The Three Kingdoms: Hindsight is 20/20, and the Three Revivals of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 49 Hindsight is always 20/20: I'm here to send my blessings [Not part of the main text]

Liang observed that it was already midsummer, and knew that students from all over the country would soon be heading to the examination halls. The examinations were a major battle in life, and also an opportunity for young people to display their talents.

Now, entrusting the seven stars and the bright moon, I present you with three strategies:

Firstly, cultivate tranquility. When the late emperor entrusted his son to Zhuge Liang, he said, "Without detachment, one cannot clarify one's ambitions; without tranquility, one cannot achieve far-reaching goals." The examination hall is like a game of chess in Longzhong; one should conceal one's strength and observe the overall situation, holding back one's sharpness to await the opportune moment. Even when faced with difficult problems like the treacherous Qishan Pass, one should emulate Zhuge Liang's composure during his six expeditions, rather than emulate Zhou Yu's impatience at the Battle of Red Cliffs.

Secondly, it is essential to accumulate knowledge and experience. I have witnessed the fish leaping over the Dragon Gate, a feat achieved not in a single day. You, my lords, have spent three years studying diligently, much like Zhuge Liang's years of farming in Nanyang. Now, you should emulate Zhuge Liang's masterful preparation, gathering countless books in your mind, so that when the examination arrives, you can unleash your full strategic brilliance like the fire attack at Bowang.

Thirdly, uphold your will. Even after the star fell at Wuzhangyuan, the will to "devote oneself to the utmost" remained. You should all possess the spirit of Zhuge Liang emerging from the mountains, and the unwavering resolve that "the Han and the traitors cannot coexist." Even when faced with difficulties like the perilous Ziwu Valley, you must emulate Zhuge Liang's perseverance in capturing Zhuge Liang seven times.

As I write this, I wish you all: to wield your pens as nimbly as waving a feather fan, and to let your ink flow like an array of eight formations. May your scrolls be filled with the gathering of winds and clouds, and your writing as brilliant as the Milky Way. When you one day pass the imperial examinations with your name on the honor roll, do not forget the carefree days of your secluded life in Longzhong. Remember that the examination hall is not the final destination; the vast land awaits your writing.

Strive for it! I eagerly await your good news, just as I did at the Battle of Red Cliffs. When we meet again someday, I will play the zither to celebrate.

There's been a delay in comments recently; if you can't see them, it's not because I deleted them. Just wait a few days.

(End of this chapter)