The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 362 Li Xiang never makes mistakes. If he is wrong, it must be because we misunderstand him.

In the sixth year of Zhangwu, spring arrived.

Liu Bei was reviewing memorials in the Deyang Palace when Li Yi rushed in, carrying an urgent military report.

"Your Majesty, an urgent report from Chengdu."

Li Yi presented the bamboo slips with both hands, his brows furrowed with a hint of solemnity.

Liu Bei took the scroll and unfolded it, his gaze sweeping over the scroll, his expression gradually changing.

After a long while, he sighed and gently placed the bamboo slips on the table.

"Cao Cao is dead."

The ministers standing in the hall were all taken aback upon hearing this.

Li Yi nodded slightly:

"A spy reports that Cao Cao died of illness at his temporary palace in Chengdu last winter."

Before his death, he summoned Cao Pi, Sima Yi, and others to entrust them with his affairs after his death.

When Li Yichu saw this report, he was also somewhat surprised.

Because Cao Cao in history lived to be sixty-six years old.

Logically, he should have died four years later.

For some reason, he died four years prematurely.

Could it be that his repeated setbacks and failures throughout his life have caused him to develop inner demons, thus affecting his mindset?

Because mindset is indeed one of the key factors affecting lifespan.

Liu Bei got up and walked to the window of the palace, gazing at the snowflakes falling gently outside, and remained silent for a long time.

The ruthless man who had fought against him for half his life passed away before him.

The past is like smoke, from the plum wine gathering to the Battle of Red Cliffs, from the standoff in Jingzhou to the struggle for the Central Plains.

Scenes flashed before my eyes.

"Pass the message to the court tomorrow."

Liu Bei finally spoke, his voice low and deep, "I wish to discuss this matter with all of you."

The next morning, all the civil and military officials gathered at Chongde Hall.

Liu Bei sat upright before his desk, surveyed his assembled ministers, and slowly said:
"Yesterday, we received news that King Cao Cao of Wei has passed away in Chengdu."

"Although I have been Cao Cao's enemy for half my life, his great talent and strategy make him a hero of our time."

"Upon hearing of his passing, I cannot help but feel sorrow."

There was silence in the hall.

Liu Bei continued:
"After Cao Cao died, his son Cao Pi succeeded him."

"What do you gentlemen think the court should do?"

Before the words were finished, the Minister of War, Taishi Ci, strode forward, cupped his hands, and said:

"Your Majesty, with Cao Cao's recent death, the Shu region is bound to be in turmoil."

"Your Majesty, I request to lead 50,000 elite troops into Hanzhong and directly seize Chengdu."

"This is a golden opportunity, we must not miss it!"

Before Liu Bei could reply, Lu Su stepped forward and offered his advice:

"No! Although Cao Cao is dead, his clan has deep roots."

"They will surely appoint Xiahou Dun, Cao Hong and others to guard key locations."

"Moreover, Sima Yi is by my side. This man is wise and shrewd, and quite cunning."

"Because of the Sima family's affairs, he will definitely devote himself to assisting Cao Pi."

"If we advance rashly at this time, we may find it difficult to win."

Upon hearing this, Taishi Ci's thick eyebrows furrowed:
"What do you mean by that!"

"If we don't advance now, when will we?"

"Once Cao Pi stabilizes the situation, it will be difficult to take Shu!"

Lu Su then said solemnly:

“Ziyi is brave and fierce, but war is a matter of great importance to the state; how can we act rashly?”

"Cao Cao had been managing the Shu region for many years. The city was well-defended, the food supplies were plentiful, and the Shu Road was a natural barrier."

"If our army goes deep into enemy territory alone, it will be difficult to supply food and provisions."

"Once you suffer a setback, you'll be caught in a dilemma, and it will be too late to regret it!"

"Moreover, throughout history, conquering Shu has never been an easy task."

"This matter requires further consideration."

The two were locked in a dispute when Liu Bei glanced at the assembled officials.

Seeing Xun You standing among the civil officials, his eyes gleaming with wisdom, as if he were deep in thought.

Liu Bei then asked, "Does Gongda have any insightful opinions?"

Xun You is sixty-one years old this year.

He also lived longer than his historical counterpart.

Logically speaking, at his age, he should rarely concern himself with matters of the court.

After all, at his age and with his reputation, all he needs to do is ensure a smooth landing.

The more you say, the more mistakes you make; what if you make a mistake?

It will only ruin his reputation and tarnish his honor in his later years.

However, since Liu Bei had asked, Xun You calmly stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said:

"Your Majesty, General Taishi wants a swift battle, while Minister Lu advocates caution."

"...Both of them make sense."

"However, I believe that if we only mobilize the Chinese army, it will be difficult to achieve victory quickly."

"We must use five armies to attack from all four sides."

"Only when Cao Pi is unable to provide assistance from both ends can we make our move."

A glint of light flashed in Liu Bei's eyes:
"Oh? I wonder which five routes?"

“Gongda, please explain in detail.”

Xun You unfolded the map in his hand and pointed it out:

"Firstly, one could write a letter and send a messenger to the Qiang tribe in Xiliang to meet with the Qiang chieftain."

"Bribe them with gold and silk, and order them to mobilize the Western Qiang troops to take Wudu by land first."

"The Qiang people are fierce and brave, and Cao Cao's army will have to divide its forces to resist them."

"Secondly, he wrote another letter and sent an envoy with official titles and rewards to the southern barbarians to meet with the barbarian king Meng Huo."

"Order the troops of the Southern Barbarians to attack the four prefectures of Yizhou, Yongchang, Zangke, and Yuexi."

"To attack the south of Xichuan."

"The barbarian soldiers are familiar with the terrain and can harass Cao Cao's rear."

"Thirdly, he sent an envoy to Jiaozhou and ordered Shi Xie, the governor of Jiaozhi, to flee west along the river and launch a fierce attack on Yizhou County."

(Yizhou has Yizhou County)
"Shi Xie has been stationed in Lingnan for a long time, with well-trained troops and sufficient supplies. He will surely be able to tie down part of Cao Cao's forces."

Fourth, he sent an envoy to the surrendered general Shen Yi, ordering him to raise troops from Shangyong and attack Hanzhong from the west.

“Shen Yi is known for his courage and strategy, and is familiar with the terrain of Hanzhong. He can serve as the vanguard for our army.”

Fifth, he ordered Ma Chao to raise troops in Guanzhong and join forces with Li Yan's troops in Liangzhou.

“From Jingzhao, we will pass through Yangping Pass and take Xichuan.”

"Ma Chao's power in Xiliang was enough to make Cao Cao's army tremble with fear."

After Xun You finished speaking, he cupped his hands and said:
"Advancing from five directions, with a total of 120,000 troops."

"Cao Pi was not a ruler who could govern a peaceful world; the only person he relied on was Sima Yi."

"Even if he possessed the talent of Lü Wang, how could he possibly be up to this task?"

After hearing this, Liu Bei nodded slightly and then looked around at his ministers.

"What do you think, sir?"

Liu Bei was quite satisfied with this suggestion.

Because there was no need to mobilize troops from the Central Plains, the Han Dynasty mainly used troops from Yong and Liang provinces.

That region already had the largest military expenditure.

Raise an army for a thousand days, use it for a while.

If you don't use it, you won't use it.

As for the other four routes, Liu Bei does not need to bear the burden of food and military expenses.

Therefore, for the Han army, winning would be the best outcome.

Even if we lose, there won't be much loss.

Liu Bei nodded and said solemnly:

"Since none of you have any objections, I will proceed accordingly."

"The cabinet is ordered to immediately draft regulations, and four eloquent officials are to be secretly dispatched as envoys."

"They were dispatched to the Qiang, Nanman, Jiaozhou, and Shangyong regions."

"Another imperial edict was issued to Ma Chao, ordering him to prepare his troops."

"We will join forces with Li Yan's troops and prepare to leave Yangping Pass."

"...I obey your order."

All the officials responded in unison.

After the court meeting ended, the snow fell even more heavily.

Liu Bei did not ride in the imperial carriage, but ordered two eunuchs to carry lanterns, and walked alone through the snow to Weiyang Palace.

Snowflakes landed on his eyebrows and quickly melted into water droplets.

The weather in Luoyang has always been like this.

"Send word to the Prime Minister."

After Liu Bei settled down in Weiyang Palace, he spoke to the Yellow Gate Attendant who was standing beside him.

Before long, Li Yi arrived in a hurry.

He was dressed in a crimson court robe, with a jade belt at his waist slightly askew, clearly having just stepped away from his busy official duties.

Seeing Liu Bei's solemn expression, Li Yi straightened his clothes and bowed respectfully:

"Your subject Li Yi greets Your Majesty."

Liu Bei stared at him for a long time before saying:

"Ziyu, why did you remain silent during today's court meeting?"

"You should know that you are the Prime Minister, the head of all officials."

"Such a major event has occurred in the State of Wei, yet you remain silent, which greatly disappoints me."

Li Yi then straightened up, but did not rush to defend himself.

He simply stood there quietly, letting the snowlight from the window reflect on his thin face.

He is 44 years old this year.

I've been in this world for over twenty years now.

He is no longer the spirited young man he once was.

Instead, her temples were now streaked with white, and the fine lines around her eyes were as deep as if carved by a knife.

"……His Majesty."

After a long silence, Li Yi finally spoke.

"It is not that I do not wish to speak, but that I am unsure whether or not we should send troops to Wei."

Liu Bei frowned and said in a deep voice:

"You are my right-hand man, your plans are flawless, and your wisdom is unparalleled."

How could you not be sure?

"Your Majesty is wise."

Li Yi sighed softly, "If we talk about military strategy and tactics, I am not as good as Xun Gongda."

"In terms of assessing the situation and making judgments, I am no match for Lu Zijing."

"Furthermore, I have been busy with educational affairs recently and have not had a deep understanding of the situation in Wei."

Liu Bei pretended not to hear the first two humble remarks.

Clearly, Li Yi's last sentence was the key point he wanted to make.

During this period, Li Yi devoted all his energy to education.

This meant reforming the recommendation system to pave the way for the imperial examination system for selecting officials.

This consumed a great deal of Li Yi's energy and time.

Therefore, he rarely interferes in foreign affairs, which can be considered a decentralization.

Just as Xun You proposed the idea of ​​launching a five-pronged attack on Shu.

In Li Yi's view, whether it will succeed is hard to say.

But whether it succeeds or not, it's worth a try.

After all, the Han Dynasty only mobilized troops from the Yong and Liang regions, which was already the bulk of the military expenditure.

Winning is a gain, and losing isn't a huge loss.

You can confidently delegate the task to your subordinates.

Liu Bei's expression softened slightly, and he gestured for Li Yi to sit down:
"In your opinion, my dear minister, is Gongda's plan of launching five armies likely to succeed?"

Li Yi sat on the embroidered stool, his hands folded in front of his knees, and pondered:

"Hard to say."

"Oh?" Liu Bei raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"The five-pronged approach seems comprehensive, but in reality, it is difficult to coordinate the various forces involved."

Li Yi analyzed, "Although the Qiang and Nanman are brave, they cannot last long."

“Jiaozhou Shixie has always been indecisive and may not be willing to exert his full strength.”

“Shangyong Shenyi has only recently surrendered, and his loyalty is questionable.”

"Only Ma Chao's army can be relied upon, but the troops in Guanzhong are few and I'm afraid they can't shoulder the great responsibility alone."

Liu Bei nodded thoughtfully:

"...Ziyu's concerns are not without merit."

"But you just said you were busy with education and administration. What important matter has made you so busy that you have no time for even matters of state?"

When this matter was mentioned, Li Yi's eyes suddenly lit up:
"Your Majesty, please allow me to report. I have recently been actively promoting the establishment of schools and private academies."

"He is now dealing with the major aristocratic families regarding the reform of the official selection system."

"I remember you once submitted a memorial on this matter."

Liu Bei recalled, "How is it progressing now?"

Li Yi gave a helpless, bitter smile and sighed:

"...There are many obstacles."

"Last year, I established a new system for recommending candidates for the civil service examination."

"Of the ten candidates for the title of 'filial and incorruptible' in each prefecture, three must be from poor families."

"In addition, it was previously stipulated that all candidates who were filial and incorruptible must pass an examination before they could be granted official positions."

“Those powerful families outwardly agree, but inwardly they are disobedient.”

"I cannot attend to every detail, and I have been extremely busy with this matter lately."

Upon hearing this, Liu Bei frowned again:

"Is there such a thing?"

“Last month, Nanyang County recommended twelve candidates for the civil service examination, all of whom were from prominent families.”

“This not only violates the number of names, but also goes against the new regulations I have set.”

"The reply below said that they really couldn't find any talented people from humble backgrounds, and I have now sent Shiyuan to Nanyang to investigate this matter."

"Jinan Prefecture did recommend two people from humble backgrounds, but they were distant relatives of local powerful families."

"Their family owns more farmland than even minor noble families."

As Li Yi spoke, his tone carried a mixture of suppressed anger and helplessness.

“Even worse, some openly declare that ‘there are no refined scholars in poor families’ and refuse to recommend children from poor families.”

"presumptuous!!'

Liu Bei slammed his hand on the table and stood up, pacing back and forth in the study.

"Do these people think I'm too benevolent, and therefore dare not cooperate with my prime minister in implementing new policies?"

Li Yi quickly advised:

"Your Majesty, calm down."

“These powerful families have been entrenched in the area for hundreds of years, and their influence is so strong that they are difficult to shake in a short time.”

"Reform cannot be rushed."

Even a powerful emperor like Emperor Guangwu (Liu Xiu) implemented a land survey system to reorganize the land and population of aristocratic families.

They almost capsized in a ditch and lost the Han dynasty's territory.

Therefore, Li Yi consistently adopted a strategy of gradually weakening powerful families by slowly incubating them.

Taking too big a step will lead to the next Wang Mang.

Everything needs to be done slowly.

Liu Bei stopped and gazed at Li Yi's weary face, then suddenly sighed:

"Ziyu, you've worked too hard."

As he spoke, he personally poured Li Yi a cup of hot tea.

"Reforming the system for selecting officials is certainly not something that can be accomplished overnight, but I know your intentions."

"It is a loss for the country to have talented people from poor families buried in obscurity."

Li Yi took the teacup with both hands, a hint of weariness flashing in his eyes.

"...Your Majesty is wise."

"In my opinion, the key to governing a country lies in acquiring the right people."

“If the system for selecting officials is not changed, talented people from poor families will never have a chance to rise in the ranks, and the court will eventually be controlled by powerful families.”

"What you say is absolutely right."

Liu Bei sat back on the dragon throne, his tone firm, "No matter what, I will always be your strongest support."

"If any powerful family dares to obstruct the new policies, I will not let them off lightly!"

Li Yi rose and bowed solemnly:
"Your Majesty, I thank you for your trust."

"With Your Majesty's words, I would gladly give my life, even at the cost of my life."

"Alright, alright," Liu Bei waved his hand and laughed, "Tell me, what are your plans for implementing the new policies next?"

Li Yi sat down again and took out a scroll of bamboo slips from his sleeve, presenting it to him:

"This year is the sixth year of Zhangwu."

"As the New Year approaches, I have drafted the 'Order to Promote Education'."

"We intend to establish official schools in various prefectures and counties to recruit students from poor families."

"An examination called 'Mingjing Ke' was also set up. Those who passed it could be directly appointed to official positions, bypassing the system of recommendation for filial piety and integrity."

"...Hiss, if we bypass the recommendation system for filial piety and integrity, will those powerful clans agree to it?"

"Moreover, establishing official schools is extremely costly; can the national treasury support it?"

Li Yi was prepared and said:

"I have consulted with the cabinet and we have decided to start by implementing this measure in the prosperous regions of Ji and Jing provinces."

"We will promote it nationwide after we see results."

"Furthermore, the existing schools in each prefecture and county can be repaired and utilized, and it is not necessary to build new ones all at once."

Li Yi continued to adopt a mild approach.

Knowing that your aristocratic family would object, I'll reduce the scale and the number of participants, is that alright?

Do you powerful and wealthy families who control land and people not even give the imperial court this much face?
In short, Li Yi was poisoning the aristocratic families with a slow-acting poison.

The day they die from the poison will be the day Li Yiguan implements his new policies.

"Furthermore, I believe that 'officials to encourage learning' should be established in each prefecture to supervise students' studies."

"This is also to encourage children from poor families to study for a living and pursue official careers."

The emperor and his minister then talked for a long time.

It wasn't until the palace lanterns were almost out and the eunuchs came to add oil that Liu Bei realized it was already late.

"It's getting late, Ziyu, you should go back and rest."

Liu Bei said with concern, "I see you don't look well. You must not overwork yourself."

Li Yi rose to take his leave:

"My minister retire."

"Your Majesty, please take care of your health."

……

Summer of the sixth year of Zhangwu.

The city of Chengdu was sweltering with summer heat.

Since ascending the throne, Cao Pi, the King of Wei, has been engaged in large-scale construction projects, expanding palaces and mansions in an attempt to showcase the grandeur of his new dynasty.

On this day, he was discussing matters with his close advisors in the newly built Wenchang Hall.

Suddenly, a guard rushed in from outside the palace, knelt down, and urgently reported:

"Your Majesty! Urgent report from the border!"

"Liu Bei of Qi mobilized five armies to launch a coordinated attack and seize Xichuan."

Upon hearing this, Cao Pi dropped the bunch of grapes in his hand with a "thud," scattering several grapes on the ground.

He suddenly stood up and said sternly:
"Report in detail!"

The guard's forehead was beaded with sweat, and his voice trembled slightly:

"The first route: Ma Chao raised troops in Guanzhong, joined forces with Li Yan's troops in Liangzhou, and headed straight for Yangping Pass."

"The second route was led by the surrendered general Shen Yi, who raised troops in Shangyong and advanced to invade Hanzhong."

"The third route, led by Shi Xie of Jiaozhou, raised troops from Lingnan, marched along the Xishui River, and attacked Yizhou County."

"The fourth route, led by the barbarian king Meng Huo, raised troops of the southern barbarians and invaded the four prefectures of Yizhou, Yongchang, Zangke, and Yuexi."

"The fifth force, led by the King of the Western Qiang, has raised Qiang troops and is attacking Xiping Pass!"

"Five armies are coming in with overwhelming force!" These words caused an uproar throughout the hall.

Cao Pi's expression changed drastically, and he slumped onto his throne, remaining silent for a long time.

Shortly afterward, Cao Pi urgently summoned all civil and military officials to the palace for a meeting.

Before long, all the officials gathered in the Wenchang Hall, their faces filled with worry.

Cao Pi surveyed his ministers and said in a deep voice:

"...My beloved ministers."

"Liu Bei is launching a five-pronged attack against us. What good strategies do you all have?"

Before the words were finished, Peng Yang stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said:
"Your Majesty, Liu Bei's forces are overwhelming, advancing on five fronts simultaneously, making it difficult for our army to defend against them all."

"It would be better to send envoys to sue for peace and temporarily avoid confrontation."

"Wait until they withdraw their troops, then devise a plan for the future."

Upon hearing this, officials from the Yizhou faction readily echoed his sentiments.
"What Lord Peng said is absolutely right!"

"Liu Bei's army is at its strongest; if we resist forcefully, there will be a great loss of life!"

Clearly, the officials in Shu were somewhat flustered in the face of the Han Dynasty's five armies.

They did not believe that the State of Wei was capable of simultaneously dividing its forces to repel five enemy armies.

"absurd!"

A furious shout, as loud as thunder, drew everyone's attention.

General Xiahou Dun's single eye was wide open, his hair and beard bristling, as he sternly shouted:

"You have received great favors from the late king, yet now that a formidable enemy is at hand, you do not think of serving your country."

"To instead kneel and surrender to the enemy, is that not the act of a coward who fears death?"

Xiahou Dun was telling the truth. Cao Cao had wronged many people, but he had not wronged the local powerful clans.

They essentially tacitly approved of their land annexation and rampant wealth accumulation.

Unexpectedly, with a formidable enemy at hand, they all turned out to be cowards who feared death.

Peng Yang's expression changed slightly, but he still insisted:

"General Xiahou, it is not that we are afraid of battle, but that the enemy outnumbers us."

"If we rashly engage in battle, we may find it difficult to protect our nation!"

Cao Pi was also afraid of Liu Bei's growing power, but if he surrendered now, wouldn't he be handing over the Cao Wei kingdom?

He's only just taken office; he hasn't even had a chance to settle in yet.

He frowned, hesitant.

Just then, a man in the corner of the hall spoke coldly:
"Anyone who surrenders to the emperor may be taken out and beheaded!"

Everyone was startled and looked in the direction of the sound.

Grand Commandant Sima Yi stood below the steps, his face ashen and his eyes gleaming with a chilling light.

Seeing Sima Yi speak, Cao Pi felt somewhat relieved and quickly asked:

"What are your brilliant ideas, Zhongda?"

Sima Yi stepped forward slowly, cupped his hands, and said:

"Don't worry, Your Majesty."

"Let the Qi state come from all directions, we will just go along one path."

"Although Liu Bei attacked from five directions, each of his armies had its own weaknesses—"

"Although Ma Chao is brave, there are few soldiers in Guanzhong, so he is not a threat."

"Shen Yi has just surrendered, and the morale of the army is not yet secure."

"Shi Xie is far away in Jiaozhou, and his army is moving slowly."

"Although Meng Huo's barbarian troops were numerous, they were all a disorganized mob and could hardly pose a threat."

"The Qiang soldiers are fierce and brave, but they lack the ability to besiege cities."

"The five routes may seem powerful, but in reality they each have their own agendas. Our army only needs to divide its forces and defend them."

"Wait until they fall into chaos, then seize the opportunity to counterattack; we will surely defeat them!"

“Zhongda,” Cao Pi said in a deep voice, “even so, it is still five armies pressing in.”

"Now that opinions are divided, and you have expressed your decision, do you have any good solutions?"

Sima Yi slowly stepped forward, bowed respectfully, his eyes flashing with a hidden glint, and said slowly:

"Don't worry, Your Majesty."

"I have a plan that will make the five armies retreat without a fight."

As soon as this statement came out, the whole palace was in an uproar.

Many people looked disdainful, thinking to themselves that the five armies were coming in a fierce manner and could not be easily retreated.

Sima Yi smiled calmly:
"None of you gentlemen understand the subtleties of military strategy."

"Warfare is based on deception; its value lies in keeping people guessing. How can it be revealed to others?"

Cao Pi leaned forward and said urgently:

"Zhongda, quickly bring me the way!"

Sima Yi remained calm and extended one finger:
"Firstly, the King of the Western Qiang led his troops to attack Xiping Pass."

“The Qiang people value profit over righteousness. We only need to send an envoy with a hundred bolts of Shu brocade and a thousand taels of gold to bribe them into withdrawing their troops.”

"Then there is nothing to worry about on this route."

Cao Pi frowned and pondered:

"The Ruoqiang people are greedy and fickle; what should we do?"

Sima Yi smiled slightly:
"Although the Qiang people are greedy, their tribes are numerous and do not submit to each other."

"Simply bribe the king generously, and then secretly send spies to spread rumors."

"If the other tribes want to seize his position, he will certainly not dare to stay on the border for long."

Cao Pi nodded:

“Excellent! Send an envoy immediately.”

"Second."

Sima Yi then extended two fingers and continued:

"The Southern Barbarians, led by Meng Huo, invaded four prefectures."

“The barbarian soldiers are brave but lack strategy. Deng Ai can lead three thousand light cavalry.”

"Left out, right in; right out, left in—this is a feint."

“Meng Huo is suspicious by nature. If he sees our army moving erratically, he will not dare to advance lightly.”

Cao Pi pondered for a moment and said:

"Deng Ai is young and may not be able to shoulder such a great responsibility."

Sima Yi said calmly:

"Although Deng Ai was young, he was well-versed in military strategy and also had a good understanding of terrain and geography."

"Perfect for operations in the southern border."
"Moreover, after the death of the late king, the generals who followed him in establishing the dynasty died one after another in battle or grew old."

"Young people have to step up."

The implication was that Sima Yi hoped Cao Pi would give more opportunities to young people.

Give them some training.

"I guarantee with my life that this plan will succeed."

Sima Yi himself greatly admired Deng Ai and strongly recommended him to Cao Pi.

Cao Pi then slammed his fist on the table and said:

"Very well! Then let us do as Zhongda says and order Deng Ai to send troops immediately!"

Sima Yi slightly raised three fingers:
Thirdly, Shen Yi led the troops from Shangyong to invade Hanzhong.

"This man is fickle and has a past relationship with Meng Da, the prefect of Yidu."

"We can have Meng Da write a letter and send it to Shen Yi through his trusted confidant, explaining the advantages and disadvantages."

"Upon seeing the letter, Shen Yi will feign illness and refuse to leave the army, so as to demoralize the troops."

A glint of light flashed in Cao Pi's eyes:
Is Meng Da trustworthy?

“When my father was alive, this man was suspected of having an army and being too powerful in Yidu.”

"My late father always wanted to take it, but he gave up because the Shu region was not yet at peace."

"We intend to employ him now, but we do not know if he is trustworthy."

Sima Yi said in a low voice:

"Meng Da is a man who knows how to adapt to the times; how could he dare to disobey Your Majesty?"

"Now that they are entrenched in Dongchuan and have resources on both sides, they will certainly not dare to betray Your Majesty."

"Furthermore, if Shen Yi withdraws, Meng Da will also have made a great contribution, and he will certainly do his best."

Cao Pi hesitated for a long time, then said in a deep voice:

"Good! Immediately order Meng Da to write a letter, instructing him to withdraw Shen Yi's troops."

Sima Yi slightly raised four fingers:
Fourth, Ma Chao's army attacked Yangping Pass.

"This place is treacherous; we only need to order Jiang Ji to hold his ground and not fight."

"Ma Chao's siege was unsuccessful, and the transport of grain and supplies in Guanzhong was also difficult, so he soon retreated."

Xiahou Dun frowned and said:

“Ma Chao is brave and fierce. If we launch a strong attack on the pass, I fear Jiang Ji will not be able to hold out for long.”

Sima Yi said calmly:

"Although Ma Chao is brave, his army is on a long expedition and its advantage lies in a quick battle."

"If this is delayed, their morale will surely collapse."

"and--"

His gaze turned cold. "Ma Chao has a long-standing feud with the people of Liangzhou."

"If the Qiang soldiers retreat first, their flanks will be vulnerable, and they will not dare to linger."

"If Your Majesty is still worried that you cannot fully protect the country, you may secretly transfer Generals Yue Jin and Wang Ping again."

"Each of them led 5,000 troops and stationed them in strategic locations to provide support for other routes."

"This transfer must not pass through Chengdu, lest spies in Sichuan discover it."

Cao Pi nodded and said:

"Zhongda's considerations are thorough, which greatly comforts me!"

Sima Yi concluded by saying:

"As for Shi Xie's group in Jiaozhou, he originally did not want to get involved in the struggle for the Central Plains."

"It's just that I dare not do anything because of Liu Bei's orders."

“I can personally write a letter and send it to Jiaozhi to explain the advantages and disadvantages.”

"If the four armies retreat, Shi Xie will certainly not dare to advance alone."

Cao Pi was overjoyed and rose to praise him:
"Zhongda's talent surpasses that of Zhang Liang and Chen Ping!"

Sima Yi bowed deeply, his eyes unfathomable.

"I have only done my best to serve the king, and I dare not accept Your Majesty's high praise."

Once the order was given, each department proceeded in an orderly manner and carried out the order accordingly.

Meng Da, the governor of Yidu, received an order from Cao Pi and wrote a letter to Shen Yi as an old friend.

It was immediately sent to Shangyong.

The book states briefly:

Dear Brother Yi:

"Years have passed since we last met, and I am deeply worried to hear that my brother is leading troops into battle."

"The Qi army has not avenged the murder of my brother, and now they are leading the charge. This is not the way of loyalty and righteousness."

The reason the court kept you in Shangyong was simply because you still had several thousand clansmen and followers.

"I am sending you, brother, as the vanguard, in order to use you as a tool to kill someone."

“When your troops are almost completely wiped out, that will be the time to discard your bow after you've used up all your birds.”

"As your brother sees it, you should delay your advance, preserve your strength, and only then can you establish yourself in this chaotic world."

Upon receiving Meng Da's letter, Shen Yi indeed became suspicious and dared not advance his troops rashly.

They instructed the troops to march slowly, feigning an attack on Hanzhong.

At the same time, Sima Yi also wrote a letter and sent it to Jiaozhi County.

It was given to Shi Xie, the governor of Jiaozhi.

The book states briefly:

To: Prefect Shi Gong of Jiaozhi

"I bow my head and respectfully write this letter to Your Excellency in Jiaozhou."

"I have long heard that Your Excellency is of high moral character and great prestige, and that you govern the southern frontier with your authority over the Baiyue people."

"It is a blessing for Lingnan that the people of Jiaozhou can live and work in peace and contentment and that merchants and travelers come in an endless stream."

"Ran Yi recently heard about something that greatly indignant on behalf of the Prefect—"

"The imperial court actually sent Zhuge Liang to be the governor of Jiaozhou and set up the Maritime Trade Office, thus seizing the governor's power and interests."

Isn't this a case of crossing the river and then burning the bridge?

"The Prefect has governed Jiaozhou for decades, winning the hearts of the people and gaining the respect of the entire nation."

"The peace and security of Jiaozhou is due to the efforts of the Prefect, and who else but you?"

"However, the court did not remember the past favors, but instead sent Zhuge Liang south."

"It's called a reduction in authority, but in reality, it's a decentralization of power."

"They even set up a foreign port to seize the profits of the prefect's maritime trade."

"Isn't this a tactic of pressing forward step by step, trying to force the Prefect to surrender?"

"I have long heard that the Prefect is benevolent and does not wish for the people of Jiaozhou to be plunged into the flames of war."

"Therefore, although he was ordered by Liu Bei, he had no choice but to advance the troops under duress."

"However, Your Excellency is already very old and should be enjoying your remaining years in peace."

"The imperial court has ordered the Prefect to travel thousands of miles to fight and shed blood for the Liu family. Is this the behavior of a benevolent person?"

"Liu Bei claimed to be a member of the Han imperial family, yet he was so harsh on the meritorious officials who had protected Lingnan for decades."

"To seize power and yet also to command others—how can this be reasonable?"

As the saying goes, a wise man is not used by others, and a brave man is not driven by others.

"Your Excellency is wise beyond your years; how can you allow yourself to be manipulated at this time?"

"If Your Excellency postpones your advance and observes the situation, then..."

"Yi can guarantee that Wei will never invade an inch of Jiaozhou."

“When the situation in the world becomes clear in the future, the Prefect can still enjoy the power of Jiaozhou.”

Why make wedding clothes for others?

"I hope Your Excellency will reconsider."

"Wei Grand Commandant Sima Yi bows deeply and pays his respects twice."

After reading the letter, Shi Xie pondered for a long time.

Finally, he let out a long sigh and said to those around him:

"Sima Yi's words, though intended to sow discord, were not without merit."

"I only wish to preserve Jiaozhou and have no desire to plunge the people of Lingnan into the flames of war."

"Today's advance is only due to the circumstances, and is certainly not my original intention."

"Since Wei is willing to make peace, why should I continue to wait for orders?"

Then, a few days later...

As expected, the Jiaozhou army slowed its advance, making only symbolic movements and no longer making a full-scale northward march.

……

Jiaozhou, Cangwu Commandery.

The heat and humidity in Lingnan during the height of summer were unbearable, inside the governor's mansion.

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan, and several military reports were spread out on his desk.

The cicadas chirped noisily outside the window, but they couldn't hide the seriousness in his eyes.

Chief Secretary Zhang Hong, holding a newly arrived document, strode into the hall, cupped his hands, and said:
"My lord, an urgent report from the court—"

"His Majesty has dispatched five armies to attack Wei: Ma Chao, Shen Yi, Meng Huo, and the Qiang tribes."

"And my Jiaozhou is also among those to be mobilized."

Zhuge Liang took the document, his eyes flashing like lightning as he quickly scanned it.

He then sighed softly:
"...Alas, this campaign will likely be in vain."

Zhang Hong was taken aback and quickly asked:

"Why do you say that, my lord?"

"Advancing from five directions simultaneously, with tremendous momentum."

"Wei has just lost Cao Cao, so it is the perfect time to take advantage of the situation and seize it."

Zhuge Liang shook his head, lightly tapped the map on the table with his feather fan, and explained to Zhang Hong:
"The five armies, though seemingly powerful, each have their own drawbacks."

"Firstly, although Ma Chao's army in Guanzhong is brave, the transportation of supplies is difficult, and they will inevitably be exhausted after a long battle."

"Secondly, the Qiang people value profit over righteousness, and will retreat at the slightest bribe."

Thirdly, Shen Yi is fickle and unreliable; how could he possibly fight to the death for the court?

Fourth, Meng Huo was brave but lacked strategy, making him vulnerable to feints.

At this point, Zhuge Liang's gaze fell upon the Jiaozhou area, and he smiled slightly:
"As for my journey through Jiaozhou..."

"Shi Xie managed Lingnan for decades, and was a shrewd and calculating man."

"He is most skilled in the art of survival."

"The court ordered him to send troops, but he merely went through the motions. How could he possibly be willing to shed blood and sweat for our lord?"

Zhang Hong frowned and said in a deep voice:

"If that's the case, wouldn't the five armies be rendered useless?"

Zhuge Liang lightly waved his feather fan:
"...Indeed."

"The army's forces are not well-coordinated, and they move hesitantly in formation like geese."

"Although Cao Cao is dead, Wei still has capable people."

"Sima Yi, Cheng Yu, Cao Hong, and others were no ordinary people."

"If you can see through this situation, you must have a solution."

Zhang Hong pondered for a moment, then asked:
"Knowing that the five routes are difficult to conquer, why does the court still mobilize so many troops? Isn't it just a waste of money and resources?"

Zhuge Liang's eyes were deep as he sighed:
"This is political intimidation."

"The new ruler of Wei has just ascended the throne, and the court is not yet stable. Your Majesty intends to use five armies to intimidate him."

"If the Wei people become cowardly and disorderly, our army can take advantage of the situation and enter."

"If they are not afraid, there will be no great loss."

Why not?

He paused and then said:
"Moreover, the imperial court can also use this opportunity to test the strength of various factions—"

"Even if we lose this battle, we can still gain a clearer understanding of the global chess game, which may not necessarily be a bad thing."

Zhang Hong suddenly realized, clapped his hands, and exclaimed:
"I see! No wonder Prime Minister Li didn't object to the advance."

When Li Yi was mentioned, a hint of admiration flashed in Zhuge Liang's eyes.

"Prime Minister Li is a rare talent of our time. His actions may seem casual, but in reality, he plans every step carefully."

“He never makes a mistake. If we feel that he is wrong, it must be because we have failed to understand the mystery.”

Zhang Hong spent most of his time in Lingnan and rarely got involved in matters concerning the Central Plains.

"You have worked with Prime Minister Li for many years; do you know his methods of employing people?"

Zhuge Liang smiled slightly:
"When Li Xiang employs people, the most important thing is 'controllability'."

"Take Ma Chao for example. He is brave, but his temperament is like a raging fire."

"Therefore, let them go out of Guanzhong. If they win, they can expand their territory; if they lose, their foundation will not be damaged."

“If Shen Yi is fickle, then let him attack Hanzhong. If he succeeds, he will gain merit; if he fails, he will give the court a handle to use against him.”

"As for Shi Xie..."

He paused, his feather fan stilled, and said meaningfully:
"Perhaps Prime Minister Li knew all along that Shi Xie wouldn't send out his full force, yet he still ordered him to head north, simply to get him to make a statement..."

Just then, a personal guard came to report:
"My lord, the governor of Jiaozhi, Shi Xie, has sent an envoy to request an audience!"

Zhuge Liang and Zhang Hong exchanged a glance and smiled:

"Sure enough, it's here."

In a moment,

A trusted confidant of the scholar entered, bowed respectfully, and presented a secret letter.

“My lord instructed me to personally inform the magistrate that the Jiaozhou army has already marched north in accordance with the imperial court’s orders.”

"However, the Lingnan region was plagued by miasma, which slowed down the army's advance."

"Fearing that this might delay our battle plans, I humbly request that Your Excellency intervene on my behalf."

Zhuge Liang unfolded the letter, glanced at its contents, and understood immediately.

Shih-hsieh is determined to "give up" completely.

He remained calm and spoke gently:
"Reply to Lord Shi that I am aware of the matter and will report it to the court truthfully."

After the envoy withdrew, Zhang Hong whispered:
"Shi Xie indeed did a perfunctory job."

Zhuge Liang sighed softly:
"...An old fox is still an old fox after all."

"But this is for the best. It will save Jiaozhou from war and spare the people from suffering."

He paused, then turned to look at Zhang Hong.

A meaningful smile appeared on his face.

"However, as the governor of Jiaozhou, Liang should share the burdens of the court."

"What does Your Excellency wish to do?"

Zhuge Liang looked at the various kinds of sweet fruits laid out on the table and smiled slightly:

"I've heard that Cao Pi, the ruler of Wei, likes to eat sweets?"

……

(End of this chapter)