The imperial cause at the end of the Han Dynasty was not one of partial peace.

In the seventh year of the Guanghe era, the Han court issued an edict ordering prefectures and counties to repair their defenses, refine their weapons, and recruit volunteer soldiers. The far-reaching impact of this edict was probably something that the officials and ministers of the Han court had not anticipated.

This allowed local powerful clans to grow rapidly, legally possess their own private armies, and eventually seize control of prefectures and counties.

But at that moment, for Liu Bei, the significance of this edict was that it provided him with a crucial opportunity to legitimately recruit local powerful clans in Zhuo County to join him in the national crisis.

For example, the Lu family of Zhuo County, which Liu Bei was most concerned about.

If we only mention Lushi in Zhuoxian County, most people might not have any impression of it.

But they also have another famous and world-renowned name—the Lu family of Fanyang, one of the five famous families and seven prominent clans since the Wei and Jin dynasties.

The Lu family of Fanyang, a prominent family in China and a family of scholars, has produced many officials for hundreds of years. They are known as one of the same families as the Cui family of Qinghe, the Zheng family of Xingyang, and the Wang family of Taiyuan. Their family is distinguished and noble, and they can be regarded as the best of the scholars.

According to historical records, the Lu clan of Fanyang originated from the Jiang surname and were descendants of the Qi state's royal family. During the Qin Dynasty, the descendants of Lu Ao, a scholar, moved to the banks of the Zhuo River and established their roots in Zhuo County, becoming the local ancestral clan.

Later, Cao Wei renamed Zhuojun to Fanyangjun, and from then on, the Lu family of Zhuojun began to be called the Lu family of Fanyang, which became famous throughout the world.

The key figure who established the Lu family's prominent position among the "Five Surnames and Seven Families" was Lu Yu. He served in the Cao Wei dynasty, rose to the position of Minister of Works, and was in charge of elections. He was known for his integrity and was a model of high-ranking families in the Wei and Jin dynasties.

Lu Yu is the youngest son of Lu Zhi, Liu Bei's current mentor, a renowned Confucian scholar, and the General of the Northern Army.

At the same time, Lu Zhi was also one of the three generals in charge of suppressing the Yellow Turban Rebellion, ranking alongside Left General Huangfu Song and Right General Zhu Jun. He was appointed to oversee the war in Ji Province and was responsible for annihilating the main force of the Zhang brothers. He was a man of both literary and military talent, resolute and principled, and renowned throughout the land.

Therefore, if Liu Bei wanted to further quell the Yellow Turban Rebellion, establish merits, and gain military achievements in the future, the best, and only, option was to join the ranks of his mentor, Lu Zhi.

However, the idea was beautiful, but the reality was harsh. Although Liu Bei had studied under Lu Zhi, that was already based on their shared hometown.

Moreover, he was young at the time and didn't enjoy studying much, preferring dogs, horses, music, and fine clothes. Perhaps in the eyes of Lu Zhi, who was fond of classical studies, valued etiquette, and was upright, Liu Bei, as a disciple, didn't have a very good impression.

It is virtually impossible for someone to easily enter the core of Lu Zhi's military staff simply because of their past teacher-student relationship.

If Liu Bei wanted to successfully join the army that was suppressing the rebellion and enter the core leadership, the best option would naturally be to go south with the Lu family members.

The three generals selected by the Han court this time all came from prominent local families and powerful clans, which in itself reflects the court's reliance on the mobilization capabilities of these aristocratic families.

Among them, Zhu Jun, the Right General of the Central Army, is the most typical.

Zhu Jun, courtesy name Gongwei, was a native of Shangyu County, Kuaiji Commandery. His family was not a family of scholars who had served as high-ranking officials for generations, but rather a local powerful family that "made a living by selling silk".

In the first year of the Guanghe era, a rebellion broke out in Jiaozhou, led by Liang Long and others, with its forces numbering in the tens of thousands. They attacked and captured counties and prefectures. The imperial court appointed Zhu Jun as the governor of Jiaozhou and sent him to quell the rebellion.

After Zhu Jun received the order, the court was unable to allocate troops to help him quell the rebellion. So Zhu Jun went directly back to his hometown and used his family's wealth and local prestige to "recruit family soldiers" and "mobilize his clansmen," quickly assembling a force of 5,000 men.

Zhu Jun then led this private army south, and within ten months quelled the rebellion in Jiaozhou. For his meritorious service, he was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Duting and promoted to Grand Master of Remonstrance.

The wealth of the Lu family in Zhuo County may not have been as great as the commercial accumulation of the Zhu family, but as a family of scholars, the Lu family had many members, disciples all over the world, and thousands of followers and guests.

During festivals, even a chivalrous hero like Liu Bei would pay a visit.

With the rise of bandits, the imperial court issued an edict ordering local areas to recruit their own militia. Naturally, a powerful clan like the Lu family became a target for the state and county governments to win over.

Now that Lu Zhi is away on a military campaign, it is Lu Zhi's eldest son, Lu Shao, whose courtesy name is Zicheng, who is left behind to guard the ancestral land, appease the clan, and maintain the family business.

Liu Bei had several interactions with him. He was well-versed in classics and history, of upright character, and had a good reputation in his hometown.

If he hadn't been recommended as a filial and incorruptible official by the county right after his coming-of-age ceremony, he would have been the one selected this year for the honor of being upright and capable, and Liu Bei would never have had a chance.

Following Liu Bei's advice, Liu He issued a proclamation throughout the prefecture, recruiting heroes to jointly punish the traitor. Liu Bei then traveled lightly and personally visited Lu Shao in Lushi.

Upon hearing of Liu Bei's visit, Lu Shao personally went out to greet him. He was dressed in a dark black robe and wore a scholar's cap. His face was refined and his demeanor was graceful, truly befitting a scion of a distinguished family.

After the two men were seated, Liu Bei got straight to the point, cupping his hands and saying, "Brother Zicheng, I have come here today without warning, but it is truly for matters concerning the world."

Lu Shao returned the greeting: "Brother Xuande, you are too kind. Your lord and his family braved swords to fight for the country in times of crisis and quelled the Yellow Turban Rebellion. Your reputation is renowned throughout the counties and prefectures, and the governor praises you. Although I am a scholar who stays at home, I often hear the praises from my hometown and I truly admire them. I don't know what you are referring to, Brother Xuande, but as long as it is within my power, I will do my best to help."

Liu Bei immediately said solemnly, "The bandits are rampant now, and this is not a problem for just one province or county. Lu Shi was appointed to lead troops in this time of crisis, holding the imperial staff of Ji Province, and is facing the main force of the Zhang brothers. Although we have Huangfu and Zhu Gong as our support, the bandits are numerous and we are few, so the situation will be difficult. The imperial court has issued an edict allowing provinces and counties to recruit their own righteous troops. This is the time for loyal and righteous men of the world to rise up and help the royal army quell the rebellion."

"The Lu family has been blessed by the nation for generations, with a long tradition of poetry and propriety, and a renowned reputation throughout the country. Master Lu is a pillar of the nation and the hope of all people. Now that the Master is away on a distant expedition, his son is stationed in his hometown. He should follow the example of the sage Zhu Gongwei and recruit the strong members of the clan and guests to train and build up a righteous army."

"It can not only protect the village with all its might, but also help the teacher and achieve unparalleled merit, thus serving the country, bringing honor to the family, and fulfilling filial piety. Isn't this a perfect solution for all three?"

Having said this, he spoke with great enthusiasm and fervor: "I, Bei, though unworthy, have been fortunate enough to be entrusted with the undeserved favor of the prefectural government, temporarily commanding the prefectural troops to quell the rebellion, and have gained some experience in battle. I wish to join forces with you, Brother Zicheng, to first quell the remaining rebels in Youzhou, then march south to Jizhou to join forces with Lu Shi and together suppress the main force of the Yellow Turbans. I sincerely invite you to join me in this righteous cause and restore the Han Dynasty! What do you say, Brother Zicheng?"

Lu Shao was in the prime of his youth, full of youthful vigor. How could he resist the invitation from Liu Bei, the enchanting figure of the Han Dynasty, to restore the Han Dynasty?

He felt that Liu Bei possessed a magnanimous spirit and a heroic demeanor, and his heart was filled with boundless pride. He immediately rose from his seat and bowed solemnly to Liu Bei: "Brother Xuande's words are like the sun breaking through the clouds! Although I am not talented, I know the great principles of loyalty and filial piety. The country is in trouble, and my father is fighting hard abroad. How can I sit and guard the home, only concerned with my own well-being? Raising soldiers to assist the army and protecting the borders and people is the duty of us, the sons of the Lu family!"

He immediately issued an order: all members of the Lu clan, their guests, and their tenants who possess courage, are knowledgeable in warfare, and are willing to join the army to suppress the bandits may sign up. The Lu clan will provide provisions, supplies, and weapons, and those who perform meritorious service will be rewarded.

The Lu family had deep roots in Zhuojun and wielded considerable influence. Their command was met with overwhelming response. In just three days, Lu Shao had gathered over three hundred men, including clan members, elite retainers, and strong followers, all well-dressed, equipped with fine weapons, and accompanied by dozens of excellent horses.

Lu Shao appointed himself commander-in-chief, with his cousin Lu Min as his deputy, and volunteered to lead this righteous army to fight for the country in times of crisis.

With the help of the Lu family, a prominent clan in the prefecture, who were among the first to respond, the recruitment of soldiers by the prefecture government and Liu Bei proceeded extremely smoothly.

Liu Bei raised a banner in Zhuoxian to recruit righteous soldiers, and many responded, with powerful families donating money and grain to help the army.

Liu Bei used strict standards to select the strongest and bravest men, and quickly added more than 300 elite troops. The prefecture government recruited more than 1,000 strong and brave men in just a few days.

Liu He was already full of confidence, believing that the victory in suppressing the Yellow Turban Rebellion was within his grasp.

But just as things were looking up, in April, a piece of bad news came from the north of Zhuojun, like a bolt from the blue, shocking everyone in Zhuojun.

The Yellow Turban rebels of Guangyang captured Ji County, the capital of Youzhou, and killed Guo Xun, the governor of Youzhou, and Liu Wei, the prefect of Guangyang!

The government troops were defeated, and the rebel army was powerful, so they divided their forces to attack various counties!

This sudden turn of events dashed Liu He's meager ambition, which had been fueled by his conservative and corrupt nature, and extinguished all his aspirations.

When the news of the suspension of the expedition reached Liu Bei's camp, Liu Bei could not contain his anger. He slammed his fist on the table and stood up, saying, "This is a time for righteousness and martial prowess, why is the army in such a state of panic? Gentlemen, please follow me to the prefectural government."

When Liu Bei arrived at the prefectural government, it was in complete chaos. The officials were at a loss, and the people in the inner court seemed to be packing up their valuables.

Upon seeing Liu Bei arrive, Liu He quickly stepped forward, grasped his hands, and said, "Xuande, have you also heard of the defeat of the state troops? The state capital has fallen, the governor and prefect are both dead, and the rebels are overwhelming! What can be done? Let's discuss sending troops again for now."

"Your most urgent task is to defend the city, build deep moats and high walls, and conscript the local strongmen to fortify the city, so as to ensure the safety of Zhuojun."

Liu Bei, however, was filled with courage and said, "My lord! Please calm down! This is a gift from Heaven to you, a peerless achievement. How can you tie your own hands and become a laughingstock to the world?"

"Ah? What does this mean?" Liu He was stunned by Liu Bei's imposing presence and asked hesitantly.

Liu Bei cupped his hands and said loudly, "The rebels have managed to capture the state capital and slaughter the border guards. Their momentum seems to have reached its peak, like the sun at its zenith, and the world is terrified."

"However, their sudden and great victory will inevitably breed arrogance and complacency. Their troops will plunder and loot, and their commands will become uncoordinated. This is precisely when their forces are most dispersed and their defenses most lax! As the saying goes, 'The moon wanes when it is full, and water overflows when it is full.' An arrogant army is bound to be defeated!"

Do you know what it means when the bigger the storm, the more expensive the fish are?

Liu Bei spoke with magnanimity, saying, "My lord, at this time, the more turbulent the times, the more clearly our pillars of strength stand firm! The more rampant the rebels, the more clearly our achievements in quelling the chaos are revealed!"

"If the state troops are defeated, the rebel army is powerful, and the local officials are afraid of the enemy like tigers, hesitating to advance, only you, my lord, are able to kill the rebel chieftain with the speed of a whirlwind, recover Ji County, turn the tide in one fell swoop, and stabilize Youzhou from the brink of collapse! Then, when the court evaluates merits, how can it not place you, my lord, above all others?"

"In that case, being ennobled as a marquis, appointed as a minister, or even attained the position of one of the Three Dukes is within reach!"

"In the future, history will surely record your deeds in great detail."

Liu Bei's words were inspiring and generous, which naturally swayed Liu He's heart and filled him with longing. However, as an old and frail minister, he was naturally hesitant and worried about taking risks. He said hesitantly, "What Xuande said is reasonable, but the enemy's power is growing, and our county's troops are few and far between. What if we suffer a loss..."

Liu Bei, of course, understood his nature of wanting to accomplish great things but also being cautious about his own safety. He immediately stepped forward and said with great enthusiasm, "If you still have doubts, I have a plan that can guarantee your safety and ensure the complete success of suppressing the rebellion!"

"What can we do?"

"Please grant me the authority of the prefecture and government, along with banners and tallies, and permit me to act expediently. I am willing to lead my own troops, along with the Lu clan's righteous army and the heroes and retainers from the prefecture who volunteer to join the expedition, totaling about a thousand elite infantry and cavalry, as the vanguard to lead the expedition northward to quell the bandits on behalf of the prefecture and government!"

"Your Excellency can remain in Zhuojun to manage supplies, strengthen city defenses, and provide backup. Thus—"

Liu Bei's voice was firm and resolute, filled with loyalty and righteous indignation: "If we advance, I will be the vanguard. If we are fortunate enough to succeed, recover the prefecture, and pacify Youzhou, this will be the greatest achievement in quelling the rebellion and stabilizing the country, and that credit will fall squarely on you, my lord! You, my lord, have been stationed in the rear, strategizing and planning, and your contributions are indispensable!"

"If we retreat, we can prepare a protective barrier. Even if the war goes against us, Your Excellency can firmly defend the foundation of Zhuojun without damaging your prestige. You can still protect the territory and the people and wait for the opportune moment."

"This is a foolproof plan, a solution that benefits both sides! Your Excellency can advance or retreat at will, remaining in an invincible position! I offer my utmost sincerity, all for the sake of the nation and for Your Excellency's benefit. I urge Your Excellency to act decisively without further hesitation, for then Youzhou will be greatly fortunate, and the Han Dynasty will be greatly fortunate!"

This arrangement meant that Liu Bei would face all the risks of swords and arrows, while the credit would go entirely to the prefecture. Liu He would simply share in the credit without any trouble, making it a completely free reward.

Even Liu He, with his aged heart, was moved. Looking at Liu Bei's loyal and righteous demeanor, he wept and exclaimed, "Xuande is truly a kind and loyal man. No one embodies the spirit of a national hero. As for what happened before... alas, what's past is past, let's not dwell on it."

"Now, in the name of the prefecture, I hereby bestow upon you the title and command of the righteous troops of Zhuo County to march north and quell the bandits! The provisions and military supplies of the prefecture are at your disposal! I, an old man, will await news of victory in Zhuo County!"

It would be a waste not to recruit such loyal and courageous individuals into our ranks.

Liu He then confidently declared, "Rest assured, Xuande, as soon as news of victory arrives, I will personally draft a memorial to the throne, truthfully requesting credit for you and your troops, ensuring that not a single drop of blood shed by loyal and righteous men is in vain!"

With Liu He's support, Liu Bei was finally able to unleash his full potential.

The dragon has been lying in wait in the abyss for a long time, and today it finally has the opportunity to realize its lifelong ambitions!

He immediately took swift and decisive action, and rallied his troops for battle.

This time, the troops marching north were far more numerous than the few hundred righteous soldiers of the past; Liu Bei's own elite force alone numbered over 1,300 infantry and cavalry.

The Lu family also sent troops to accompany them, with Lu Shao personally serving as general. He led more than 300 men, including his clansmen, elite guests, and strong followers, all dressed in neat armor, and they were known as the Lu family's retinue.

In addition, there were also powerful families in the county who were willing to go north to make a name for themselves. They each sent their own guests and righteous soldiers to help them, totaling more than two hundred people.

The army consisted of over 1,900 soldiers and over 400 qualified warhorses. In addition, there were civilians, craftsmen, doctors, and others who accompanied the army, making up a force of 2,000 elite infantry and cavalry, who escorted supplies, equipment, and vehicles.

On the third day of the fourth month, Prefect Liu He personally saw off the army at a pavilion three miles outside the city. Banners fluttered and armored soldiers stood at attention by the pavilion.

Prefect Liu He led his officials, clerks, elders, and representatives of prominent families to set up tents and prepare food and wine here.

This is an ancient custom for generals going on campaigns, called "Zudao". An altar has been dug in front of the pavilion, and a grand sacrifice has been set up to worship the road god and pray for a good campaign.

Offerings such as black wine, clear water, dried meat, and sorghum were laid out, just like a sacrificial ceremony.

The chief priest loudly proclaimed the rites, and the crowd bowed in turn.

Liu He personally poured black wine onto the ground and prayed: "Heaven and Earth, gods of mountains and rivers, have now dispatched the righteous army of Zhuojun to the north to punish the rebels. I humbly beseech your assistance to defeat the enemy, achieve victory, and swiftly proclaim triumph, so as to secure the state and pacify the borders!"

After the sacrificial ceremony, drums and horns sounded in unison. Liu Bei then bid farewell to Liu He and led more than 1,900 elite infantry and cavalrymen swiftly northward along the official road, making a great show of force with red flags waving and armor gleaming in the sun.

He was strict in disciplining his troops. After the army marched out of Zhuo County, he issued a strict order: the three armies should advance lightly and quickly, covering sixty li a day. The infantry should carry only the necessary armor, three days' worth of dry rations and water, and all other supplies should be loaded onto carts.

The cavalrymen took turns riding two horses, and neither the rider nor the horse removed its saddle.

He also strictly ordered all departments not to harass villages and towns along the way, and those who disobeyed would be executed.

Therefore, the army moved extremely fast, crossing the prefecture in just three days. Upon entering Guangyang, the scenery along the way became shocking, resembling a scene of chaos.

Abandoned villages, charred ruins, and barren fields can be seen everywhere.

Occasionally, there are corpses lying dead by the roadside, mostly dressed as commoners, interspersed with the corpses of thieves with yellow turbans wrapped around their heads. Crows circle around, cawing mournfully.

Before Liu Bei could even reflect on this, on the sixth day of the fourth month, his army had barely entered the territory of Guangyang County, less than twenty li away, when a scout brought news that a large contingent of government troops, seemingly state soldiers, had been spotted near Guangyang County. They were gathering their defeated soldiers, setting up camp in the city, and confronting the Yellow Turbans.