Three Kingdoms: Start by marrying Cai Yan, then vie for supremacy.

32

"Religious people think differently from ordinary people," Jia Xu said with a smile. "Why not give it a try?"

He nodded slightly: "This matter is entirely in your hands, sir! If you have any requests, please feel free to give them, and I will do my utmost."

He had already made up his mind to be a dutiful assistant.

Such matters, which require strategic planning, are not his forte.

It's not that he lacks talent—he's no ordinary person who could sit in the position of Commander of the Dark Guard.

"Of course! Leave it to me! I entrust my safety to you! This journey is dangerous, so please be careful." Jia Xu stroked his beard and smiled.

He always felt exceptionally comfortable working with **.

This is precisely why he specifically wrote to Lu Feng, requesting that ** be transferred to Hanzhong.

"Rest assured, sir! The young master has ordered that you be protected at all times. In his eyes, your safety is of paramount importance!" he solemnly promised.

Inside the Wu Hou Mansion in Huang County, Donglai.

Lu Feng gently stroked the letter, muttering to himself, "Now that Jia Xu and Zhang Ji have set off for Hanzhong, this move is considered complete. As for the situation in Guanzhong, let's see how they handle it. I just hope Wenhe won't fail me."

Far from intending to eradicate Taoism, he prepared a generous gift for Zhang Lu. This gift not only supplemented Taoist theory but also perfected the pantheon of immortals, making the Taoist structure more rigorous.

Faith is like a sharp sword; if not handled properly, it may backfire. However, if used correctly, it can be transformed into a powerful tool for conquering new territories. Lu Feng's vision extends to the entire universe—if the opportunity arises and the system assists, even the myriad realms are within his grasp.

Therefore, cultural integration is of paramount importance. Looking at the southern regions of the Western Regions, the people deeply believe in gods and Buddhas. For long-term stability and peace, a profound religious doctrine and a powerful civilization are indispensable. This is a proactive measure.

"Do these genealogies of immortals and gods compiled by my husband—the Jade Emperor, the Queen Mother, the Three Pure Ones, etc.—truly exist in the world?" Cai Yan asked, her eyes filled with curiosity as she perused the documents. She had participated in the collation of these texts.

"Oh..."

Lu Feng replied with a smile, "You personally participated in the compilation of ancient texts, how could you have such a question? Do you perhaps believe that the records in the book are true?"

Cai Yan frowned slightly: "This system of records is too complete; the life stories of each immortal and deity are described in unbelievable detail. I simply cannot regard it as fiction."

"So, are these extraordinary beings real?" she pressed.

Lu Feng shook his head and smiled faintly: "I don't know the exact answer either. But logically speaking, it should exist—only in other dimensions different from our ordinary world."

Cai Yan pondered for a moment: "Indeed, miracles have never been seen in our world. But my husband's various wondrous methods seem more like the magic of immortals. General Xu Chu often says you are a banished immortal descended to earth, and I think there's quite a bit of truth to that."

Lu Fenglang smiled and embraced his wife, gently tapping her nose: "Perhaps... this guess isn't entirely wrong."

Yuan Shao already had a strong foundation, and now he had the support of powerful clans in Ji Province, as well as the devoted allegiance of gentry in Yan and Qing Provinces. Money, provisions, and troops poured in continuously, and his power expanded rapidly like a snowball. In just over a month, his army surged from over 100,000 to over 300,000, a truly terrifying force.

More importantly, Yuan Shu's usurpation of the throne unexpectedly brought benefits to Yuan Shao. Members of the Yuan clan severed ties with the arrogant Yuan Shu and instead wholeheartedly supported Yuan Shao. A large number of his former followers and officials came to his aid, making him even more powerful.

In contrast, Liu Yu, the governor of Youzhou, grew increasingly wary of Gongsun Zan due to his aggressive military campaigns. Liu Yu not only stopped supplying him with money and provisions but also took action to suppress him. Furthermore, Gongsun Zan's foundation was fundamentally weaker than Yuan Shao's, making his successive defeats inevitable.

Inside the military tent at Jieqiao, Gongsun Zan was furious: "That old bastard Liu Yu! He actually kicked us when we were down at this crucial moment! Doesn't this fool know that if our army is defeated, after Yuan Shao seizes Ji Province, his next target will be You Province?"

Months of fierce fighting had already inflicted heavy losses on him, with his younger brother Gongsun Fan killed by Ju Yi's arrow. This deep-seated hatred fueled Gongsun Zan's resolve to personally kill Yuan Shao, while Liu Yu's betrayal only intensified his resentment. The two had already harbored resentment due to their differing policies towards the Hu people, and now they were utterly irreconcilable enemies.

"Brother!" Gongsun Yue said worriedly, "Scouts report that Liu Yu, seeing our army defying orders and refusing to retreat, is already redeploying his troops. If we stand idly by, we fear we will be defeated by Liu Yu before even encountering Yuan Shao's main force!"

Tensions are high on the border of Youzhou, and the atmosphere in Youbeiping is tense. Liu Yu is secretly mobilizing troops, intending to launch a surprise attack on Gongsun Zan's stronghold.

"I have learned of this matter!" Gongsun Zan's eyes widened in anger, and he immediately issued a military order to Gongsun Yue: "Brother, quickly lead 50,000 elite troops, march day and night, and be sure to capture Ji County in the shortest possible time, kill Liu Yu, and help me unify Youzhou!"

He gripped his sword tightly and added, "Yuan Shao has the support of many gentry families in Ji Province, and the small territory of Youbeiping alone cannot withstand him. Only by integrating the strength of the entire You Province can we have a chance of victory."

Gongsun Yue, in high spirits, accepted the order and left. Tian Yu hesitated, knowing that Gongsun Zan had no other choice. Liu Yu's rash advance was tantamount to courting death.

"Xu'er, step forward." Gongsun Zan then summoned his eldest son: "You must immediately go to Black Mountain to visit Zhang Yan and explain the situation to him. If our army is defeated, Yuan Shao's next target will undoubtedly be the Black Mountain army. He is surely aware of the grudges caused by our years of plundering."

To be on the safe side, Gongsun Zan specifically ordered Tian Yu to accompany him and assist him. When Tian Yu received the order, he secretly pondered: forming an alliance with the Black Mountain Army was indeed the best course of action.

"Yes, Your Majesty!"

Gongsun Xu bowed to Gongsun Zan, then turned to Tian Yu and gave a slight nod: "I will need your continued care and guidance along the way, sir!"

"You flatter me, young master!"

Tian Yu quickly helped Gongsun Xu up and waved his hand, saying, "It's not a matter of taking care of him; it's just my duty, and I will do my best to help."

On that day, Gongsun Xu and Tian Yu led more than a hundred light cavalrymen on their journey, taking the northwest route, intending to bypass Zhuojun and other places, and go to visit Zhang Yan.

At the same time, Gongsun Yue also secretly mobilized his troops.

Just one day later, the 50,000-strong army set off under cover of night, heading straight for Ji County.

Ji County, within the governor's residence.

"My lord, are we truly going to attack Youbeiping?"

Tian Chou earnestly advised Liu Yu: "Please think it over! Although Gongsun Zan is as hateful as a jackal, Yuan Shao is the real tiger! If he swallows up Ji Province, he will not be satisfied with that and will definitely plot to seize You Province! At that time, we will all become his prey."

"Currently, with Gongsun Zan keeping Yuan Shao at bay, Youzhou can still protect itself; but if Gongsun Zan is defeated and killed, Yuan Shao's blade will surely be pointed at us!"

In his view, cutting off Gongsun Xu's retreat at this time was not a wise move.

"No need to persuade me anymore!"

Liu Yu, however, was determined. His face grim, he interrupted, "Gongsun Zan has repeatedly oppressed and extorted money and grain, and has even forcibly conscripted able-bodied men in Youbeiping and Yuyang, causing widespread suffering and resentment! If this continues unchecked, the consequences will be dire!"

"As for Yuan Shao..."

He waved his hand, his tone resolute: "He has already assured me that he will only eliminate Gongsun Zan and will never invade Youzhou!"

Such naive remarks struck Tian Chou as utterly absurd.

He wanted to offer further advice, but seeing Liu Yu's resolute expression, he finally sighed and left in silence.

—Yanzhou, the Prefectural Governor's Office of Rencheng Commandery.

Half a month later, Lu Feng returned to the area to oversee the reforms. On that day, a secret report from Youzhou arrived at his desk.

"My lord! Liu Yu and Gongsun Zan have already clashed!"

"Gongsun Zan also launched a fierce attack on Liu Yu!"

"Gongsun Xu and Tian Yu are on their way to Heishan to contact Zhang Yan, seemingly intending to form an alliance to jointly resist Yuan Shao."

Lu Yi presented the intelligence report in detail.

Lu Feng raised an eyebrow, took the silk scroll, and read it carefully. Xun You and Xi Zhicai, who were reviewing official documents, put down their pens and looked up at the same time.

"Please take a look, gentlemen." Lu Feng unfurled the scroll and showed it to them. "A dramatic change may be brewing in the lands of You and Ji."

Xun You frowned after reading the document: "How could Liu Yu destroy his own Great Wall? He cut off Gongsun's supplies first, and then attacked his rear. Does he not know that Yuan Shao is eyeing him covetously? If Youzhou loses Gongsun as a shield..." He stopped abruptly, clearly finding it hard to believe that this member of the imperial clan, who was known for his virtue, would make such a foolish move.

Xi Zhicai lightly tapped the table: "With war breaking out, Liu Yu will likely meet a bad end. If Gongsun Zan can achieve a swift victory, he might be able to buy time to rebuild the defenses of Youzhou." Turning to Lu Feng, he cupped his hands and said, "I suggest secretly providing financial assistance to Gongsun Zan to prolong his stalemate with Yuan Shao."

Xun You enthusiastically agreed: "This plan is excellent! If Yuan Shao is allowed to swallow Youzhou whole, he will be the next to covet Bingzhou." Since following Lu Feng, this talented advisor's strategies have become increasingly decisive and ruthless.

Inside the study, Lu Feng nodded slightly: "That suits me perfectly. I will immediately write a letter instructing the Youzhou secret guards and the Lu family business to secretly assist Gongsun Zan."

During the gathering, Xun You and Xi Zhicai played chess.

"In my opinion," Lu Feng put down his teacup, "Liu Yu's actions, besides stemming from his fear of Gongsun Zan, may also indicate some collusion with Yuan Shao."

"Oh?"

The black and white chess pieces both paused in mid-air. Xi Zhicai spoke first: "My lord, are you saying... Yuan Shao and Liu Yu are joining forces? How could Liu Yu not know the principle of 'if the lips are gone, the teeth will be cold'?"

"Not necessarily." Xun You stroked his long beard. "If Yuan Shao promises not to invade Youzhou..."

"Absurd!" Xi Zhicai slammed his fist on the table and stood up. "You actually believe this nonsense? Liu Yu must be senile!"

As dusk settled outside the window, the flickering candlelight cast the shadows of the three figures onto the wall.

"How pathetic and lamentable," Xi Zhicai shook his head. "Liu Yu is still basking in the afterglow of the Han Dynasty, unaware that the Yuan brothers have long since abandoned all restraint."

Lu Feng toyed with the jade pendant at his waist and sneered, "That's fine too, at least it saves Gongsun Zan from having to hold his hands tight."

"Speaking of this," Xi Zhicai suddenly lowered his voice, "Zhang Yan's troops have gradually moved to Yanmen and are in close contact with Cao Cao..."

Before he could finish speaking, Xun You suddenly slammed a chess piece onto the board: "Quickly send someone to inform Cao Cao!"

Based on this, it is speculated that Cao Cao may have sent Zhang Yan to join forces with Gongsun Zan to fight against Yuan Shao.

If Yuan Shao hadn't appointed Cao Cao as the governor of Taiyuan, how could he have so easily taken control of Bingzhou and the situation? Now the two are secretly at odds, and Cao Cao will definitely seize this opportunity to curb Yuan Shao's expansion.

"I second that opinion," Xun You replied.

"This plan is feasible." Lu Feng nodded slightly, then turned to Lu Yi and instructed, "Send a message to Lu Shijiu of Bingzhou, and have him find a way to let Cao Cao know about this."

"Yes, sir." Lu Yi accepted the order.

At the same time, Lu Feng handed over a letter addressed to Lu Shisan, the commander of the Youzhou secret guards: "Give this to Old Thirteen; he knows how to act. Remember, do not reveal your identity, and the Chamber of Commerce must be kept especially secret."

"Understood." Lu Yi took the letter and took his leave.

"In this way, the situation in Ji and You provinces is more favorable to us," Xun You said with a smile. The situation is developing in a favorable direction, thanks to Lu Feng's foresight and meticulous planning, and the indispensable role of the secret guards.

Xi Zhicai added, "As long as Gongsun Zan's actions go smoothly, his stalemate with Yuan Shao can last at least a year. At that time, we can then seize the provinces of Xu and Yu, and then plot to take over the lands of Ji and You."

Their plan was to seize a prefecture in Ji Province as a base, and then consolidate their power in Xu and Yu before launching a full-scale attack. However, all of this depended on the plan proceeding smoothly, as the situation was unpredictable.

"I hope so."

Okay, I will follow your instructions.

Lu Feng nodded firmly and said, "If that's possible, all the better! We must achieve this goal!"

"The most important thing right now is to cultivate talent! By the way, has Kang Cheng arrived yet? How are the preparations at Yanzhou Academy going? How is the news of enrollment spreading?"

This is what Lu Feng cares about most.

Without sufficient talent, his subsequent conquest of Xuzhou and Yuzhou, as well as the implementation of new policies and reforms, will be difficult to achieve.

Xun You immediately reported back: "Lord Kangcheng arrived yesterday. The main structure of the Yanzhou Academy was completed three days ago, with only some details remaining to be perfected. It is expected to be fully completed within half a month and will not affect enrollment or the start of the school year."

"As for recruitment and publicity, it goes without saying in Yanzhou and Qingzhou, but in other prefectures and counties, secret guards and the Lu Clan Chamber of Commerce have been dispatched to conduct it covertly. However, the results are still unknown."

Now, the powerful clans and gentry in various regions are aware of Lu Feng's new policies, and many still harbor hostility towards him.