Reborn Liu Bei: I'll lead this Three Kingdoms to victory!

Ten days after the pacification of Huainan, Lü Bu's messenger arrived.

It wasn't Chen Gong, it was Lü Bu himself.

Yes, Lü Bu came in person, leading five hundred cavalrymen, and charged directly to the outskirts of Shouchun City.

"Liu Bei! Come out and speak!" Lu Bu shouted outside the city, his halberd gleaming coldly in the sunlight.

Liu Bei was in the government office listening to Zhuge Liang report on the household registration statistics of Huainan—a seven-year-old child who could do the math faster than the old officials.

Upon hearing that Lü Bu had arrived, Liu Bei laughed: "Perfect timing. Kongming, shall we go and see what it means to be 'brave but reckless'?"

"The student is willing to go." Zhuge Liang put down the bamboo slips.

On the city wall, Lü Bu rode Red Hare with imposing grandeur. But the five hundred cavalrymen behind him were exhausted, clearly having galloped all the way here.

"Brother Fengxian," Liu Bei bowed from the city wall, "you've come from afar, you must be tired. Why not come into the city and have a drink?"

"Enough nonsense!" Lü Bu roared. "What happened to the promised Governor of Huainan? How did he become the Prefect of Lujiang? And on equal footing with that brat Sun Ce!"

"Brother Fengxian, you misunderstand." Liu Bei's smile remained unchanged. "The position of Governor of Huainan requires an appointment from the imperial court. I have already submitted a memorial to the court, but as you know, Li Jue and Guo Si control the government in Chang'an and are slow to act. Therefore, I will temporarily appoint you as the Prefect of Lujiang, and we will make adjustments after the imperial decree is issued."

"Nonsense!" Lu Bu exclaimed, disbelieving. "Liu Bei, are you playing me?!"

"How could I dare?" Liu Bei replied. "If Brother Fengxian doesn't believe me, you can send someone to Chang'an to inquire. However..."

"But what?"

"However, the court is poor right now, and things cost money," Liu Bei said in a low voice. "I've already sent a thousand taels of gold to Chang'an to smooth things over. But Li Jue has a big appetite, so I'm afraid... we'll have to add more."

Lu Bu's expression softened slightly: "How much more do you want?"

"At least three thousand gold pieces," Liu Bei sighed. "But Brother Fengxian isn't exactly flush with cash right now... How about this, I'll lend Brother Fengxian two thousand, and Brother Fengxian can figure out the rest himself."

"Borrow?" Lü Bu frowned. "How will you return it?"

"No rush," Liu Bei said. "Once Brother Fengxian becomes the Governor of Huainan, we can deduct the amount from the Huainan taxes gradually."

Lu Bu was tempted.

He lent him money to buy an official position; Liu Bei... that's quite a generous guy.

"What about Sun Ce...?"

"Sun Ce is just the governor of Wu Commandery, how can he compare to Brother Fengxian?" Liu Bei said with disdain. "Brother Fengxian is the Marquis of Wen, appointed by the imperial court. What is Sun Ce? He's just a commoner."

These words struck a chord with Lü Bu.

What he cares about most is his status and position.

"Alright!" Lü Bu nodded. "Then I'll await the imperial decree. But... what about Lujiang..."

"The entire territory of Lujiang belongs to Brother Fengxian," Liu Bei said generously. "Furthermore, I will 'lend' Brother Fengxian another five thousand shi of grain and ten thousand sets of weapons and armor. What do you say?"

Lu Bu was completely speechless.

"Xuande...you're so kind! I misunderstood you before!"

"We're brothers, no need for such formalities," Liu Bei said with a smile. "Brother Fengxian, how about we go into town for a drink?"

"I'm not drinking anymore!" Lü Bu waved his hand. "I'm going back to Lujiang now to reorganize my troops and await the imperial decree!"

After saying that, he turned his horse around and led his troops away.

Watching Lü Bu's departing figure, Zhuge Liang asked, "Teacher, did you really give him that much?"

"Here you go," Liu Bei nodded, "but it will be old grain and old weapons. And... there are conditions."

"What are the conditions?"

"The condition is that he has to 'help' us deal with Sun Ce." Liu Bei's eyes gleamed with cunning.

No sooner had Lü Bu left than Sun Ce's messenger arrived.

It was Zhou Yu who arrived.

Yes, it's the Zhou Yu who famously caught the error in the music. He's only seventeen, but he already exudes charisma and speaks with remarkable eloquence.

"Lord Liu," Zhou Yu bowed, "Bo Fu sent me to inquire: Why did Lü Bu occupy Lujiang?"

"Please sit down, Gongjin," Liu Bei said warmly. "This matter... is a long story."

"I wish to hear the details."

"Lü Bu was granted the title of Marquis of Wen by the imperial court and also participated in the campaign against Yuan Shu," Liu Bei explained. "According to the rules of the court, those who have rendered meritorious service should be rewarded. Letting him temporarily govern Lujiang is also a temporary measure."

"That Wu County..."

"Wu Commandery belongs to Bofu, and no one can take it away," Liu Bei said solemnly. "I have already recommended Bofu to be the General Who Subdues Rebels and to take charge of the affairs of Yangzhou. Once the imperial decree is issued, Bofu will be the rightful ruler of Yangzhou."

Zhou Yu's eyes lit up: "The Governor of Yangzhou?"

"That's right." Liu Bei nodded. "However... Yangzhou hasn't been completely conquered yet. Liu Yao is still in Danyang, and Wang Lang is still in Kuaiji. If Bo Fu wants to secure his position as Governor of Yangzhou, he must first conquer these places."

"Of course," Zhou Yu said. "Bo Fu is already preparing to attack Liu Yao. It's just... supplies and weapons..."

"I'll provide it," Liu Bei readily agreed. "Five thousand shi of grain, two thousand sets of armor, and five hundred warhorses. In addition, I can send a naval force to assist Bo Fu in crossing the river."

Zhou Yu was overjoyed: "I am deeply grateful for your help, my lord!"

"However..." Liu Bei changed the subject, "There's something I need Bo Fu's help with."

"Please speak, Your Excellency."

"Lu Bu is a fickle and unpredictable man," Liu Bei said. "He has now occupied Lujiang, and I fear he may covet Wu Commandery. When Bo Fu attacks Liu Yao, we must guard against a sneak attack by Lu Bu. If we could... find an opportunity to give him a warning, that would be even better."

Zhou Yu understood.

This is a case of using someone else to do the dirty work.

"I understand," Zhou Yu nodded. "Bo Fu will keep an eye on Lü Bu."

"That's good," Liu Bei said with a smile. "By the way, Gongjin, I've heard that you are proficient in music and skilled in military training. I have a book here called 'New Methods of Military Training,' which was compiled by Zheng Xuan from ancient texts. I'll give it to you; it might be useful."

He handed over a scroll of silk—which was actually made up by Liu Bei based on modern military training concepts, but packaged as an ancient book to make it seem high-class.

Zhou Yu took it, glanced at it a few times, and his eyes lit up: "This...this is an ancient method?"

"It is said to have been passed down by a descendant of Sun Tzu," Liu Bei lied without changing his expression. "I have read it and find it quite reasonable, but I do not know how to train troops, so keeping it in my possession would be a waste. Gongjin is a man who understands military affairs, and he would be perfect for this task."

"Thank you, Your Excellency!" Zhou Yu bowed deeply.

After seeing Zhou Yu off, Zhuge Liang asked, "Teacher, what about the 'New Methods of Military Training'...?"

"I made it up," Liu Bei laughed, "but the method in it is indeed useful. Zhou Yu is a smart man; he understood it immediately. He used my method, which means he owes me a favor. It will be useful in the future."

"So Sun Ce attacked Liu Yao..."

"Let him fight," Liu Bei said. "Sun Ce is brave, and Zhou Yu is resourceful. It won't be difficult for them to defeat Liu Yao. After they've finished fighting, they'll be severely weakened. Then we can slowly plot against Jiangdong."

Zhuge Liang seemed to be deep in thought: "Teacher, is this... using one tiger to devour another?"

"No," Liu Bei shook his head, "It would be like raising a tiger to cause trouble—but I am a beast tamer, and I know how to control a tiger."

The day after Zhou Yu left, Cao Cao's messenger arrived.

This time, it was Xun Yu who came.

"Mr. Wenruo!" Liu Bei personally came out to greet him. "What brings you here?"

Xun Yu, in his early forties, was gentle and refined, but his eyes were deep: "I have come to congratulate Lord Liu on pacifying Huainan and annihilating the rebels."

"You're too kind, sir." Liu Bei invited Xun Yu into the government office. "I'm just doing my duty as a subject."

"You are too modest, my lord," Xun Yu said. "However... I heard that you have divided Huainan among Lü Bu and Sun Ce?"

"It's not a division, it's temporary management," Liu Bei corrected. "The imperial decree hasn't been issued yet, so I can only let them manage it for now. We'll make further arrangements once the imperial decree is issued."

"And what about the magistrate himself..."

"I only need the two commanderies of Shouchun and Jiujiang," Liu Bei said. "That should be enough."

A look of doubt flashed in Xun Yu's eyes.

Liu Bei conquered Huainan, yet only occupied two commanderies? That doesn't make sense.

"Your Excellency is truly virtuous," Xun Yu probed, "but... Lü Bu and Sun Ce are neither benevolent men. Letting them occupy Huainan might..."

"I'm afraid things will get chaotic?" Liu Bei replied. "Don't worry, Mr. Wenruo, I have a plan. Lü Bu is in Lujiang, and Sun Ce is in Wu Commandery. They are separated by the Yangtze River, so they can't fight each other even if they wanted to. Besides... what they need most right now is food and supplies, and they all have to rely on me for them. If they dare to cause trouble, I will cut off their food supply."

Xun Yu understood.

This is like using grain and fodder to command the feudal lords.

"Your Excellency is wise," Xun Yu praised. "However... Cao Cao has instructed me to ask: Now that Yuan Shu has been defeated, what are Your Excellency's plans next?"

"Let them rest and recuperate," Liu Bei said. "Years of war have brought hardship to the people. I intend to implement new policies in the three provinces, encourage agriculture and sericulture, and develop water conservancy projects, so that the people can have a chance to breathe."

"What about the North?"

"The North?" Liu Bei feigned ignorance. "With Yuan Shao in charge, the North is quite stable. I have nothing to worry about."

Xun Yu stared at Liu Bei for a long time.

"Does Your Excellency truly think so?"

"Otherwise what?" Liu Bei laughed. "Yuan Shao's family has held high office for four generations, and he dominates Hebei with an army of 100,000. How dare I, with only three prefectures, contend with him? I only seek to protect my territory and ensure the safety of my people."

That's an understatement.

But Xun Yu didn't believe a single word of it.

"Then... what if Yuan Shao marches south?" Xun Yu asked.

"Then we have no choice but to fight," Liu Bei sighed. "However, I've heard that Cao Cao and Yuan Shao have a grudge? If Yuan Shao marches south, Cao Cao won't just stand by and watch, will he?"

Xun Yu felt a chill run down his spine.

This is an attempt to drag Cao Cao into the mess.

"Lord Cao...I will certainly do my utmost to serve the Han Dynasty," Xun Yu said vaguely.

"That's good," Liu Bei said with a smile. "With Cao Cao keeping Yuan Shao in the south, he won't dare to launch a full-scale southward offensive. I can finally catch my breath."

Xun Yu remained silent.

This Liu Bei, he's calculated everything.

"Mr. Wenruo," Liu Bei said again, "I have another request."

"Please speak, Your Excellency."

"I intend to build an Imperial Academy in Xuzhou, and recruit scholars from all over the country to teach classics and military strategy," Liu Bei said. "I have heard that the Xun family of Yingchuan has many talented people. Could you send some of them to serve as teachers?"

Xun Yu said, "Please allow me to go back and communicate with the elders of my clan." If there is nothing else, I will take my leave.

After seeing Xun Yu off, Xu Shu said, "My lord, are you trying to poach the entire Xun clan of Yingchuan?"

"We'll dig as much as we can," Liu Bei said with a smile. "Xun Yu is Cao Cao's chief strategist, so we can't poach him. But the others from the Xun family... we can try. Even if we can't poach them, it'll be good to make a good connection."

"What about Cao Cao's side..."

"Cao Cao is too busy right now," Liu Bei said. "He has to guard against Yuan Shao and keep an eye on us. He doesn't have the energy to deal with these trivial matters."

Just then, Jian Yong hurried in.

"My lord, we have just received news: Yuan Shao... has headed south."

The news came from Youzhou.

After Yuan Shao defeated Gongsun Zan, he rested for three months before leading an army of 100,000 south to attack Qingzhou.

"So soon?" Liu Bei frowned. "Yuan Shao is... impatient."

"My lord," Guan Yu said, "Qingzhou only has Zilong's 20,000 troops, I'm afraid we can't hold it."

"I know," Liu Bei said, walking up to the map. "But we can't retreat now. Huainan has just been pacified, and Lü Bu and Sun Ce are eyeing it covetously. If we retreat, they will pounce on us."

"What should we do then?" Zhang Fei asked anxiously. "We can't just watch Qingzhou fall!"

"Of course not." Liu Bei pondered for a moment. "Here's what we'll do, Yun Chang, you lead 10,000 troops back to reinforce Qingzhou. Remember, don't engage in a direct confrontation; focus on defense. Qingzhou is a well-fortified city with ample supplies; it should hold out for three months without any problem."

"And over here..."

"I'll take care of things here," Liu Bei said. "Yide, Zijing, and...Yuanzhi, that's enough."

"My lord," Xu Shu said, "why don't we... seek help from Cao Cao?"

"Ask for help?" Liu Bei shook his head. "Cao Cao would love for us to weaken both Yuan Shao and Cao Cao. However... we can 'ask' him for help."

"How should I invite you?"

"In the name of the imperial court," Liu Bei said, "Yuan Shao's southward advance is an invasion of our borders. Cao Cao is the General Who Guards the East of the imperial court, and he should rightfully send troops to 'punish the rebel.' We can petition Cao Cao to be appointed 'Grand General' and let him go to block Yuan Shao."

Would Cao Cao agree?

"Yes," Liu Bei said confidently. "Because if Yuan Shao takes Qingzhou, Yanzhou will be next. Cao Cao isn't stupid; he knows the principle of 'if the lips are gone, the teeth will be cold.'"

"What about the imperial court..."

"I'll send a letter to the court," Liu Bei said. "Although Li Jue and Guo Si are scoundrels, they don't want Yuan Shao to become too powerful. Recommending Cao Cao as Grand General, so that they can check and balance each other, is in the court's interest."

"Our lord is a man of great foresight."

"That's not enough." Liu Bei looked at Zhuge Liang. "Kongming, what are your thoughts?"

Zhuge Liang, who had been listening attentively, finally spoke up: "I believe that besides Cao Cao, we could also contact... the Black Mountain bandits."

"Black Mountain Bandits?" Everyone was taken aback.

"That's right," Zhuge Liang said. "Zhang Yan, the Black Mountain bandit, is entrenched in the Taihang Mountains and frequently harasses Ji Province. With Yuan Shao marching south, Ji Province is vulnerable. If Zhang Yan takes the opportunity to send troops, Yuan Shao will surely return to his aid."

"But Zhang Yan is a thief..."

"Even thieves can be granted amnesty," Zhuge Liang said earnestly. "Teacher, you can recommend Zhang Yan to be appointed General Who Pacifies the Difficulties, allowing him to legally occupy the Taihang Mountains. The condition is... to harass Yuan Shao's rear."

Liu Bei's eyes lit up.

That's a vicious move.

"Kongming, who taught you that?"

"It was my own idea," Zhuge Liang said. "Historical records state that Emperor Gaozu once enfeoffed Peng Yue as the King of Liang, ordering him to harass Xiang Yu's rear. I was just... applying what I learned."

"Good!" Liu Bei praised. "Then let's do it this way! Xianhe, send someone to the Taihang Mountains to contact Zhang Yan. We can discuss the terms; as long as he's willing to send troops, we can talk about anything."

"clear!"

"Furthermore," Liu Bei added, "send someone to Liaodong to contact Gongsun Du. Tell him that if Yuan Shao unifies Hebei, he will be next. We can form an alliance and attack Yuan Shao from both the east and the west."

Will Gongsun Du agree?

"Yes," Liu Bei said, "because he has no choice. If Yuan Shao destroys us, he'll be next."

After arranging everything, Liu Bei looked at the map and sighed with emotion.

In chaotic times, you can find enemies everywhere, but you can also find allies everywhere.

It all depends on how you use it.

Ten days later, Zhang Yan's reply arrived.

It wasn't a letter, but a messenger—Du Chang.

"Lord Liu," Du Chang was a rough and straightforward man, "My general said that we can send troops, but he requires three things: 100,000 shi of grain, 10,000 sets of armor, and... the official position of Governor of Bingzhou."

They have quite an appetite.

"Food and armor can be provided," Liu Bei said, "but the governor of Bing Province... can only be appointed by the imperial court, I cannot make that decision."

"Then submit a memorial," Du Changdao said. "If Your Excellency submits a memorial, the court... Your Excellency will have a way to handle it."

Liu Bei smiled.

Zhang Yan is not stupid.

"Very well, I will submit my report." Liu Bei nodded. "However, General Zhang must send out his troops first. Once Yuan Shao has retreated, we will provide him with all the provisions, armor, and official positions he deserves."

"Words are not enough."

"Then what do you want?"

"Let's put it in writing," Du Changdao said. "It'll be in black and white, with a signature and fingerprint."

"Alright," Liu Bei readily agreed. "However, General Zhang must also sign a written agreement: to send troops to harass Yuan Shao's rear, tying down at least 20,000 troops for three months."

"make a deal!"

The two signed and sealed the document.

After seeing Du Chang off, Xu Shu said, "My lord, Zhang Yan is a fickle man. What if he takes the goods but doesn't send troops..."

"That would be even better," Liu Bei laughed. "If he doesn't send troops, we'll have a reason to attack him. The Taihang Mountains are a treacherous terrain, and a direct confrontation wouldn't be easy. But if he breaks his promise first, then if we attack him, everyone in the world will say we're in the right."

"That armor of grain..."

"Give him half," Liu Bei said. "The rest will be given after the matter is settled. If he really has the ability to hold back Yuan Shao's 20,000 troops for three months, he's worth the price."

"My lord is very astute."

Five days later, Cao Cao's reply arrived.

It wasn't an official document; it was a confidential letter.

"My dear brother Xuande: I am unworthy of the title of Grand General. However, Yuan Shao has invaded our borders from the south, and as a Han subject, I must serve him. I have already dispatched Miaocai (Xiahou Yuan) with 30,000 troops to the north to assist you in defending Qingzhou. Furthermore, I have heard that you wish to establish an Imperial Academy, which is a great undertaking. I have a strategist under my command named Xi Zhicai, who is learned and talented. I would like to recommend him to you for a teaching position. I hope you will not decline."

After Liu Bei finished reading it, he handed it to everyone.

"Cao Cao... really sent troops?" Zhang Fei asked incredulously. "Is he really that kind?"

"It's not out of kindness, it's a scheme," Xu Shu said. "Xiahou Yuan is leading 30,000 troops north, ostensibly to help us, but actually... to seize territory. Once we defeat Yuan Shao, those 30,000 troops probably won't leave."

"Should we still let him come?"

"Let it go," Liu Bei said. "Because we need these 30,000 soldiers. Besides... once Xiahou Yuan arrives, he'll have to obey my orders. He can't cause any trouble on my territory."

"That Xi Zhicai..."

"Xi Zhicai is a talented man," Liu Bei said. "Cao Cao sent him here, firstly to show goodwill, and secondly... perhaps Xi Zhicai is unwell and wants him to come to Xuzhou to recuperate. Let's accept him and treat him well. He will be useful in the future."

"What's it for?"

"Xi Zhicai is from Yingchuan, the same hometown as Xun Yu, Guo Jia, and others," Liu Bei said. "If we treat Xi Zhicai well, the scholars of Yingchuan will have a good impression of us. It will be much easier to recruit talent in the future."

Everyone was impressed.

My lord really... has thought of everything.

Xiahou Yuan's 30,000 troops took half a month to reach the border of Xuzhou.

Then... it stopped.

"My lord," a scout reported, "General Xiahou says that supplies are insufficient and requests provisions from Xuzhou."

"As expected," Liu Bei sneered. "They come here demanding grain. Give it to them, but only enough for ten days. Tell them the rest will come from the Qingzhou treasury when they arrive in Qingzhou."

"General Xiahou also said... the soldiers are exhausted and need rest."

"They can rest, but not in Xuzhou," Liu Bei said. "Let them go to Pengcheng, and I will personally 'treat' them."

"yes!"

Outside Pengcheng, at Xiahou Yuan's main camp.

Liu Bei arrived with Zhang Fei, Xu Shu, and... Zhuge Liang.

"General Miaocai," Liu Bei said warmly, "you've come from afar, you must be tired!"

Xiahou Yuan, in his forties, was a burly and fierce general, but not very eloquent: "Lord Liu, Mengde sent me to help you, but the provisions..."

"The provisions are ready," Liu Bei interrupted. "However, General Miaocai, we need to discuss first how to use these 30,000 troops."

"Of course I will obey your orders, Lord," Xiahou Yuan said. "Mengde said that once we arrive in Qingzhou, we will obey your orders."

"Alright." Liu Bei nodded. "My first order is: divide the troops."

"Splitting the troops?"

"Yes," Liu Bei said. "General Miaocai will lead 10,000 troops to reinforce Jinan. The other 20,000 troops will be commanded by my generals and will be stationed in Beihai and Donglai."

Xiahou Yuan frowned: "This...isn't this inappropriate? Dividing the troops will weaken them..."

"Yuan Shao's army of 100,000 is also divided into three forces to attack," Liu Bei said. "Jinan, Beihai, and Donglai are three directions. If we divide our forces to defend, it will be a perfect match. If we combine our forces in one place, the other two places will be vulnerable."

Xiahou Yuan thought about it and felt it made sense: "Then... I'll listen to you, my lord."

"Furthermore," Liu Bei said, "Qingzhou is currently in a state of war, and all provisions and military equipment are being centrally allocated by the state government. General Miaocai, if you need anything, just ask Zilong. He will do his best to fulfill your request."

"Zhao Yun?"

"That's right," Liu Bei said with a smile. "Zilong is now the Governor of Qingzhou, in charge of all military and political affairs in Qingzhou. When General Miaocai arrives in Qingzhou, he will have to listen to him."

Xiahou Yuan's expression was not good.

Make him listen to Zhao Yun? Zhao Yun is only in his twenties!

"Is this Mengde's order?" Xiahou Yuan asked.

"This is a wartime expedient," Liu Bei said solemnly. "A general in the field may disobey the emperor's orders. Besides, Zilong is familiar with the terrain of Qingzhou and understands the enemy's situation. Listening to him will increase our chances of victory."

Xiahou Yuan remained silent.

After a long pause, he nodded: "Alright... I'll listen to Governor Zhao."

Liu Bei laughed: "That's good. Come, let's drink! I brought some Youzhou liquor for the soldiers, plenty to go around!"

That evening, a grand banquet was held.

Xiahou Yuan got completely drunk.

Zhang Fei secretly asked Liu Bei, "Brother, will this... work?"

"It has to work out, even if it doesn't work out," Liu Bei said in a low voice. "We can't let Cao Cao's 30,000 troops stick together. If they're separated, they'll be easier to control."

"That Xiahou Yuan..."

"Xiahou Yuan is a fierce general, but not a commander-in-chief," Liu Bei said. "He's fine for guarding cities, but if you want him to cause trouble in Qingzhou... he doesn't have the brains for it."

"But what if..."

"There's no 'what if'," Liu Bei said, turning to Zhuge Liang beside him. "Kongming, what do you think?"

Zhuge Liang, who had been observing Xiahou Yuan, finally spoke: "General Xiahou is brave, but impetuous. I think we can provoke him into battle and let him clash head-on with Yuan Shao's army. If we win, it will be our achievement. If we lose... it will also be a loss for Cao Cao."

Liu Bei laughed loudly: "Kongming, you're becoming more and more like me."

"I dare not," Zhuge Liang said earnestly. "I am merely... trying to share my teacher's burdens."

Ten days later, the battle report arrived.

Yuan Shao's army of 100,000 men attacked Qingzhou in three routes:

The eldest son, Yuan Tan, led 30,000 troops to attack Jinan; General Yan Liang led 30,000 troops to attack Beihai; and General Wen Chou led 30,000 troops to attack Donglai.

Menacing.

"My lord," Xu Shu said, looking at the battle report, "Yuan Shao is planning to take Qingzhou in one fell swoop."

"Then let him try." Liu Bei sneered. "Send orders to Zilong: defend Jinan to the death, hold Beihai firmly, and Donglai... can be 'defeat'."

"Defeat?" The crowd was puzzled.

"Yes, defeat," Liu Bei said. "Wen Chou is brave, but lacks strategy. Let the garrison of Donglai feign defeat to lure him in. Then... we'll trap him and beat him."

"But Donglai seems to have lost..."

"Donglai is by the sea, so it doesn't matter if we lose it," Liu Bei said. "We have a navy, and we can take it back at any time. But if Wen Chou penetrates deep into Qingzhou, we can surround and annihilate him. If we can kill Wen Chou, Yuan Shao's army will surely be thrown into chaos."

"Brilliant plan!" Xu Shu exclaimed.

"However," Liu Bei added, "this must be kept from Xiahou Yuan. If he finds out, he will definitely object."

Why?

"Because he is Cao Cao's man," Liu Bei said. "Cao Cao hopes that we and Yuan Shao will both suffer heavy losses, and he doesn't want us to win too easily. Therefore, if Xiahou Yuan knows the plan, he might 'accidentally' leak it to Yuan Shao."

Everyone felt a chill run down their spines.

"That..."

"Therefore, the command of Qingzhou must be firmly held in Zilong's hands," Liu Bei said solemnly. "Send a secret order to Zilong: If Xiahou Yuan does anything disloyal, he may be executed first and reported later."

"yes!"

After arranging the battle in Qingzhou, Liu Bei looked at Zhuge Liang.

"Kongming, there are now three battles: Qingzhou against Yuan Shao, Lujiang against Sun Ce (potentially), and... our battle against Cao Cao (covertly). If you were in charge, how would you coordinate them?"

Zhuge Liang thought for a moment and said, "In my opinion, we should prioritize. Yuan Shao is the primary threat and we must deal with him with all our might. Sun Ce is a secondary threat and can be appeased. Cao Cao... is a potential threat and we need to be wary of him, but we should not turn against him."

"Specifically?"

"Our strategy against Yuan Shao should be primarily defensive, waiting for an opportunity to counterattack," Zhuge Liang said. "Qingzhou is well-fortified and has ample supplies; it should hold out for three months. After three months, Yuan Shao's army will be exhausted, and we can join forces with Zhang Yan and Gongsun Du to launch a counterattack on Jizhou."

"What about Sun Ce?"

"We should lure Sun Ce with benefits," Zhuge Liang said. "What Sun Ce desires most right now is Jiangdong. We can recommend him for the position of Governor of Yangzhou and support him in attacking Liu Yao and Wang Lang. Once he takes Jiangdong, he will be severely weakened and unable to look north for a short period of time."

"To Cao Cao?"

"Treat Cao Cao with courtesy, but be wary of him," Zhuge Liang said. "When Xi Zhicai arrives, treat him well. Xiahou Yuan is in Qingzhou, so keep a close watch on him. In addition, we can secretly contact anti-Cao forces in the court to create trouble for Cao Cao."

After listening, Liu Bei remained silent for a long time.

"Kongming," he said slowly, "you are...really only seven years old this year?"

"The student is eight years old (by the traditional Chinese age reckoning)," Zhuge Liang said earnestly.

"Eight years old..." Liu Bei smiled wryly, "When I was eight, I was still playing in the mud."

"Teacher, you flatter me," Zhuge Liang said. "I've simply read more books and thought more about things."

"Alright, alright." Liu Bei patted him on the shoulder. "From today onwards, you will come to my study every day to watch me handle political and military affairs. If you have any thoughts, feel free to speak them."

"Yes, sir."

A few days later, Xi Zhicai arrived.

He didn't come alone; he was carried in—he was very ill, coughing up blood, and was skin and bones.

"Mr. Zhicai!" Liu Bei personally came out to greet him. Seeing Xi Zhicai's condition, his heart ached. "Quickly, carry him inside! Get the best doctor!"

Xi Zhicai weakly waved his hand: "My lord... there's no need to trouble yourself... Zhicai... doesn't have long to live..."

"Nonsense!" Liu Bei grasped his hand. "Sir, you're only in your early thirties, in the prime of your life. Take good care of yourself, and you'll surely recover."

He arranged for Xi Zhicai to stay in the best room, assigned someone to take care of him, and hired the best doctor in Xuzhou.

But the doctor examined it and shook his head: "Tuberculosis, late stage...at most...three months."

Liu Bei remained silent.

Historically, Xi Zhicai died young, but unexpectedly... he couldn't escape it either.

"Use the best medicine, regardless of the cost," Liu Bei told the doctor. "Delay it as long as possible."

"yes..."

Xi Zhicai was recuperating in Xuzhou, and Liu Bei visited him every day and chatted with him.

They discussed classical texts, military strategy, and the overall situation.

Although Xi Zhicai was seriously ill, he was clear-headed and had unique insights.

"My lord..." Xi Zhicai suddenly said one day, "Zhicai... has something to tell you."

"Please speak, sir."

"Lord Cao...is a man of great talent and ambition, but...he is too suspicious." Xi Zhicai coughed a few times. "If Your Excellency wishes to succeed, you need to...recruit more talented people, but...you also need to...guard against internal traitors."

"Why do you say that, sir?"

"Zhi Cai served under Cao Cao for many years," Xi Zhi Cai said breathlessly. "Cao Cao was capable of using people, but he didn't completely trust them. Strategists like Xun Yu and Cheng Yu checked and balanced each other. It was his relatives like Xiahou Dun and Cao Ren who were his true confidants."

Liu Bei nodded: "I understand."

"Your Excellency and Cao Cao... will inevitably clash sooner or later," Xi Zhicai said. "But... not now. Now... we must unite to deal with Yuan Shao."

"Sir, do you think we can win?"

"Yes," Xi Zhicai affirmed. "Yuan Shao... is outwardly lenient but inwardly suspicious, fond of scheming but indecisive. His advisors... each harbor their own ulterior motives. Yan Liang and Wen Chou... are brave but lack strategy. If you, my lord, can... kill these two generals, Yuan Shao's army... will surely collapse."

This coincided with Liu Bei's idea.

"Thank you for your guidance, Mr. Xie."

"My lord..." Xi Zhicai looked at Liu Bei, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes, "Zhicai... has a favor to ask..."

"Please speak, sir."

"Zhicai...after he dies...can he be buried in Xuzhou?" Xi Zhicai asked. "Zhicai...doesn't want to return to Yingchuan..."

Liu Bei felt a pang of pain in his heart.

Is Xi Zhicai... disappointed in Cao Cao?

"Very well," Liu Bei said solemnly. "If anything happens to you, sir, I will bury you with the respect due to a teacher, erect a monument and inscribe your biography so that future generations will remember you."

Xi Zhicai smiled: "Thank you... Your Excellency..."

Three days later, Xi Zhicai passed away.

Liu Bei buried him with the respect due to a teacher and personally wrote the epitaph: "Tomb of Xi Junzhi, the late military advisor of the Han Dynasty."

When the news reached Yanzhou, Cao Cao remained silent for a long time before sighing, "Xuande... treats his soldiers so well, I am no match for him."

Xun Yu, standing to the side, had a strange look in his eyes.

Ten days after Xi Zhicai's death, news of the battle in Qingzhou arrived.

A great victory!

Wen Chou led his army deep into Donglai, but was lured into a valley by Zhao Yun, where ambushes sprang up and surrounded and annihilated him.

Wen Chou fought valiantly to the death, and of his 30,000 troops, more than half were killed or wounded, while the rest surrendered.

"Excellent!" Liu Bei slammed his hand on the table. "Zilong, you did a wonderful job!"

"My lord," Xu Shu said, "with Wen Chou dead, Yuan Shao's army will surely be thrown into chaos. We can launch a counterattack."

"No," Liu Bei shook his head. "Let Zilong continue to defend. Yuan Shao has lost a great general and will surely retaliate. When his army is pressing in and exhausted, we will join forces with Zhang Yan and Gongsun Du to launch a three-pronged attack."

"That Xiahou Yuan..."

"As for Xiahou Yuan, have him 'volunteer for battle'," Liu Bei sneered. "Doesn't he want to gain merit? Let him fight Yan Liang. Tell Zilong to secretly 'assist,' but let Xiahou Yuan 'reap all the credit.'"

Why is that?

"Because I want to make Cao Cao and Yuan Shao a complete enemy," Liu Bei said. "If Xiahou Yuan kills Yan Liang, Yuan Shao will hate Cao Cao to the bone. When they fight to the death, we can reap the benefits."

"clever!"

Sure enough, Xiahou Yuan panicked when he heard that Wen Chou had been killed by Zhao Yun.

"Commander Zhao!" Xiahou Yuan found Zhao Yun. "Let me handle the next one! I'll take care of Yan Liang!"

Following Liu Bei's instructions, Zhao Yun feigned difficulty, saying, "Yan Liang is brave and fierce, no less so than Wen Chou. General Xiahou..."

"You look down on me?!" Xiahou Yuan roared. "How could I, Xiahou Miaocai, be afraid of a mere Yan Liang!"

"Well... alright then," Zhao Yun reluctantly agreed, "but you must follow my orders."

"you say!"

"Yan Liang is currently outside Beihai City. After three days of siege, his soldiers are exhausted," Zhao Yun said. "General Xiahou can lead his 10,000 troops in a surprise attack tonight. I will lead the army to provide support."

"Good!" Xiahou Yuan exclaimed excitedly, "Let's make our move tonight!"

That night, Xiahou Yuan launched a surprise attack on Yan Liang's camp.

Yan Liang was indeed brave and fought hastily, managing to fight Xiahou Yuan to a draw.

But Zhao Yun led his troops out from the flank, unleashing a hail of arrows.

Yan Liang was shot by an arrow and killed by Xiahou Yuan with a single blow.

The news sent shockwaves throughout the world.

Yan Liang and Wen Chou, two of Yuan Shao's most formidable generals, both died within ten days.

Moreover, they were all killed by "Cao Cao's generals".

Yuan Shao was furious.

"Cao Cao! Liu Bei! I am your sworn enemy!"

Shouchun, the prefectural governor's residence.

Liu Bei received the battle report and smiled.

"My lord," Xu Shu said, "now, Yuan Shao and Cao Cao have completely turned against each other."

"That's not enough," Liu Bei said. "We need to make them fight. Send the order to Zhang Yan and Gongsun Du: it's time to make your move."

"yes!"

Two weeks later, the news came:

Zhang Yan led the Black Mountain Army out of the Taihang Mountains and successively captured three cities in Jizhou.

Gongsun Du led troops from Liaodong to attack Youzhou.

Yuan Shao's rear was on fire, forcing him to divide his troops to return and provide reinforcements.

The pressure on Qingzhou has been greatly reduced.

"My lord," Jian Yong said with a smile, "Yuan Shao is in a real bind now."

"That's not enough," Liu Bei said, looking at the map. "We need to add fuel to the fire. Send men to Ye City to spread rumors: Cao Cao has allied with us and wants to divide up Hebei."

"This...is too fake, isn't it?"

"Whether it's true or not is not important," Liu Bei said. "What's important is whether Yuan Shao believes it or not. He has just lost two of his generals, and his rear is in turmoil. He's in a time of great suspicion. He'd rather believe such rumors."

"Understood."

After arranging everything, Liu Bei walked out of his study and saw Zhuge Liang practicing swordsmanship in the courtyard.

The eight-year-old child's swordsmanship is already quite impressive.

"Kongming," Liu Bei called out, "Are you tired?"

"Not tired." Zhuge Liang sheathed his sword. "Teacher, the battle in Qingzhou... is it almost over?"

"Yes." Liu Bei nodded. "Yuan Shao won't last much longer. Once he retreats, we can free up our hands to deal with Lü Bu and Sun Ce."

"And then what?"

"After that..." Liu Bei looked north, "it's time to unify Hebei."

"Students are willing to stay by their teachers' side."

"Alright." Liu Bei patted him on the shoulder, "But before that, you need to grow up. At least... you need to be able to ride a horse and fight, right?"

"The students can already ride horses," Zhuge Liang said earnestly. "General Zhao Yun said that in another six months, they will be able to go into battle."

Liu Bei laughed loudly: "Alright! Then in six months, I'll take you to fight Yuan Shao!"

In the setting sun, the shadows of the master and his apprentice stretched very long.

The chaos continues.

But Liu Bei knew that he had already seized the initiative.

Next, we'll move on to Hebei.

The next step... is the world.

And the eight-year-old child beside him will be his most capable assistant.

The road ahead is still long.

But Liu Bei was confident.

Because he is Liu Bei.

It was Liu Bei, who wanted to unify the world.