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

1. The tea at the Youzhou Governor's Mansion is a bit weak.

Ji County, the governor's residence of Youzhou.

Liu Yu's reception room was simply furnished—a few old mats, a few pottery teapots, and a calligraphy scroll on the wall that read "The benevolent love others," signed by Liu Yu himself.

When Liu Bei entered, Liu Yu was brewing tea.

It's not simmered tea, it's just simple boiling. Add a few tea leaves and some salt to the water, bring it to a boil, and then pour it into an earthenware bowl.

"Xuande has arrived?" Liu Yu raised his head, his smile gentle. "Sit. Try the tea I brewed."

Liu Bei sat down, took the earthenware bowl, and took a sip.

Hmm... it's very bland, and a little salty.

But he remained unfazed: "The governor's tea is elegant and mellow, with a unique flavor."

"Is that so?" Liu Yu's smile became even more gentle. "I knew it; Xuande is a connoisseur of tea."

The two exchanged a few pleasantries, mainly about the weather, the harvest, and people's livelihoods.

Liu Bei patiently chatted with him.

He came today for two purposes: first, to probe Liu Yu's strength and weakness; second, to obtain a formal title.

After chatting for about fifteen minutes, Liu Yu finally got to the point: "I heard that Xuande is in Zhuojun, training troops, cultivating land, suppressing bandits, and pacifying the people. He's doing a great job."

"You flatter me, Governor," Liu Bei said humbly. "As a subject of the Han Dynasty, it is my duty to share the burdens of the court."

"Sharing the burdens..." Liu Yu put down his teacup and sighed, "The world is fraught with troubles. Although the Yellow Turban Rebellion has been quelled, its remnants remain; warlords hold sway over their armies, and the court's orders are ignored; the people are suffering, displaced and homeless..."

He looked at Liu Bei: "Xuande, what do you think is the best way to govern this chaotic world?"

coming.

Liu Bei's heart skipped a beat; this was both a test and a probe.

"I am of limited talent and learning, and dare not speak presumptuously about governing the country," Liu Bei said modestly at first, then changed the subject, "But I believe that governing a chaotic world should be done in three steps."

"Oh? Which three steps?"

"The first step is to ensure sufficient food and troops." Liu Bei held up one finger. "If the people have enough to eat, they won't rebel; if the army has enough food and pay, they won't plunder. Therefore, cultivating land to store grain and training troops for war are fundamental."

Liu Yu nodded: "That makes sense. What's the second step?"

"The second step is to clarify the law and enforce it." Liu Bei held up his second finger. "In chaotic times, severe punishments are necessary. Bandits must be eradicated; corrupt officials must be punished; and powerful families must be controlled. But there must be a sense of proportion—the ringleaders must be brought to justice, those who are coerced into following them will not be questioned, and those who have rendered meritorious service will be rewarded."

"And the third step?"

"The third step is to win people's hearts." Liu Bei held up his third finger. "What the people want isn't grand principles, but a meal, a piece of clothing, and a stable home. Whoever gives them these things, they will follow."

Liu Yu fell silent.

He looked at Liu Bei, a complex expression flashing in his eyes.

This young man is no ordinary person.

His thinking was clear, his insights were profound, and... very practical.

"Xuande," Liu Yu said slowly, "your words have struck a chord with me. But..."

He paused, then said, "But in this day and age, it's difficult to do these things."

"What makes it difficult?"

"The difficulties lie in money and supplies, in personnel, and in..." Liu Yu smiled bitterly, "...the difficulties also lie in the constraints from all sides. Take Youzhou for example: Gongsun Zan is in Liaoxi, holding considerable military power; Gongsun Du is in Liaodong, ruling his own territory; and the Wuhuan are outside, frequently raiding the borders. As the governor of this province, I may not be listened to by anyone."

Liu Bei understood.

Liu Yu was complaining, but also...seeking help.

"Governor," Liu Bei said solemnly, "though I am not talented, I am willing to share your burdens. The three thousand soldiers of Zhuojun are at your command at any time."

Liu Yu's eyes lit up: "Really?"

"It's true." Liu Bei nodded. "However..."

"But what?"

"However, I have a request," Liu Bei said, rising and bowing deeply. "I would like to ask Your Excellency to allow me to recruit refugees and establish military settlements in Zhongshan, Changshan, and Dai counties."

Liu Yu was stunned for a moment.

Zhongshan, Changshan, and Daijun are three counties in the southwest of Youzhou, bordering Bingzhou. They are sparsely populated and rife with bandits.

Where is Liu Bei going?

"Xuande, that place is not like Zhuojun," Liu Yu warned. "The land is barren, the people are poor, bandits are everywhere, and it's close to the Black Mountain..."

"The Black Mountain bandits, Zhang Yan," Liu Bei replied. "I know him. That's precisely why someone is needed to guard this place. Otherwise, if the Black Mountain bandits head north, there will be no defensible terrain in the southwest of Youzhou."

Liu Yu pondered.

He understood Liu Bei's meaning—he wanted territory and autonomy.

But the words were beautifully phrased: "To guard the southwestern gateway of Youzhou."

"How many soldiers do you need?" Liu Yu asked.

"We have three thousand now, and we'll raise another two thousand to make a total of five thousand," Liu Bei announced. "We'll raise the money and supplies ourselves; all we need is for you to grant us a title."

"Property..."

"I will serve as the Southwest Commandant of Youzhou, concurrently in charge of military affairs in the three commanderies of Zhongshan, Changshan, and Dai." Liu Bei spoke fluently, "In this way, I can legitimately suppress bandits, pacify the people, and train troops in those three commanderies."

Liu Yu did the math.

Five thousand soldiers, self-sufficient in funds and provisions, also helped guard the southwestern gateway...

This deal doesn't seem like a bad one.

"Very well." Liu Yu made the decision. "I hereby appoint you as the Southwestern Commandant of Youzhou, in charge of the military affairs of the three commanderies. However..."

He added, "The autumn tax still has to be paid. Although there's not much tax to collect in those three counties right now..."

"I understand," Liu Bei said with a smile. "As long as the land reclamation is successful, the autumn tax will definitely be paid in full."

The two chatted for a while longer before Liu Bei took his leave.

As Liu Bei walked out of the governor's mansion, the smile on his face faded.

Liu Yu... is easier to deal with than I imagined.

This governor is indeed kind, but also... weak.

He lacked soldiers, generals, and capable people. So, after I demonstrated my abilities and sincerity, he agreed.

But that's alright.

Zhongshan, Changshan, and Dai counties, though currently impoverished, are strategically important. They connect to Youzhou in the north, Bingzhou in the west, and overlook Jizhou in the south, making them crucial future strategic locations.

and...

Liu Bei remembered someone.

Changshan Zhen Ding, Zhao Yun, Zhao Zilong.

If history hadn't changed much, Zhao Yun would probably still be in Changshan, perhaps already organizing local militia in his hometown.

It's time to meet this future "victorious general".

Second, Zhao Zilong, I'll take your marksmanship as a savior.

Ten days later, Changshan Zhending.

Liu Bei only brought Guan Yu and ten personal guards, traveling light.

Zhen Ding is a small county with low city walls and few pedestrians on the streets, making it look quite desolate.

"My lord, there are only a few of us, what if..." The captain of the personal guard asked with some concern.

"Don't worry," Liu Bei said with a smile. "Although Zhen Ding is poor, its people are honest and kind. Besides... we're here to recruit people, not to fight."

They wandered around the county town and heard some news: a young hero had recently emerged in Zhen Ding, surnamed Zhao, named Yun, courtesy name Zilong. He was only eighteen years old, but his martial arts skills were superb; he had once single-handedly defeated a group of more than thirty bandits.

"Zhao Yun..." Liu Bei thought to himself with secret joy.

Sure enough, it was there!

Do you know where he is?

"I heard that a group of local militia has been organized in Zhao Family Village, west of the city, to protect the area and keep the people safe."

Liu Bei immediately led his men to Zhao Family Village.

Zhao Family Village is small, with only a few dozen households. There is a wooden fence at the entrance of the village, where several young men patrol.

Upon seeing Liu Bei and his entourage, a young man stepped forward and asked, "Where do you all come from? What brings you here?"

The young man was about eighteen or nineteen years old, eight feet tall, with a face like jade and eyes like bright stars. Although he was dressed in coarse cloth, he had an extraordinary temperament.

Liu Bei's eyes lit up: "May I ask if you are Zhao Yun, Zhao Zilong?"

The young man was taken aback: "That's me. And you are...?"

"Liu Bei, Liu Xuande, Commandant of the Southwest of Youzhou." Liu Bei cupped his hands in greeting. "I have long admired Zilong's great name and have come to pay my respects."

Zhao Yun glanced at Liu Bei, then looked at Guan Yu behind him—Guan Yu, though not carrying the Green Dragon Crescent Blade, still exuded an imposing aura.

"So it's Commandant Liu." Zhao Yun clasped his hands in greeting. "Please come in."

The village was simple but clean. The local militia were training; although their equipment was rudimentary, they were full of spirit.

Liu Bei read it and nodded secretly.

As expected of soldiers led by Zhao Yun, they have a strong spirit and drive.

"Commander Liu has come from afar. May I ask what brings you here?" Zhao Yun invited Liu Bei to sit down, getting straight to the point.

"I dare not offer my advice," Liu Bei said with a smile. "I have come here today to invite Zilong to come out of seclusion and work together on great things."

Zhao Yun frowned: "A big deal? What big deal?"

"To restore the Han Dynasty and pacify the world," Liu Bei said earnestly. "Now the world is on the verge of chaos, and warlords are rising up everywhere. Although I am not talented, as a member of the Han imperial family, I cannot bear to see the people suffer and the land shattered. Therefore, I am recruiting and training soldiers in Youzhou to protect the borders and ensure the safety of the people, while waiting for the opportune moment."

He looked at Zhao Yun and said, "But we are short of men, especially generals, and we lack a loyal and brave general like Zilong. So I have taken the liberty of visiting you and would like to ask you for my help."

Zhao Yun remained silent.

He had heard of Liu Bei—a young general who was currently making waves in Youzhou, having rendered meritorious service in suppressing the Taiping Dao and earning the deep appreciation of Governor Liu Yu.

But he didn't expect that Liu Bei would come to find him in person.

"Commander Liu," Zhao Yun said slowly, "I am but a commoner, what merit or ability do I possess..."

"Zilong, there's no need for such modesty," Liu Bei interrupted him. "I've long heard of your deeds. To single-handedly defeat thirty bandits and organize local militia to protect the people and the region—that's true talent. But..."

He changed the subject: "Zhending is too small, Changshan is too remote. With Zilong's extraordinary abilities, are we to let them be buried in this rural wilderness?"

Zhao Yun was tempted.

He was indeed unwilling to accept it.

Eighteen is an age of youthful passion and ambition. He wanted to make a name for himself, achieve great things, and leave his mark on history.

but...

"Commander Liu," Zhao Yun asked, "if I were to join your service, how do you intend to utilize me?"

"Train elite troops to be the vanguard," Liu Bei said decisively. "I am currently building a cavalry force, but I lack a commander. This cavalry force must be equipped with the best horses, the best armor, and the best weapons. The training must be the most rigorous, and the treatment the best, but the tasks will also be the heaviest—charging into battle, slaying enemy generals and capturing flags, and protecting the central army are all their duties."

He stared at Zhao Yun: "I want to train this cavalry to be the best in the world. And the person who commands this cavalry must be the best cavalry general in the world. Zilong, do you think you can do it?"

Zhao Yun's eyes lit up.

The world's greatest cavalry...

The greatest cavalry general in the land...

"If I can obtain fine horses and armor, I will certainly live up to your trust!" Zhao Yun stood up and knelt on one knee.

"Alright!" Liu Bei helped him up. "But before that, Zilong, you have to come with me to a place first."

"where?"

"Zhuojun," Liu Bei said with a smile, "to meet your future comrades—Guan Yu, Guan Yunchang, and Zhang Fei, Zhang Yide. And...test your spear skills."

Third, your marksmanship is good, but it could be better.

Upon returning to Zhuojun, Liu Bei took Zhao Yun directly to the training ground.

"Yun Chang, Yi De, come and meet our new brother," Liu Bei called out.

Guan Yu and Zhang Fei were training their soldiers when they heard this and came over.

The two men sized up Zhao Yun, and Zhao Yun was also sizing them up.

Guan Yu secretly praised him: What a valiant young man! He has a restrained aura, but sharp eyes; he is a promising talent.

Zhang Fei then spoke directly: "Kid, I heard you're pretty good with a gun? Come on, let's spar a bit!"

Zhao Yun, unfazed, said, "Please enlighten me, General Zhang."

The two players left the field.

Zhang Fei used a practice version of the Zhangba Serpent Spear—a wooden pole wrapped with an iron head, weighing thirty catties.

Zhao Yun used an ordinary iron spear.

After thirty rounds, neither side could gain the upper hand.

Zhang Fei grew increasingly excited as the fight progressed: "Good lad! You've got some skill!"

Guan Yu watched from the side and nodded slightly.

Zhao Yun's spear skills were indeed superb. He was adept at both offense and defense, and his composure and experience were remarkable, unlike that of an eighteen-year-old boy.

After fifty rounds, Zhao Yun gradually fell into a disadvantageous position—not because his spear skills were inferior, but because his strength was lacking. Zhang Fei was too strong; with each collision, Zhao Yun's arm went numb.

"Stop," Liu Bei said.

The two stopped.

Zhang Fei grinned: "Kid, not bad! There aren't many in Youzhou who can fight me for fifty rounds without losing!"

Zhao Yun frowned: "General Zhang is exceptionally brave and strong; I am no match for him."

"Strength can be trained." Liu Bei walked over, picked up Zhao Yun's spear, and weighed it in his hand. "But this spear... is too ordinary."

He looked at Zhao Yun: "Zilong, what kind of spear do you like to use?"

"A spear that is ten feet long and weighs about twenty pounds would be ideal," Zhao Yun replied. "Too heavy and it won't be effective; too light and it won't be powerful."

"About three meters...ten kilograms. That's just right." Liu Bei calculated, "Weighing twenty jin...ten kilograms."

He put down the gun: "Here's what I'll do. I'll have the blacksmith tailor-make a gun for you. It'll be ten feet long, weigh twenty-one pounds, with an extended spearhead and a blood groove. The shaft will be made of bamboo, which is flexible and won't break easily."

Zhao Yun's eyes lit up: "Such a fine spear, Yun..."

"Don't thank me yet," Liu Bei said with a smile. "Here's the gun, but you have to promise me one thing."

"What is it?"

"Practice the spear technique I've given you." Liu Bei pulled out a roll of silk from his robes. "This is a set of 'Seven Probing Serpent Coil Spear Techniques,' which I've improved based on ancient spear techniques and adapted to battlefield realities. It consists of seven forms, each with seven variations, totaling forty-nine variations. You must master it within a month."

Zhao Yun took the silk cloth, unfolded it, and was immediately captivated.

That marksmanship...exquisite!

They combine offense and defense, employing both feints and real attacks, and are particularly adept at mounted combat.

"My lord, this spear technique..." Zhao Yun looked up, his eyes filled with shock.

"Designed specifically for cavalry generals." Liu Bei patted him on the shoulder. "If you train well, you'll be the enemy's nightmare on the battlefield."

"Yun...will certainly live up to your high expectations, my lord!"

After giving instructions to Zhao Yun, Liu Bei returned to his study.

Jian Yong has returned from Wuhuan.

Fourth, the Wuhuan people were fleecing the people quite ruthlessly.

"Xuande! We've struck it rich! We've struck it rich!"

As soon as Jian Yong entered the door, he started shouting, his face flushed with excitement.

"Tell me slowly," Liu Bei said, pouring him a glass of water.

Jian Yong took a big gulp and pulled out an account book from his robes: "Look! This time when we went to Wuhuan, we brought a hundred cartloads of goods—mainly grain, cloth, salt, and iron—with a total cost of about five hundred gold coins. After selling them, we got three hundred good horses, five hundred sheepskins, two hundred cowhides, and... this."

He then took out a cloth bag and poured out several pieces of yellowish material.

gold.

"The Wuhuan people use gold to barter?" Liu Bei picked up a piece, weighed it in his hand, and found it to be of good quality.

"That's right!" Jian Yong exclaimed excitedly. "They're desperately short of food and willing to pay high prices. A shi (a unit of dry measure) of millet is worth 500 coins in Youzhou, but in Wuhuan, it can buy a horse! Even if it's a foal, it can be a warhorse after two years!"

Liu Bei did some calculations.

One shi (a unit of dry measure) of millet costs about three hundred coins. A small horse in Youzhou is worth at least five thousand coins.

Fifteen times the profit.

Exorbitant profits.

"Furthermore," Jian Yong lowered his voice, "I've also reached long-term agreements with several Wuhuan tribal leaders. They've agreed to do business with us exclusively from now on. The condition is... we'll give them priority in selling grain, and the price will be 10% lower than what we offer to other tribes."

"You agreed?"

"I agree," Jian Yong said with a smile, "but I also set conditions: their horses can only be sold to us; their furs can only be sold to us. And we will set the price."

Liu Bei's eyes lit up.

monopoly.

Jian Yong actually managed to break the Wuhuan's trade monopoly on this trip!

"Well done!" Liu Bei slammed his hand on the table. "Xianhe, your mouth is really..."

"Is it really worth a fortune?" Jian Yong said smugly.

"No," Liu Bei shook his head, "it is priceless."

Jian Yong laughed heartily.

After laughing, he said seriously, "However, Xuande, there is something you need to be careful about. The Wuhuan people are not stupid. I lowered the price drastically this time. Although they agreed, they are definitely not satisfied. When I came back, I heard that the largest Wuhuan tribe—the Tadun tribe—was contacting other tribes, trying to unite and bargain with us."

"Tadun..." Liu Bei pondered.

He remembered that name.

Historically, the Wuhuan were the dominant powers in Liaodong, but they were later destroyed by Cao Cao.

"How do they want to negotiate?"

"I don't know," Jian Yong shook his head, "but it's definitely not a good thing. I suggest we prepare."

"Indeed." Liu Bei nodded. "Here's what you'll do: rest for a few days, and then go to Wuhuan."

"Going again?"

"Go." A cold glint flashed in Liu Bei's eyes. "This time, bring some 'gifts'."

"What gift?"

"One hundred sets of iron armor and fifty ring-pommel swords," Liu Bei said calmly. "Give them to those obedient tribal chiefs. Tell them, if you follow us, you'll have meat to eat. If you don't... you'll have knives to eat."

Jian Yong understood: "Divide and conquer?"

"That's right." Liu Bei stood up and walked to the map. "The Wuhuan are divided into five tribes. We'll win over three and suppress the other two. Let the obedient ones get richer and the disobedient ones get poorer. Before long, they'll start fighting each other."

"Brilliant!" Jian Yong gave a thumbs up. "What if Tadun disagrees?"

"Then let's fight," Liu Bei said casually. "Perfect timing, our new army needs to see some blood. The Wuhuan cavalry will be a good whetstone."

Looking at Liu Bei, Jian Yong suddenly felt that this young man was increasingly showing the qualities of a ruthless and ambitious leader.

Decisive in killing and ruthless, yet employing both kindness and severity.

"Oh, right," Liu Bei remembered something, "of the three hundred horses you brought back, choose the one hundred best ones and give them to Zilong's cavalry. The rest can be distributed to the various camps."

"Zhao Yun's side..."

"I've already won him over," Liu Bei said with a smile. "He's a talented general. With proper training, he'll be able to shoulder great responsibilities in the future."

Jian Yong exclaimed, "Xuande, your ability to recruit talented people is truly amazing... you can find them anywhere you go."

"In chaotic times, talent is the most important thing," Liu Bei said earnestly. "We are currently small in territory and weak in strength, so we must gather talent even more. A good general is worth a thousand soldiers; a good strategist is worth ten thousand soldiers."

"So what kind of talent are we currently lacking?"

"We lack strategists and talent for internal affairs," Liu Bei sighed. "I'm good at fighting and training troops, but when it comes to governing a country... to be honest, I'm not good at it. We can manage now that our territory is small. But when our territory grows larger, without talent for internal affairs, things will definitely fall into chaos."

Jian Yong thought for a moment: "I do know someone..."

"Who?"

"Tian Yu," Jian Yong said, "is from Yuyang, in his early twenties. He is talented and knowledgeable in government affairs. However... he comes from a poor family and has never been given an important position."

Tian Yu?

Liu Bei's eyes lit up.

This was a famous minister in history! A key minister in the northern frontier of Cao Wei, he was very skilled at governing the region.

Do you know where he is?

"They should be in their hometown of Yuyang," Jian Yong thought for a moment. "Should I go and ask them?"

"No," Liu Bei shook his head, "I'll go myself."

We must treat talented people with sincerity.

He didn't intend to completely replicate the story of the three visits to the thatched cottage, but he knew he had to maintain the attitude of respecting and valuing talent.

Fifth, Tian Yu's test was a bit tricky.

Five days later, Yuyang.

Tian Yu's home was very simple, consisting of three thatched huts and a courtyard.

When Liu Bei arrived, Tian Yu was reading a book in the courtyard.

"Mr. Tian, ​​I am Liu Bei, the Southwest Commandant of Youzhou, here to pay my respects." Liu Bei bowed at the door.

Tian Yu looked up and sized up Liu Bei.

He had heard of Liu Bei—a young general who was currently making waves in Youzhou and was said to be highly regarded by Liu Yu.

But he didn't expect that Liu Bei would come to visit him in person.

"Lieutenant Liu, please come in." Tian Yu stood up, neither humble nor arrogant.

The two entered the house and sat down as host and guest, respectively.

"Mr. Tian, ​​the reason I have come here is to invite you to come out of seclusion and lend me a helping hand," Liu Bei said bluntly.

Tian Yu did not answer immediately, but asked, "What does the Commandant want me to do?"

"Governing the people and administering the government," Liu Bei said sincerely. "I am a military man, good at fighting and training troops, but I am not capable of governing local areas. Now I am in charge of the military affairs of Zhongshan, Changshan and Dai counties. These three counties are sparsely populated, with rampant bandits and impoverished people. I would like to ask you, sir, to help me govern these three counties well."

Tian Yu pondered, "Governing a region... requires money and provisions, manpower, and authority. How much can the Commandant provide?"

"We don't have much money or provisions now, but it will increase," Liu Bei said honestly. "As for manpower, you can recruit people yourself, and I will fully support you. As for authority... the civil administration of the three commanderies will be entirely entrusted to you, and I will only be in charge of military affairs."

This is a very generous offer.

It was practically a matter of letting Tian Yu govern.

Tian Yu was tempted.

But he still had concerns.

"Commander," Tian Yu said slowly, "the world is on the verge of chaos, and warlords are rising up everywhere. I want to know, what are your ambitions, Commander? Is it to carve out a territory and become a local emperor? Or..."

"To restore the Han dynasty and pacify the world," Liu Bei said resolutely. "As a member of the Han imperial family, I cannot bear to see our land shattered and our people displaced. Therefore, I have gathered and trained troops to protect our borders and ensure the safety of our people, awaiting the opportune moment."

He looked at Tian Yu and said, "But I know that having soldiers alone is not enough; we also need people, land, and grain. Therefore, I ask you, sir, to come out of seclusion and help me govern the region and accumulate strength. In the future... if the opportunity arises, I will certainly step forward, sweep away the warlords, and restore peace to the world."

Tian Yu stared at Liu Bei for a long time.

"Is the Captain truly sincere in his words?"

Every word is from the heart.

"Very well." Tian Yu stood up. "I have a question. If the Commandant can answer it, I, Tian Yu, am willing to serve him like a dog or a horse."

"Sir, may I ask?"

"Suppose the Commandant has 100,000 shi of grain, and 50,000 displaced people have poured in, including 20,000 able-bodied men and 30,000 elderly, women, and children. How should the Commandant deal with this?"

This is a very practical question.

In times of chaos, displaced people are a common occurrence. If handled well, they are part of the population and a source of labor; if handled poorly, they become mobs and a threat.

Liu Bei thought for a moment and replied, "First, set up soup kitchens so that everyone can have a meal. The elderly, women, and children should have one bowl of soup a day; the young and strong should have two bowls of soup a day, but they should be required to participate in labor—building city walls, digging irrigation ditches, and reclaiming wasteland."

"Second, register and record. The able-bodied are assigned to the farming teams, while the elderly, weak, women and children are assigned to the logistics teams. Those with skills, such as carpenters, blacksmiths and tailors, are assigned to separate groups and paid according to their skills."

"Third, land will be distributed. Those who wish to settle down will each be allocated twenty mu of land. The first year will be tax-free, the second year will be taxed at 30%, and the third year at 50%. Seeds and farming tools will be provided by the government and returned after the autumn harvest."

"Fourth, recruit soldiers. Select able-bodied men who are physically fit and of good character to enlist. Pay them a full salary and give priority to their families in resettlement."

Tian Yu nodded repeatedly as he listened.

These four points are all reasonable and well-considered.

"Captain," Tian Yu asked again, "what if the grain only lasts for three months?"

"Then let's increase supply and reduce expenditure." Liu Bei said without hesitation, "Increase supply: organize caravans and use what we have—such as salt, iron, and horses—to exchange for grain. Reduce expenditure: strictly control the distribution of grain, prioritizing the rations for able-bodied men and soldiers. At the same time, accelerate the progress of land reclamation and strive to plant the first batch of crops within three months."

"What if we can't get grain in return?"

"Then...fight," Liu Bei said in a deep voice. "Fight those wealthy and unscrupulous tyrants, fight those unscrupulous merchants who hoard goods and speculate. In chaotic times, harsh measures are needed; in extraordinary times, extraordinary measures must be taken."

Tian Yu fell silent.

He looked at Liu Bei, a hint of admiration flashing in his eyes.

This person is kind-hearted, but also resourceful; idealistic, but also pragmatic.

He is indeed a man destined for great things.

"My lord," Tian Yu suddenly changed his address, bowing deeply, "Tian Yu is willing to serve you like a dog or a horse."

Liu Bei was overjoyed and helped Tian Yu up, saying, "With your help, sir, I feel like a fish in water!"

VI. The upheaval in Luoyang finally arrived.

Three days after Liu Bei returned to Zhuojun with Tian Yu, an urgent report arrived from Luoyang.

It wasn't delivered by intelligence agents; it was an official imperial edict—delivered by urgent dispatch.

"By the grace of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: I have heard that Liu Bei, the Southwestern Commandant of Youzhou, is loyal, brave, diligent, and skilled in military administration. Now that the nation is in dire straits and treacherous officials are rampant, I hereby appoint Liu Bei as General Who Subdues Rebels, ordering him to immediately raise troops and enter Luoyang to defend the Emperor. This is my decree!"

The messenger was a young eunuch, pale-faced, who had clearly traveled day and night to deliver the decree.

Liu Bei was shocked when he received the imperial edict.

Loyal to the Emperor?

Could it be...?

"Father-in-law, what has happened in Luoyang?" Liu Bei asked tentatively.

The eunuch glanced around and lowered his voice: "General He... has been killed."

"What?!" Although Liu Bei was somewhat prepared, he was still taken aback.

"The Ten Attendants were behind it." The eunuch's voice trembled. "Luoyang is in chaos now. The Western Garden Army and the Northern Army are fighting. His Majesty... His Majesty was kidnapped from the palace by Zhang Rang and his men, and his whereabouts are unknown..."

really.

He Jin was killed, the Ten Attendants Rebellion broke out, and Emperor Ling was kidnapped...

The curtain of history has been raised.

"Then this imperial edict to aid the emperor..."

"It was the Empress Dowager who issued the eunuch's decree," the eunuch said. "The Empress Dowager currently controls the palace, but has no troops at her disposal. Therefore, she urgently issued an edict summoning troops from all over the country to come to the capital to defend the emperor."

Liu Bei understood.

This is Empress Dowager He trying to save herself.

but...

He looked at the eunuch: "Your Excellency, besides me, who else received the imperial edict?"

"We've received offers from Ding Yuan of Bingzhou, Dong Zhuo of Liangzhou, Liu Dai of Yanzhou, Han Fu of Jizhou... from every province in the land," the eunuch said. "But... I don't know how many will actually go."

Liu Bei sneered inwardly.

Of course, there aren't many.

Going to Luoyang at this time would be like wading into troubled waters. You might even be mistaken for a rebel.

But... this is also an opportunity.

"You must be tired from your journey, sir." Liu Bei gestured to his guards, "Take him to rest and treat him well."

After seeing the eunuch off, Liu Bei immediately summoned everyone.

Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Jian Yong, Tian Yu, Qian Zhao, Zou Jing... all the core members were present.

"Something has happened in Luoyang," Liu Bei said bluntly, explaining the situation.

After hearing this, everyone looked at each other in bewilderment.

"Brother, are we really going to Luoyang?" Zhang Fei asked.

"Go, but not now." Liu Bei shook his head. "Luoyang is a pit of fire right now; whoever jumps in will be doomed."

"And this imperial edict..."

"We must accept the imperial edict and shout the slogan of serving the emperor." A cunning glint flashed in Liu Bei's eyes. "But how diligently we serve, and when we serve, is up to us."

Tian Yu was the first to react: "Does our lord mean... to use the pretext of supporting the emperor to carry out expansion?"

"That's right." Liu Bei walked to the map. "Look, we're in Zhuojun now. To get to Luoyang, we have to pass through Jizhou. Jizhou is now Han Fu's territory, and he definitely won't want us to pass through."

"Then let's fight them!" Zhang Fei shouted.

"No," Liu Bei shook his head, "A direct confrontation would result in too many losses. We need to... borrow a passage."

"Borrow passage? Would Han Fu agree to that?"

"So we need to negotiate." Liu Bei looked at Jian Yong. "Xianhe, I'm afraid I'll have to trouble you again. Go to Ye City and see Han Fu. Tell him that we are ordered to defend the emperor and need to pass through Ji Province. In return, we will help him wipe out the Black Mountain bandits."

"Black Mountain Bandits?" Jian Yong was taken aback. "Zhang Yan's gang?"

"That's right." Liu Bei pointed to the map. "The Black Mountain bandits operate in the Taihang Mountains area and frequently raid Ji Province. Han Fu has long wanted to eliminate them, but he lacks the strength. If we help him eliminate them, he will definitely be happy."

Tian Yu frowned: "But the Black Mountain bandits number over 100,000, while we only have 5,000 soldiers..."

"It's not a real campaign," Liu Bei laughed. "It's just a show. We'll fight a few battles, kill a few minor leaders, and then say that the Black Mountain bandits are powerful and need to be eradicated in the long term. That way, we'll have a reason to station troops in western Ji Province."

Everyone suddenly realized.

They're determined to stay in Jizhou and never leave!

"My lord is brilliant!" Jian Yong exclaimed in admiration. "I'll set off tomorrow!"

"Wait a minute," Liu Bei called out to him, "Before we go, there's something I need to take care of."

"What is it?"

"Issue a proclamation." Liu Bei's eyes gleamed. "In the name of Liu Bei, the General Who Punishes Rebels, issue a proclamation to the world, announcing the raising of troops to defend the emperor. The proclamation must be written with fervor and righteous indignation, portraying us as the last loyal subjects of the Han Dynasty."

"Understood!" Jian Yong rubbed his hands together. "I'm good at writing! I guarantee I'll write something that will move readers to tears and break their hearts!"

"Furthermore," Liu Bei added, "after the proclamation is sent out, immediately dispatch men to Zhongshan, Changshan, and Dai counties to take over the defense of these three counties. Remember, they must be doing so under the banner of 'Pioneers of Loyalty to the King, Protecting the Territory and Securing the People.'"

Tian Yu nodded: "I'll arrange that."

"Yun Chang, Yi De, Zi Long," Liu Bei said, looking at the three generals. "You must intensify your training. Within three months, I want to see an elite army of five thousand men. At that time... we may really have to go to war."

"Who should we fight?" Zhang Fei asked excitedly.

"Strike those who deserve it." Liu Bei looked westward. "This turmoil in Luoyang won't end easily. Dong Zhuo, Ding Yuan, Yuan Shao... we'll have to fight them sooner or later. We need to be prepared."

The group accepted the order and left.

Only Liu Bei remained in the study.

He walked to the window and looked at the gloomy sky.

Luoyang is in chaos.

The world is in chaos.

His chance had come.

but...

"It's still not fast enough," Liu Bei murmured.

Five thousand soldiers and three prefectures—this strength is far too weak in the coming chaos.

We need to speed things up.

Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures.

"Someone come here," Liu Bei summoned his personal guards. "Go and invite Mr. Tian here. I have something to discuss with him."

Tian Yu arrived quickly.

"My lord is looking for me?"

"Hmm." Liu Bei looked at him. "Guorang, I want to discuss something with you."

"Please speak, my lord."

"I want to... reform the tax system," Liu Bei said, making a startling statement.

Tian Yu was stunned: "Reform the tax system? How?"

"Simply put, it means: the land tax and poll tax will be combined, and officials and gentry will pay taxes together." Liu Bei said two words.

Tian Yu was completely bewildered: "Equalizing the land tax and poll tax? Officials and gentry alike paying taxes? What does this mean?"

"What I mean is," Liu Bei explained, "that the poll tax will be abolished, and taxes will be levied based on the amount of land owned. Those with more land will pay more, those with less land will pay less, and those with no land will not pay. Moreover, regardless of whether you are an official or a gentry, a noble family or a poor family, as long as you own land, you must pay taxes."

Tian Yu gasped.

This reform... is too radical!

"My lord, this...this will offend all the powerful clans!" Tian Yu said anxiously. "We are weak now, if we offend the powerful clans..."

"I know," Liu Bei nodded. "Therefore, we will only pilot it in the three counties under our control. And... we will proceed step by step."

"How do we proceed step by step?"

"The first step is to survey the land," Liu Bei said. "We must thoroughly measure and register all the land in the three counties. Anyone who conceals land ownership will be severely punished."

"The second step is to establish a tax-free allowance," Liu Bei continued. "Each person will have ten mu of tax-free land. Only the portion exceeding ten mu will be taxed. The tax rate will be... one-thirtieth."

"One-thirtieth of the tax?" Tian Yu exclaimed in surprise again. "That's even lower than one-fifteenth of the imperial tax!"

"That's right," Liu Bei said with a smile. "When taxes are low, the people are more willing to cooperate. Moreover, while the powerful families and wealthy clans may not be happy with a tax of one-thirtieth, they won't necessarily fight back desperately."

"Officials and gentry alike pay taxes..."

"There's no rush for this," Liu Bei shook his head. "We'll implement it when we're stronger. For now, we'll only implement the land tax reform and the land survey."

Tian Yu pondered for a long time.

"My lord, this approach will certainly win the hearts of the people and increase tax revenue. However... the risks are enormous."

"In chaotic times, what is without risk?" Liu Bei countered. "He who wins the hearts of the people wins the world. Right now, we have no soldiers, no food, and no money. The only way out is to win the hearts of the people. Only with the support of the people can we have manpower, supplies, and a solid foundation."

Looking at Liu Bei, Tian Yu suddenly realized that this young man's ambitions far exceeded his imagination.

This is not about establishing a separate regime.

This is about to... revolutionize the world.

"My lord," Tian Yu bowed deeply, "Tian Yu is willing to assist you in achieving this great undertaking!"

"Alright!" Liu Bei helped him up. "Then I'll leave this matter to Guo Rang. Remember, be steady, be slow, and be methodical. If you encounter resistance, you can compromise, but you can't give up."

"clear!"

After Tian Yu left, Liu Bei stood alone in front of the map.

The land tax was converted into a poll tax, and land was surveyed...

This is just the beginning.

What he wanted to create was a completely new regime.

A regime that does not rely on powerful families or local tyrants, but on the people, the army, and the system.

Although it is still very weak.

But a single spark can start a prairie fire.

"Report!"

His thoughts were interrupted by the guard's voice.

"Come in."

"My lord, someone from the Governor's Office of Youzhou has arrived," a guard reported. "Governor Liu requests that you proceed to Ji County immediately, saying he has important matters to discuss."

Liu Bei raised an eyebrow.

Liu Yu sought him out at this time...

Could it be that he also knows about what happened in Luoyang?

still...

"Prepare the horses," Liu Bei ordered. "I'll go right away."

The curtain has been raised on a chaotic era.

Everyone has to make a choice.

Liu Yu, what would you choose?

And I...

A sharp glint flashed in Liu Bei's eyes.

I've already made my choice.