

Zhuge Liang's voice choked with emotion, "I was ordered to return to the capital, but it was truly against my will."

"However, General Lu Boyan is both talented and virtuous, and he will surely treat the people of Guanzhong well."

Someone in the crowd shouted:
"We only want Commander Zhuge!"

At this moment, a young man who looked like a scholar spoke in a loud voice:

"The governor in Guanzhong not only ensured that we had enough to eat and wear."

"Reopen schools so that children from poor families can also study and understand principles."

"This kindness and virtue will be unforgettable for all eternity!"

Zhuge Liang returned the child to its mother and then approached the young man.

"The key to learning lies in perseverance."

"Now the imperial court is opening up the civil service examinations and removing restrictions on admission."

"If you can pass the imperial examination with flying colors one day, that will be the best reward for Liang."

The young man bowed deeply:
"The student will certainly live up to the Governor's expectations."

Lu Xun watched this scene from the side and couldn't help but sigh:

"The people's gratitude for Xiao He's governance of Guanzhong in the past could not have been greater than this."

Ultimately, Zhuge Liang had no choice but to set off.

He bowed deeply three times to the people who were seeing him off, then mounted his horse.

The spring breeze lifted his clothes, making them flutter.

Generals Jiang Wei and Li Yan escorted them all the way to the ten-mile-long pavilion.

"Even after sending you a thousand miles, we must finally say goodbye."

Zhuge Liang reined in his horse in front of the pavilion and said, "Gentlemen, please return and guard Guanzhong well."

Jiang Wei knelt on one knee:

"Rest assured, Commander, we will do our utmost to live up to your trust!"

Zhuge Liang nodded, his gaze sweeping over the generals who had fought alongside him, finally settling on Lu Xun:
"Boyan, I'll leave Guanzhong to you for now."

"The specific candidate for governor must wait for the imperial decree."

Although Zhuge Liang entrusted Lu Xun with the management of affairs in Guanzhong.

However, only the imperial court could appoint the governor of Yongliang; Zhuge Liang's decision did not count.

At most, he could only offer suggestions to the imperial court; the final decision rested with them.

Only the cabinet and Liu Bei.

Lu Xun solemnly returned the greeting:
"...The Governor-General can enter the capital with peace of mind."

"I hope that one day you will be able to realize your ambitions and achieve great things in the imperial court."

The carriage slowly started moving, and Zhuge Liang took one last look back at Chang'an.

The city walls were magnificent under the setting sun, but what he cherished even more was the simple and honest people of this land.

He recalled the scene when he left Jiaozhou, and it was just like that then—

The people lined the streets to see them off, their cries shaking the heavens.

Serving as an official and bringing benefits to the people in one's jurisdiction—this was a belief he always upheld.

"grown ups,"

The attendant driving the carriage asked softly, "How is the journey to Luoyang?"

Zhuge Liang withdrew his gaze, his expression returning to its usual composure:

"No matter what lies ahead, I only ask to have a clear conscience and to be worthy of the people."

The carriage gradually drove away and disappeared at the end of the official road.

The people of Guanzhong will forever praise Zhuge Liang, who served for eight years and brought them a good life.

……

In Jianye City, the palace of the King of Wu stretches to the clouds.

With its flying eaves and verdant peaks, it is no less impressive than the imperial palace in Luoyang.

It was late spring.
Painted boats dotted the Huai River, and music and singing filled the air.

King Liu Yong of Wu was holding a grand banquet for his officials at the newly completed "Wangxiantai" (Viewing the Immortals Terrace).

"My beloved ministers."

Liu Yong raised his glass, his face flushed, "Today, Wangxiantai is completed; let us all drink to our hearts' content!"

This Wangxiantai (Viewing Immortals Terrace) is nine zhang and nine chi high, with its base made of white jade and its railings carved with coiled dragons and soaring phoenixes.

A curtain made of South Sea pearls hung on the stage, and a velvet carpet bought from a Persian merchant was laid on the floor.

The singers, dressed in fine silks and satins, danced gracefully in the center of the stage, like fairies descending to earth.

Chancellor Zhuge Jin sat at the end of the table, his brows slightly furrowed.

As he watched the clinking of glasses and listened to the melodious music, his worries deepened day by day.

After several rounds of drinks, Liu Yong said smugly:

"Six years have passed since my father bestowed upon me the title of King of Wu."

"Lai Donghai Salt Profits, Jiangnan Silk and Tea".

"The treasury is full and the army is strong."

"Recently, we have acquired ivory from Cochinchina and pearls from the South China Sea; these are all benefits from maritime trade."

General Quan Cong flattered:

"Your Majesty is wise. By opening up the seas and promoting trade, the Kingdom of Wu has become the richest in the world."

"Looking at this platform now, even Emperor Wu of Han's Bailiang Platform cannot compare!"

Liu Yong laughed and ordered his servants to bring over a large box.

When the box was opened, the room was filled with light—it was a whole box of gold ingots.

"This was recently presented by a merchant from the sea,"

Liu Yong casually grabbed a handful of gold ingots and let them slip through his fingers.

"I wish to expand my navy by another 8,000 and build 100 warships."

"What do you all think about using this to demonstrate our national power to foreign lands?"

A chorus of agreement immediately followed. Only Zhuge Jin rose and remonstrated:

"Your Majesty, our navy now numbers 30,000, with 200 warships."

"It is sufficient to protect the territory and ensure the safety of the people."

"If we expand the army further, it will likely burden the people and waste resources, and also arouse suspicion from the court."

Liu Yong was displeased:

"Why does the Prime Minister say such a thing? The court has already permitted each vassal state to train its own troops and maintain domestic stability."

"What wrong have I done?"

The banquet ended unhappily.

That night, Zhuge Jin secretly visited his friend Yan Jun.

In the study of the Yan family mansion, the candlelight flickered.

“Brother Mancai,” Zhuge Jin said with concern, “at today’s banquet, the King again wanted to expand the army.”

"Furthermore, he had close ties with the Eastern Yi, and Sun Quan, still harboring treacherous intentions, always wanted to launch a counterattack against the Central Plains."

"If this continues, it could lead to disaster."

Yan Jun pondered for a moment and said:
"...Ziyu's concerns are absolutely correct."

"However, I have heard that your younger brother, Kongming, will soon return to the capital to succeed as Grand Secretary. Is this true?"

"The news is true."

Zhuge Jin nodded, "It just hasn't been verified yet."

"This is a golden opportunity!"

Yan Jun clapped his hands and said, "If your brother takes control of the government, why doesn't Ziyu use his position as prime minister to have him transferred back to the capital?"

"It can both preserve the brotherly bond and avoid this place of trouble."

Zhuge Jin sighed:
"How could I not want to? But the king has never allowed me to resign."

“In that case,” Yan Jun lowered his voice, “we might as well feign an attack on one side while secretly advancing on the other…”

Three days later,
Liu Yong summoned Zhuge Jin to the palace to discuss matters.

"I have thought about it repeatedly."

Liu Yong pointed to the naval expansion plans on the table.

"Expanding the army is imperative."

Why does the Prime Minister always obstruct things?

Zhuge Jin already had a plan in mind and calmly replied:

"I am not trying to obstruct Your Majesty, but rather acting in your best interests."

"Although the court now allows the various vassal states to train their troops, excessive expansion will inevitably arouse suspicion."

"I believe it would be better to use the funds to build palaces."

Liu Yong was stunned:

"What do you mean by that?"

"Your Majesty, please consider."

Zhuge Jin said slowly, "Expanding the army and training soldiers is tantamount to treason."

"The construction of palaces is merely for the enjoyment of the feudal lords."

"The court was actually relieved to see that the king was indulging in pleasure."

Liu Yong seemed to be deep in thought:
"go on."

"In the past, King Goujian of Yue presented Xi Shi to King Wu, which was a strategy to show weakness."

"Now Your Majesty is building palaces extensively and taking many beautiful concubines."

"The court will surely think that Your Majesty has no great ambitions, and only in this way can the peace of Wu be guaranteed."

Liu Yong was overjoyed:

"Your insight is brilliant, Prime Minister! I had not considered this aspect at all."

As a result, the entire state of Wu began a massive construction project.

First, the palace was expanded, and the "Qifeng Pavilion" and "Cangjiao Tower" were added.

They also built the "Xiaoyao Garden" on the shore of Xuanwu Lake.

The garden is filled with all kinds of exotic flowers, rare plants, and exotic birds and animals.

One day, Liu Yong and Zhuge Jin inspected the newly built "Jinfan Hall".

This hall was built by the water, and the interior was covered with Shu brocade carpets.

The beams and pillars are all made of agarwood, which emits a faint fragrance.

"What do you think of this palace, Prime Minister?"

Liu Yong asked smugly.

Zhuge Jin sighed inwardly, but outwardly praised:
"Exquisite craftsmanship, comparable to the Epang Palace."

Epang Palace, Epang Palace, the downfall of the First Emperor.

Liu Yong was unaware that he was expanding his palace and indulging in pleasure.

Although it could lull the court into a false sense of security and make it lower its guard against the Wu region.

However, it also greatly depleted the national strength of the Wu Kingdom.

Zhuge Jin is leaving himself a way out.

At this moment, a palace attendant led a group of singing girls forward.

These women were all beautiful with bright eyes and white teeth, and had graceful figures.

"These are three hundred singing girls carefully selected from all over Jiangnan."

Liu Yong laughed and said, "I wish to select another seven hundred to make a total of a thousand people, so that we can sing and dance day and night without end."

Zhuge Jin seized the opportunity to say:

"Since Your Majesty loves singing and dancing, why not build another 'Pavilion of Wonderful Sounds'?"

"I have heard that there are skilled craftsmen in Sichuan and Chongqing who are good at building echo chambers."

"Wonderful! Wonderful!"

Liu Yong was overjoyed, "Immediately order someone to go to Sichuan to recruit skilled craftsmen!"

Upon leaving the palace, Zhuge Jin encountered Quan Cong.

Quan Cong sneered:
"The Prime Minister has recently won the King's favor."

Zhuge Jin said calmly:

"As a subject, one should naturally share the burdens of one's lord."

That night, Zhuge Jin sent a secret letter to his trusted confidant in Luoyang.

The letter detailed the recent extravagance of the Wu Kingdom, especially mentioning the construction of palaces and the recruitment of singing girls.

Finally, it was written:
"...King Yong of Wu became increasingly arrogant and extravagant, and forgot his original aspirations."

At the same time, Yan Jun came to visit.

The two had a private conversation in the pavilion in the back garden.

“Ziyu’s plan is brilliant,” Yan Jun said in a low voice. “Liu Yong is now indulging in wine and women and has not been involved in military and political affairs for three months.”

Zhuge Jin gazed at the moonlight outside the pavilion, his expression complex:
“I did not want to use this trick, but for the sake of the country, I had no choice.”

"I heard that Kongming has arrived in Luoyang and will soon be appointed prime minister."

Yan Jun said, "When you are transferred back to the capital, the brothers can be reunited."

Zhuge Jin, however, showed no joy:
"I only hope that the people of Wu will not be implicated in this."

Zhuge Jin's strategy was also a tactic of retreating to advance.

Liu Yong's extravagance not only drained the resources of the Wu Kingdom, but also...

The news reached Luoyang, then the imperial court, and finally the ears of the old emperor who aspired to be a wise ruler, comparable to Emperor Gaozu and Emperor Guangwu.

One cannot imagine how furious he would be.

At that time, Zhuge Jin, the prime minister, will certainly be implicated for "failing to properly advise" the emperor.

At that time, Zhuge Liang will only need to mediate.

Zhuge Jin was then able to resign, receiving a demotion in name only but a promotion in reality, and was transferred back to the capital.

This is also the survival rule of the Zhuge family.

Zhuge Jin would not have taken this strategy unless absolutely necessary.

……

(End of this chapter)