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

Chapter 461 Unwavering Loyalty to Peach Garden, the Martial Saint's Last Dance

Meanwhile, Gongsun Xu submitted a memorial to the imperial court in Luoyang.

That memorial, which went to great lengths to exonerate Silla from its "rebellious" nature and to justify itself, was like a boulder thrown into the peaceful court of Luoyang.

It instantly stirred up a huge wave.

Inside Weiyang Palace, Liu Shan held a memorial in his hand, his face grim.

The civil and military officials were even more outraged.

"Your Majesty! Silla, a tiny and insignificant state, dares to attack the imperial army."

"This has caused General Gongsun to suffer heavy losses; this is an act of disrespect for the imperial authority, a crime akin to treason!"

"If we do not punish them severely, how can we deter the barbarians?"

"How can the dignity of our Celestial Empire be trampled upon by barbarians?"

"Your Majesty, I request that you send a large army to crush Silla and capture its false king."

"Present the captives to the emperor to set the record straight!"

"Silla, a mere vassal state, has shown such utter ingratitude!"

“If this is not punished, won’t all the vassal states in the Western Regions and the South China Sea follow suit in the future?”

"The lineage and authority will be completely destroyed!"

The outcry grew louder and louder, almost lifting the roof off the palace.

At this moment, a strong sense of national pride and the superiority of the Celestial Empire transformed into a raging fire of anger.

They demanded that this defeat, which was considered a great disgrace, be washed away with blood and fire.

Liu Shan took a deep breath, suppressing the shock and anger in his heart.

Turning our attention to the ever-silent Prime Minister, Zhuge Liang:
"Prime Minister, the opinion of all the ministers is to advocate for military campaigns."

"What does the Prime Minister think?"

Zhuge Liang held a feather fan, a deep worry etched on his brow.

He stepped forward and bowed, his voice steady yet clearly tinged with caution:
"Your Majesty, I understand the anger of the officials."

"However, matters of conquest concern the fate of the nation and must be handled with utmost care."

“Silla was far beyond Liaodong, a wild and uncivilized land.”

"The people are uncultured, and the land is barren."

"If we were to embark on a long sea expedition, the cost of money and provisions would likely far exceed that of ordinary expeditions."

He paused, then analyzed in detail:

"When a large army is mobilized, it needs provisions, weapons, boats, and laborers."

"Transporting goods from the Central Plains to Liaodong is a long and arduous journey by land, resulting in significant losses."

"Then, crossing the sea from Liaodong to Silla, the winds and waves were treacherous, and the losses were even greater."

"Based on calculations, I fear that out of ten bushels of grain, less than three or four would reach the army."

"Such consumption is a heavy burden on both the country and its people."

"Moreover, Silla has a complex terrain and a harsh climate, as evidenced by Gongsun Xu's previous defeat."

"It is not that I am afraid of war, but I am concerned about the strength of the nation and the people, and I fear that the losses will outweigh the gains."

No sooner had the words been spoken than a radical official immediately retorted:

"Prime Minister, you are mistaken! The majesty of the Celestial Empire is heavier than Mount Tai!"

"How can we tolerate such humiliation from our vassal states just because it costs money and grain?"

"If everything is measured by money and grain, where is the nation's prestige? Where is its dignity?"

"Does the Prime Minister mean that our Celestial Empire should swallow this insult and let the Silla barbarians run rampant?"

The ministers are now only thinking about venting their anger.

As for money and provisions?

Anyway, it's not their responsibility to pay; it's all the ordinary people who pay.

If all else fails, just increase taxes and make the people suffer a bit.

In any case, once ordinary people hear that the country has won a war, they will temporarily forget the hardships of their lives.

Zhuge Liang shook his head and patiently explained:
"...It's not about forbearance."

"However, all that we know so far is based on Gongsun Xu's side of the story."

"His memorial was vague about the actions of the Han army in Silla."

"They also made many excuses for the reasons for the defeats in the war."

"The truth remains unknown."

"In my opinion, we should first send a capable official to Liaodong as soon as possible."

"Investigate the whole story thoroughly, verify the facts, and then make a decision."

"If Silla truly provokes us without cause and breaks its promise, it will not be too late to send troops to punish them."

"Only in this way can we maintain the court's discerning and impartial approach, ensuring that no one is wrongly accused or let off lightly."

At this moment, the Left Chancellor Pang Tong stepped forward.

He was known for his ingenious strategies and decisive actions.

His expression was solemn, and his voice was firm:
"Kongming's concerns are reasonable."

"However, I believe this is not feasible!"

He faced Liu Shan and his ministers and said loudly:

"Regardless of the details of the truth, the Silla army attacked our Chinese soldiers."

"This resulted in heavy casualties for our army, forcing us to retreat in disarray. This is an undeniable fact!"

"This one crime alone constitutes an unforgivable offense!"

"If the court still insists on investigating such actions before deciding on a punishment, how will the surrounding foreign vassal states view this?"

"They must think that the Celestial Empire is strong on the outside but weak on the inside, and can be bullied and insulted!"

"At that time, border troubles will be frequent, and there will never be a day of peace!"

He turned his gaze to Zhuge Liang, his tone deep and serious:
"Kongming, there is one more point that you should think carefully about."

"Now our great Han Dynasty is unified, and the country is growing stronger every day."

"The people's morale and spirits are high, and they all consider themselves the Celestial Empire, full of confidence."

"If the people of the world were to know that our royal army had suffered such a great humiliation abroad."

"But the imperial court has been slow to launch a swift and decisive counterattack. How can the raging public opinion be appeased?"

"At that time, public opinion will be in uproar, criticizing the court for its weakness, which may be beyond our ability to suppress!"

"For the sake of the overall situation, and to maintain the confidence of the people and the prestige of the court."

"This battle must be fought!"

"It must be dispatched swiftly to demonstrate Heaven's wrath!"

Pang Tong's words struck Zhuge Liang like a heavy hammer.

He knew perfectly well that what Pang Tong said was true.

National sentiment is a double-edged sword.

It can unite the nation's strength, but it can also backfire on itself.

With such a strong sense of "Celestial Empire" consciousness, any sign of "weakness" from the imperial court would inevitably result in immense internal pressure.

Zhuge Liang pondered for a long time, and the hall was silent, with all eyes focused on him.

He quickly weighed the pros and cons in his mind:

The expedition was extremely costly and fraught with unknown risks, highlighting the urgent need to maintain national prestige and appease public opinion.

finally,
He sighed inwardly, knowing that in the current public opinion environment, there was no better choice.

He raised his head, his gaze regaining its firmness, and bowed to Liu Shan, saying:

"Your Majesty, Pang Shiyuan's words demonstrate his maturity in governing the country and his deep understanding of the times."

"Your subject... seconded the motion."

"We should send troops to conquer Silla and punish them for attacking the heavenly army and showing contempt for the imperial court!"

"However, supplies must be prepared before troops can move."

"We need to start immediately and make thorough preparations."

"We hope that next spring, we can advance by both land and sea and achieve victory in one fell swoop!"

When Liu Shan saw that Zhuge Liang also agreed to use force, he was immediately invigorated and slammed his fist on the table, saying:
"Very well! We shall do as the two ministers wish!"

"The Cabinet is hereby ordered to formulate a strategy immediately, to coordinate the nation's food and military supplies, and to mobilize elite troops."

"Your subject, Zhuge Liang, accepts the imperial decree and expresses his gratitude!"

Zhuge Liang solemnly accepted the imperial decree.

The court meeting ended, and the machinery of conquest began to rumble into action.

The imperial edict was sent to all prefectures and counties, urging the mobilization of grain and provisions.

Troops were mobilized, and ships were built.

However, upon returning to the Prime Minister's residence, Zhuge Liang felt little joy at having the victory in his grasp.

Instead, they were shrouded in a deep sense of worry.

He sat alone in his study, facing a huge map of the territory.

His gaze lingered on the long supply line between Silla and Nakyang, growing increasingly alarmed with each glance.

The lingering worry about the exhaustion of national strength due to long-distance expeditions has always been a persistent concern.

"Perhaps... I should consult the Prime Minister again."

Zhuge Liang pondered for a moment, then got up and headed towards the residence of Li Yi, who had already retired.

Inside the Prime Minister's residence, it was warm and spring-like.

Li Yi was sitting around a uniquely shaped bronze "Mandarin Duck Pot".

The red and white broth in the pot was bubbling and the aroma was irresistible.

He was not surprised to see Zhuge Liang visit, and waved with a smile:

"Kongming has arrived? Perfect timing! Try this newly prepared 'antique soup' to ward off the chill."

Zhuge Liang had no appetite, but seeing that Li Yi was in high spirits, he had no choice but to sit down as instructed.

He laid out the court's decisions and his own anxieties to Li Yi.

Li Yi did not comment immediately after hearing this.

Instead, he picked up a thin slice of meat and dipped it in the boiling broth.

Dip it in the sauce and slowly put it in your mouth.

After savoring the taste, he put down his chopsticks and sighed softly.
"This matter was also within my expectations."

"The Chinese people are so self-confident that they look down on everything around them."

"Enthusiastic about expanding territory and demonstrating martial prowess."

"However, few people have given deep thought to how to govern the area after it has been conquered?"

"Given the current administrative efficiency, let alone Silla."

"Even with Liaodong and Lelang, it was mostly just a matter of keeping them at arm's length."

"Central government orders are rarely able to reach the central government directly."

"If we were to take Silla as well, it would be too far away for us to reach it."

How can the imperial court effectively exercise its jurisdiction?

"It's a waste of national strength to gain a hollow reputation."

"It might even cause harm to future generations, which is not the way of a wise person."

Zhuge Liang deeply agreed and sighed:

"What the Prime Minister says is exactly what I am worried about."

"However, now that we are in a precarious situation, we have no choice but to act."

Li Yi, Li Yi's beloved daughter who was serving nearby, was exceptionally intelligent and couldn't help but interject upon hearing this:

“Father, Uncle Zhuge, since the court cannot directly govern…”

"Why not emulate the ancient Zhou dynasty and implement a system of enfeoffment?"

"The land of Silla was granted to a prince or member of the royal family to serve as a bulwark and guard the eastern border."

"Wouldn't that be the best of both worlds?"

Upon hearing this, Li Yi couldn't help but smile and looked at his daughter:

"Yi'er's idea is quite interesting."

"Yes, do you know that?"

"Silla is a wild and harsh land. To enfeoff it to a prince is no different from exile."

"Does the prince harbor no resentment?"

"This is one of them."

His tone turned serious, "Secondly, even if the prince is willing to accept the title and follow the example of the Zhou dynasty..."

"However, the feudal lords enfeoffed by the Zhou dynasty initially served to protect the royal family."

"However, after several generations, the feudal lords became powerful and regarded the Zhou dynasty as nothing."

"During the Spring and Autumn Period, there was a struggle for hegemony, and during the Warring States Period, there was annexation. The emperor was merely a figurehead."

"Even the weight of the tripods was questioned by King Zhuang of Chu!"

"The system of enfeoffment is a double-edged sword."

"Not only will it not ensure lasting peace, but it may also sow the seeds of separatism!"

Li Yi, being intelligent and quick-witted, immediately understood and exclaimed:
"Father is worried that if Silla is divided up, there may be peace in the short term."

"However, given enough time, that place will inevitably become an independent country."

"Even more so if the country is powerful."

"Wouldn't it be possible that they would look westward, thus becoming a major threat to the Central Plains?"

"Of course!"

Li Yi nodded approvingly, "The current national system does not yet have the ability to fully control the vast territory."

“Forcibly annexing or enfeoffing through intermediaries are not good strategies.”

"The stability of power cannot be guaranteed by a single imperial edict or blood ties."

He seemed to have been intrigued, his gaze becoming deep, and he said to Zhuge Liang:

"Kongming, I will say a few more words today."

"Power, in a sense, is not inherited in kind."

"It's a 'relationship'."

"For example, the relationships between ruler and subject, superior and subordinate, master and servant, and even allies."

"Relationships require continuous management and maintenance by both people and systems."

"If the successor is incompetent, or the system collapses."

"Then the network of relationships established by our predecessors will be like a tower built on sand, which can collapse in an instant."

Therefore, the succession of power is by no means stable, and can even be described as fragile.

"They believed that once they conquered territory, they would be unable to govern it directly, so they could simply distribute it among the people."

"They thought this would become the royal territory, to be enjoyed by their descendants forever..."

"This idea is far too naive."

Zhuge Liang was deeply moved, feeling that Li Yi's discourse on the nature of power was something he had never heard before.

Yet it goes straight to the heart of the matter.

He stood up and bowed solemnly:
"Your Excellency is insightful and discerning, truly wise... I have learned a great deal!"

"Every time I talk with the Prime Minister, I realize how shallow my knowledge is."

Li Yi waved his hand, gesturing for him to sit down, and then asked:
"That's enough. Now that the matter has been decided, we will do our best to resolve it."

"By the way, has the follow-up handling of Liu Yan's case been properly completed?"

Zhuge Liang composed himself and replied:

"Your Excellency, after the trial by the Court of Justice, all of his property has been confiscated, and all his family members, except for the Hu family, have been exiled."

"All the formalities have been completed."

"Ah."

Li Yi nodded. "I have already requested His Majesty's decree to remove Liu Yan's name from the list of meritorious officials in the Lingyan Pavilion."

Upon hearing this, Zhuge Liang hesitated.
"Prime Minister, shouldn't we reconsider this move?"

"Liu Yan was, after all, a favorite minister of the late emperor. It was only through the late emperor's strong protection that he was able to be included among the twenty-eight ministers of Lingyan Pavilion."

"Removing it abruptly might provoke public criticism and also damage the late emperor's reputation..."

Li Yi's expression was calm, but his tone left no room for argument:

"Lingyan Pavilion is a place to commend meritorious service and set an example for future generations; it is not a place to reside in based on favor or privilege."

"Liu Yande is unworthy of his position and incompetent in his duties."

"In his later years, he became increasingly arrogant and reckless, bringing disaster upon himself."

"Leaving their names on it will not only fail to enhance its luster, but will also tarnish the pavilion's reputation."

"My mind is made up about this matter."

Seeing Li Yi's resolute attitude, Zhuge Liang knew he couldn't force him to agree, so he had no choice but to comply.
"In that case, I will obey."

He then remembered something else: "However, with Liu Yan gone, a vacancy has been created in the Lingyan Pavilion."

"In your opinion, Prime Minister, who should be appointed to fill the vacancy?"

Li Yi, who was standing to the side, had a thought in his mind.

She knew all too well that when the meritorious officials of Lingyan Pavilion were selected back then.

Zhuge Liang was unfortunately not selected because he was involved in a political turmoil, despite his outstanding achievements.

Now the father is determined to remove Liu Yan, leaving the position vacant.

Could it have been left specifically for Uncle Zhuge?
Given Zhuge Shufu's current status and achievements, his inclusion in the Lingyan Pavilion is truly well-deserved.

However, Li Yi's answer was beyond her expectations.

Li Yi pondered for a moment, then slowly said:

"Let's leave this position vacant for now."

"Vacant?"

Zhuge Liang was slightly surprised.

"good."

Li Yi's gaze swept over Zhuge Liang, then seemed to look into the void.

"The position of Lingyan Pavilion is no ordinary official post and should not be granted lightly."

"This seat remains undecided."

"This can inspire future generations to strive for excellence and look forward to achieving immortal accomplishments."

“In the future, those who have truly made outstanding contributions and are highly respected by the people will be added to the ranks.”

"Only in this way can the honor of this position be truly manifested."

Upon hearing this, Zhuge Liang immediately understood Li Yi's deeper meaning.

This vacant position is not reserved for any particular person. Rather, it serves as a symbol, a goal, to inspire all officials to serve the country and strive for outstanding achievements.

He was filled with admiration for Li Yi's foresight and public-spiritedness, and bowed deeply, saying:
"I understand your profound meaning, Prime Minister."

"This arrangement is excellent."

Li Yi, standing to the side, nodded in approval, admiring his father's thorough consideration.

Just then, a servant outside the mansion suddenly announced in a loud voice:
"Your Excellency, General Guan Yu is requesting an audience outside the residence!"

Li Yi and Zhuge Liang exchanged a glance, both seeing a hint of surprise in each other's eyes.

What brings Guan Yu to visit us at this time?
As soon as the attendant finished reporting, Li Yi and Zhuge Liang exchanged a glance.

They both saw a hint of surprise and understanding in each other's eyes.

The purpose of Guan Yu's visit at this time is self-evident.

"Quickly, invite Yun Chang in."

Li Yi put down his chopsticks and straightened his robes.

A moment later, Guan Yu strode in with the imposing presence of a dragon and the powerful stride of a tiger.

Although he was over fifty, his temples were already streaked with gray.

Yet his posture remained as upright as a pine tree, and his face was as red as a jujube.

His phoenix eyes exuded an imposing aura even without anger.

He first bowed respectfully to Li Yi:
"Master Yu".

He then bowed to Zhuge Liang.
"Mr. Kongming".

Li Yi smiled and gestured:

"Yun Chang, there's no need for such formalities. You've come at just the right time."

"Sit down and try this antique soup to ward off the spring chill."

Guan Yu shook his head, his expression solemn, showing no inclination for pleasantries.
"Thank you for your kind offer, Master Yu, but I have something on my mind and cannot eat."

His eyes shone brightly as he looked directly at Li Yi and Zhuge Liang, and he went straight to the point:

"I have come here for only one matter."

"The imperial court has decided to launch a campaign against Silla. I, Guan, though unworthy, humbly request to serve as the commander-in-chief of the army."

"Leading a single brigade, we will pacify the barbarians in the east and display the might of our Han Dynasty!"

Although this was expected, hearing Guan Yu say it himself still made Li Yi and Zhuge Liang feel a little uneasy.

Guan Yu was like a raging fire, strong-willed and self-important.

Moreover, he was already quite old, and given his special status, he was not the best choice for an expedition to Silla.

Before Li Yi could speak, Zhuge Liang had already offered his advice:

"Brother Yun's loyalty and courage are evident to Heaven and Earth."

"However, the journey to conquer Silla is long and arduous."

"The environment is treacherous, unlike the war in the Central Plains."

"Brother, you are getting on in years. You should stay in the court and enjoy your remaining years."

Why brave arrows and stones, and suffer the hardships of wind and frost?

"Moreover," he said, his tone turning serious, "you are a pillar of the nation, and the position of Grand General is of unparalleled prestige."

"If the expedition goes wrong, it will be an unbearable loss for both the country and the army."

"I urge Brother Yun to reconsider."

Li Yi nodded slowly and replied:
"...What Kongming said is also my concern."

"Yun Chang's achievements are recorded in history, and he has reached the highest position among officials."

"To be granted the title of Duke and appointed General is the height of honor and favor."

"Even if we win a great victory in this campaign against Silla, it will not bring much benefit to your rank, salary, or position."

"However, things on the battlefield can change in an instant."

"If there is any mishap, my lifelong reputation may be tarnished."

"I hope that Yun Chang will carefully weigh these gains and losses."

Li Yi, who was standing to the side, also softly advised:
"Uncle Guan, what Uncle Zhuge and Father said makes sense."

"Silla was a harsh and desolate land, rife with miasma."

"I heard that General Gongsun Xu's previous defeat was also related to the unfavorable weather."

"You are of advanced age and your health is of utmost importance. It is really not advisable for you to go to such a dangerous place."

After hearing everyone's advice to dissuade him, Guan Yu stroked his beard and laughed loudly, his voice shaking the roof tiles:

"Hahaha! Gentlemen, my dear niece."

"What you are worried about is all based on weighing gains and losses."

"However, I am but a military man with a pure heart."

"I only know how to serve my country and share my worries!"

"Fame and fortune are nothing but fleeting clouds to me!"

"I only wish to gallop across the battlefield and die wrapped in a horse's hide, so as not to have failed the ambition of a man's life!"

His laughter subsided, a hint of reminiscence and resolve flashed in his phoenix eyes, and his tone became serious:
"Now, elder brother... the late emperor has passed away."

"The Han dynasty's empire is entrusted to Your Majesty and your ministers."

"Whenever Guan thinks of the oath of brotherhood in the Peach Garden, when he and his elder brother and younger brother swore to support the Han Dynasty."

"I often feel that time has slipped away and my achievements are yet to be completed."

"Since I belong to the country, I should do my utmost."

"I will do my utmost to contribute to the country and its people that my elder brother left behind!"

"If I can use this old body to expand the territory of the Han Dynasty one last time and deter the disobedient."

"Even if I were to die on the battlefield, I would feel extremely fortunate and delighted!"

Why worry about old age, why fear danger and distance?

His words were passionate and stirring, filled with the purity of a warrior and his unwavering loyalty to his former master and country.

Upon hearing this, Li Yi, Zhuge Liang, and Li Yi were all deeply moved.

Li Yi's eyes reddened slightly, and he secretly sighed that General Guan was truly a loyal and righteous man.

However, although Zhuge Liang was moved by what he felt, he remained rational.

He knew that this battle was of paramount importance and could not be lost, and he advised again:
"I deeply admire Brother Yunchang's lofty aspirations."

"However, precisely because your reputation is related to the national dignity, you must be even more cautious."

"The victory in the Silla War was a matter of course, and it did little to enhance your reputation."

"If things don't go smoothly, or even if you suffer setbacks."

"Then the reputation that has been established for over forty years may be damaged."

"This is not merely for your personal benefit, brother, but for the sake of the nation's reputation! I hope you will understand!"

Zhuge Liang insisted that Guan Yu, given his status and position, should not take this risk.

Winning is not cost-effective, while losing results in huge losses.

Just when Zhuge Liang thought Li Yi would support him and join in dissuading him...

Li Yi suddenly spoke, his tone calm yet carrying an undeniable force:

"That's all."

Zhuge Liang looked at Li Yi with surprise, his eyes full of confusion.

In his memory, Li Yi had always been an extremely rational politician and strategist.

Weighing the pros and cons, his calmness bordered on ruthlessness.

Why did he agree to Guan Yu's seemingly "emotional" request this time?

Could it be true, as people say, that Li Yi's heart softened in his later years?

Like the late Emperor Liu Bei, did he value loyalty and righteousness even more?
Li Yi met Zhuge Liang's questioning gaze, but did not explain. Instead, he slowly said to Guan Yu:

"Since Guan Yu had such a strong will to serve his country and was willing to die on the battlefield, he was determined to die for his country."

"If I were to stop them again, it would seem that I am heartless and would discourage the soldiers."

"Since you have made up your mind, then... I grant your request."

Upon hearing this, Guan Yu's body trembled slightly, and a hint of tears welled up in his phoenix eyes.

He suddenly clasped his hands in a fist and bowed deeply to Li Yi, his voice choked with emotion:
"Lord Yu...you understand me!"

"Thank you, Guan!"

Zhuge Liang saw that Li Yi had already agreed, and Guan Yu was so resolute.

Knowing that further persuasion would be futile, he could only sigh inwardly and say to Guan Yu:

"Since Brother Yun and the Prime Minister have both made up their minds, I will not say anything more."

"Since you are the commander-in-chief, all the generals in the court..."

"Apart from those who are necessary to stay behind, you may select as you wish."

Guan Yu straightened up, his eyes regaining their sharpness. After a moment's thought, he said:
"In that case, I, Guan, will not stand on ceremony."

“My son Guan Ping will naturally accompany me.”

"Furthermore, General Wang Ping needs to lead the Wudang Flying Army as the vanguard, and General Zhang Yi needs to lead his own troops to provide support."

Guan Yu selected a group of land generals.

Zhuge Liang added:
"Silla is far beyond the Great Wall, so we should advance by both water and land."

"Regarding the online army..."

He paused, then thought of someone, "Zhu Huan can be appointed to lead this."

Zhu Huan was not merely a surrendered general of the Wu Kingdom.

The Zhu family is one of the four major surnames in Jiangnan.

In order to consolidate the imperial court's rule over Jiangnan, Zhuge Liang hoped to support the Zhu family and help him suppress other restless aristocratic families.

Upon hearing this, Guan Yu was somewhat reluctant, but considering that it was Zhuge Liang who had recommended him.

In the end, I agreed.

Next, Li Yi recommended some young people.

Some of these young people were outstanding talents who passed the imperial examination this year, while others were sons of powerful and influential families in the capital.

Li Yi did not really want to fight this battle.

However, considering the pressure from within the country, they acquiesced.

Since we've already started, let's just promote some more young and promising talents.

This will not only rejuvenate the army, but also rejuvenate the existing political structure of the court.

Preparations are in full swing from all sides.

By the following spring, the ice and snow had melted and all things were reviving.

The army that was to conquer the east swore an oath before setting out on its expedition.

Liu Shan personally led his civil and military officials to see him off at a long pavilion ten miles outside Luoyang.

Banners fluttered and armor gleamed.

Guan Yu was wearing a helmet and armor, with a green robe over it.

He rode Red Hare and held the Green Dragon Crescent Blade.

Although his hair and beard have turned white, he remains as imposing as ever.

Just as he was about to give the order to set off, he suddenly heard the rapid sound of hooves from behind, accompanied by a thunderous roar:
"Second Brother! Wait for me!"

Everyone turned around.

Then, Grand Marshal Zhang Fei arrived, riding his black horse, at breakneck speed.

Upon reaching him, Zhang Fei dismounted and rushed to Guan Yu in a few steps.

He grabbed Guan Yu's arm, his tiger-like eyes already brimming with tears.

"Second brother... this journey to Liaodong is through high mountains and long roads, a wild and desolate land."

"You...you must take good care of yourself!"

Zhang Fei's voice was rough and bold, but at this moment it was filled with undisguised sobs and worry.

Guan Yu felt a warmth in his heart as he looked at his sworn brother with whom he had shared life and death since childhood.

He patted Zhang Fei's hand, his tone calm and steady:
"Don't worry, Third Brother. I have fought for decades and I know what I'm doing."

"You can stay in Luoyang in peace. I will return victorious and then we will drink together!"

Zhang Fei's lips moved as if he had a thousand words to say.

But the words stuck in my throat, and I didn't know where to begin.

He stomped his foot and turned to leave.

But after taking only two steps, he suddenly turned back and gripped Guan Yu's hand tightly once more.

He shook repeatedly, his voice growing increasingly hoarse.
"Second Brother! Take care! You must take care!"

Tears finally streamed down the face of this reckless man.

An ominous premonition loomed over him like a dark cloud, as if this parting would be forever.

When Guan Yu saw his third brother in such a state, even he, with his heart of iron, could not help but be moved.

He took a deep breath, gripped Zhang Fei's hand tightly, and said in a deep voice:

"Third brother, you... take good care of yourself too."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Fei was filled with turmoil.

Suddenly he released his grip, took a step back, and bowed deeply to Guan Yu with utmost respect!
This bow
It contains too many unsaid words, too much brotherhood, and too much worry about the unknown fate.

Upon seeing this, Guan Yu quickly dismounted and stepped forward to help Zhang Fei up with both hands.

Their eyes met, and the glorious years of sworn brotherhood in the Peach Garden and traversing the world seemed to be contained in that single glance.

They looked at each other in silence, with only the sound of the spring breeze rustling the banners.

After a long while, Zhang Fei suddenly turned around and never looked back.

He strode towards his black horse, mounted it, and lashed the horse's rump with a whip.

They vanished into the distance, never looking back.

Guan Yu watched his third brother's departing figure, stood there for a long time, and then silently turned around and mounted his horse.

He tightened the reins, and Red Hare reared up, letting out a long neigh.

Guan Yu swung his Green Dragon Crescent Blade forward, the sound booming like a bell:

"set off!"

The army set out, heading north.

Although it is already springtime and flowers are in bloom, the further north you go, the colder it gets.

Upon entering Liaodong territory, the north wind was even more biting, and the vegetation had not yet fully recovered.

Zhang Hu, the governor of Lelang, and Gongsun Xu, who had retreated in defeat, had already led their troops to wait for them at the border.

Upon seeing Guan Yu's army banners, the two hurriedly stepped forward to pay their respects.

Gongsun Xu even greeted him with the respect due to a son or nephew:
"Your nephew Gongsun Xu greets Uncle!"

"Uncle Lao has come from afar, I am filled with trepidation!"

Guan Yu had a long-standing friendship with Gongsun Zan, and seeing his son's respectful attitude, his tone softened considerably.

"...Nephew, there's no need for such formalities."

"Thank you for your hard work in the previous battle."

The group was welcomed into the camp, and a banquet was held to greet them.

During the meal, Guan Yu inquired about the details of the previous battle with Silla.

Gongsun Xu was uneasy and tried his best to cover up his mistakes.

The blame for the defeat was entirely placed on the "cunning and rudeness" of the Silla people and the "sudden changes in weather," with much emphasis on how arrogant Silla was and how Seo-ro provoked them.

Upon hearing this, Guan Yu narrowed his phoenix eyes slightly.

A cold glint flashed, and the wine cup in his hand slammed heavily.
"Hmph! How dare these mere barbarians act like this!"

"Rest assured, my dear nephew, I, Guan, will personally lead the charge and surely crush Silla."

"Capture Zhu Ben and Xi Yu Lao, and we will seek justice for you and the fallen soldiers!"

Upon hearing this, Gongsun Xu felt somewhat relieved and quickly bowed in gratitude:

"Thank you, Uncle!"

After the banquet, Guan Yu summoned his generals to discuss matters.

He surveyed the generals under his command and said in a deep voice:
"Speed ​​is of the essence in war; how can we allow delays?"

"Now that our army has arrived, we should take advantage of Silla's unpreparedness."

"Move in immediately and catch them off guard!"

Wang Ping stepped forward and cautiously offered his advice:

"General, our army has arrived."

"However, General Zhu Huan's naval forces have not yet arrived."

"The original plan was to advance by land and sea to attack Silla from both sides."

"Should we... wait a few more days?"

"Wait until the naval forces have converged before advancing?"

Guan Yu frowned:
Why is Zhu Huan's navy sluggish? Could it be that he is intentionally disobeying military orders?

He already harbored resentment towards Zhu Huan, a former general of Eastern Wu, and was even more displeased upon hearing that Zhu Huan had not arrived on time.

Wang Ping hurriedly explained:

"General, please calm down."

"General Zhu sent a messenger to report that the wind direction at sea was unfavorable and that they needed to wait for the monsoon to change direction."

"Only by setting sail can we move forward swiftly; this is by no means an intentional delay."

Guan Yu snorted coldly:
"Hmph! Monsoon? I hope it's true!"

"If this delay leads to a change in military intelligence, I, Guan, will punish him severely according to military law!"

He hesitated for a moment, then resolutely said:

"However, now that the army is fully prepared, how can we just wait idly?"

"The opportunity to win is fleeting! Pass the order down."

"At dawn tomorrow, the army will set off and enter Lelang County first, threatening the border of Silla!"

"There's no need to wait for Zhu Huan!"

"promise!"

The generals responded in unison.

The next day, as the sun rose, the cold wind carried the distinctive chill of Liaodong.

Guan Yu's army broke camp and rose up like an iron torrent, rolling towards Silla.

Mount Red Hare, Guan Yu's gaze was firm, his green robe fluttering in the wind.

It seemed to foreshadow this journey that crossed mountains and seas, carrying the veteran's last aspirations.

……

(End of this chapter)