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

Chapter 366 Like begets like, which of Liu Bei's sons knows how to dig a hole?
Meanwhile, Liu Bei officially announced that he would be going to inspect the counties in Henan on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month.

Before leaving, Zhao Yun suddenly told Li Yi that some ministers in the court were not behaving themselves.

"Prime Minister, I am worried that with neither His Majesty nor you in Luoyang during this county tour, the political situation may change."

"Now Wu and Wei are eyeing us covetously, and the Western Qiang are restless. If another conflict breaks out in the court..."

"I'm afraid there will be more bloodshed and suffering for the people."

Zhao Yun sighed and said.

Li Yi raised his hand to stop him from speaking:
"...Zilong's concerns are absolutely correct."

"But before we can conquer Wu, we must first examine the recovery of people's livelihoods in Henan."

"Although His Majesty did not say it explicitly, I know that he already has the intention to attack Wu, but the time is not yet right."

A hint of surprise flashed in Zhao Yun's eyes:
"Has the Prime Minister already presented His Majesty with a plan to destroy Wu?"

"good."

Li Yi, with his hands behind his back, sighed:
"Today, our fate rests in the hands of the Han; the destruction of Wu and Wei is only a matter of time."

"This matter is neither difficult nor easy."

"During that meeting that night, I proposed a strategy of dividing our forces into three routes to advance into Eastern Wu."

"One force marched out of Jiangling to attack Chaisang, another out of Hefei to attack Ruxu, and the third out of the navy to sail down the river."

"But His Majesty refused, citing the people's poverty and hardship."

Zhao Yun pondered for a long time, then sighed:

"The Prime Minister's advance is aimed at destroying the Wu Kingdom in one fell swoop."

"This plan is ingenious, but it would require at least 200,000 people, and the amount of food and supplies would be enormous."

"Sufficient supplies are indeed needed from Henan, Jingbei and other places."

If we want to attack Wu, we can't do without the help of Henan.

Because if a real war breaks out, grain can basically only be transported from here.

Why not transport grain from other states and counties?
It's still a problem of food and fodder loss.

No matter how wealthy Hebei is, by the time you transport the goods to Jiangnan, they will have been almost completely depleted.

Its cost is astronomical.

Let's take the example of transporting grain from Langya during the Qin Dynasty.

The straight-line distance between Langya in Xuzhou and Beihe is more than 1,000 kilometers.

During their journey, the grain transport teams had to cross the Taihang Mountains and Qinling Mountains, pass through the Loess Plateau, and enter the Inner Mongolian Plateau.

I crossed the Yellow River twice.

The loss rate during this period was an astonishing 99.5%.

In other words, of the 300,000 bushels of grain transported there, less than 2,000 bushels were left.

Of course, this is just a rather extreme example.

However, this also reflects the high rate of grain and fodder loss in ancient times.

It's no wonder that Zhuge Liang almost always lost his northern expeditions due to the problem of supplies.

Inefficient grain transportation costs were extremely detrimental in ancient societies where agriculture was underdeveloped.

Although the Han Dynasty made progress in productivity compared to the Qin Dynasty, it did not transcend social classes.

Although the destination was not as far as Langya to Beihe, ancient grains did not have an unlimited shelf life.

It is difficult to store them for a long time.

Therefore, if a war were to break out with the State of Wu, the main reliance would be on supplies from the Henan region.

This can greatly reduce the cost of transporting grain and forage.

On second thought, perhaps some insightful people in the court had also recognized the opportune moment to attack Wu.

They only started to get restless at this time because they knew that the scholars of Henan had a chance to rise up.
"Your Majesty refused to attack Wu in order to be considerate of the people's strength."

"This inspection tour of the counties, ostensibly to examine the people's conditions, was actually to assess the material foundation for the campaign against Wu."

"I see."

Zhao Yun suddenly realized, then became worried again, "But what about Luoyang...?"

"With Lu Zijing and Xun Gongda in charge, there shouldn't be any major trouble in the short term."

"Both of these men have followed His Majesty for many years and enjoy great prestige in the court."

"We'll be back in Henan in a month or two, so nothing will happen to us."

"Besides..."

Li Yi changed the subject and continued:

"Both Yun Chang and Yi De hold significant military power in the capital region."

"The two generals are loyal to His Majesty. With them around, petty villains won't be able to cause any trouble."

Upon hearing the names of Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun's expression softened slightly.

The prestige of these two founding veterans was indeed enough to deter any ill-intentioned individuals.

"Well, it's getting late."

"Zilong, you should go back and rest early. We'll be heading to Henan in a few days."

"Yes, Your Excellency, please take good care of yourself as well."

Zhao Yun bowed respectfully and took his leave of Li Yi.

A few days later, it was the fifteenth day of the first lunar month.

Banners fluttered in the breeze on the official road outside Luoyang, where three thousand Imperial Guards stood in formation.

As dawn broke, Liu Bei's imperial carriage slowly drove out of the gates of Luoyang, the Han banners fluttering in the morning breeze.

"Your Majesty, all the counties in Henan have received the imperial decree and have made preparations to welcome you along the way."

Li Yi rode his horse closer to the imperial carriage and bowed to report.

Liu Bei nodded slightly and leaned half his body out of the imperial carriage.

"Ziyu, the people of Henan have suffered under the tyrant Cao for too long."

"Even after five years of recuperation, I am still worried."

"This inspection tour of the counties serves two purposes: first, to observe the people's livelihood, and second..."

He paused, then turned his gaze to the southeast. "It's time to see how those two children are doing in their fiefdom."

Zhao Yun spurred his horse forward, his silver armor gleaming coldly in the morning sun, and, holding his spear horizontally, clasped his hands in a fist salute, saying:
"Your Majesty, both the Prince of Lu and the Prince of Liang are exceptionally intelligent and have capable ministers to assist them."

"I'm sure it won't disappoint His Majesty."

Liu Bei sighed softly and reached out to touch the sword at his waist.

"Zilong, governing a country is no child's play."

"When I swore brotherhood with Guan Yu and Zhang Fei in the Peach Garden, did I ever imagine that things would turn out this way?"

"now……"

Before he could finish speaking, he suddenly coughed, and Li Yi quickly handed him a silk handkerchief.

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

Li Yi frowned slightly. "The wind is strong in Henan. We should return to the palace to rest."

Liu Bei waved his hand and wiped the water from the corner of his mouth:

"It doesn't matter."

"Pass down the order to speed up the journey; we must arrive in Lu by tomorrow."

Two days later, at the ten-mile-long pavilion outside the city of Lu.

Sixteen-year-old King Liu Yong of Lu, dressed in a crimson royal robe and wearing a traveler's crown, led the civil and military officials of Lu in a line to wait.

The spring breeze caressed his face and lifted the silk ribbons hanging from his crown.

Behind him, Lu State Chancellor Zhuge Jin and his officials stood silently.

"Report! The Emperor's entourage has arrived five miles away!"

A scout arrived on horseback with the news.

Liu Yong straightened his clothes, a hint of nervousness and anticipation flashing in his eyes.

This was his first audience with the emperor in his own country since being crowned king.

Since taking up his fief, he has worked diligently to govern the country, waiting for this day to demonstrate his achievements to his father, the emperor.

Before long, dust rose in the distance, and banners fluttered in the wind.

With the Imperial Guards leading the way, Liu Bei's imperial carriage slowly approached.

Liu Yong immediately led the crowd to kneel and pay homage:

"Your subject Liu Yong respectfully welcomes Your Majesty's arrival!"

"The officials of Lu wish His Majesty a long life! Long life! Long live the Emperor!"

The imperial carriage stopped, and Liu Bei, supported by Li Yi, slowly walked out.

His gaze swept over the kneeling crowd, finally settling on Liu Yong:
"Flat body."

Liu Yong stood up, his face beaming with youthful vigor, and strode forward.

"Father, you must be tired from your journey. Your son has prepared a banquet at the Prince's residence to welcome you back and wash away the dust of your journey."

As he spoke, he bypassed Li Yi and Zhao Yun and reached out to help Liu Bei.

The air suddenly solidified.

Li Yi's expression remained unchanged, though he lowered his eyes slightly.

Zhao Yun straightened his back, and his silver armor made a slight clanging sound.

Liu Bei's face darkened, and he shook off Liu Yong's hand:

"Yong'er, do you still have eyes for Prime Minister Li and General Zhao?"

"My son..."

Liu Yong was taken aback, and then realized his rudeness.

"Prime Minister Li is my right-hand man, and Zilong is my sworn brother!"

Liu Bei's voice was not loud, but every word he spoke was like a hammer blow.

"You should treat them as you would your own uncles! How can you be so rude?"

Liu Yong blushed deeply and quickly turned to Li Yi and Zhao Yun, bowing deeply to the ground.
"I am young and ignorant, and have offended you two uncles. I hope you will forgive me."

Why is Liu Yong so rude?

This young man was born into wealth and privilege, and was made a prince at the age of eleven, without experiencing any setbacks.

In his own fiefdom, everyone treated him with deference.

This naturally fosters an arrogant and disdainful personality.

But he was still afraid of his father.

After being reminded by Liu Bei, they quickly apologized to the two men.

Li Yi returned the greeting and said:
"Your Highness is too kind to this old minister."

"There is a distinction between ruler and subject; how dare this old minister accept such a grand ceremony?"

Zhao Yun also clasped his hands and said:

"Your Highness's concern for His Majesty and your filial piety are commendable. How could this humble general possibly mind?"

Liu Bei's expression softened slightly, but he still spoke sternly:
"Yong'er, the most important thing in governing a country is to employ the right people."

"Without the assistance of these founding fathers, how could we have the Han Dynasty we have today?"

"As a prince, you should understand the principle of treating the virtuous with respect."

"My son, please remember your father's teachings."

Liu Yong bowed his head and replied.

Liu Bei then nodded and said softly.
"Lead the way, I want to see how well your State of Lu is governed."

"Here."

The group officially entered the city.

On the way into the city, Liu Bei deliberately slowed down.

He walked alongside Li Yi and Zhao Yun, while Liu Yong led the way.

That evening, the Prince of Lu's mansion was brightly lit.

Liu Bei sat upright in the main hall, listening to Liu Yong and the officials of Lu report on political affairs.

Li Yi and Zhao Yun sat on either side, while the other officials were arranged according to their rank.

"Your Majesty."

Chancellor Zhuge Jin stepped forward, holding his official tablet.

"The five counties of Lu State collected a total of 300,000 shi of taxes last year, an increase of 20% compared to the previous year."

"Five thousand mu of wasteland were reclaimed, and eight hundred new households were added."

Liu Bei nodded slightly; this achievement was barely acceptable.

It's a passable answer sheet, I suppose.

"How is the recovery of people's livelihood? Cao Cao's traitors slaughtered many people here back then."

Liu Bei then asked another question.

"Reporting to Father."

Liu Yong quickly replied, "Your subject has reduced taxes and encouraged agriculture, and the people are now basically settled."

"only……"

He hesitated for a moment, then said, “Some villages are still almost empty, and I have already ordered people to recruit refugees to fill the gaps.”

Liu Bei remained noncommittal and turned to Li Yi:
"What does Ziyu think?"

Li Yi pondered for a moment and said:
“The State of Lu is located in the Central Plains and should be prosperous.”

"Although there is a recovery now, it is still far from the prosperity of the past."

"especially……"

He glanced at Liu Yong and said, "As the hometown of Confucius, it seems that there has been no particular achievement in education and culture."

The implication was simply that they were expressing dissatisfaction with Liu Yong's poor performance in the education sector.

After all, since Li Yi came to power, he has been advocating education and encouraging the establishment of schools.

The purpose is to lay a solid foundation among the people.

Once the order is given, which local official doesn't immediately respond to the imperial court's call?

They established a large number of private schools and regular schools.

The State of Lu has a rich cultural heritage.

With a prince in charge, the state subsidies they receive should theoretically be far greater than those of other counties.

However, education here is very backward.

Along the way, we saw very few private schools or schools.

A glint flashed in Liu Bei's eyes, and he said in a deep voice:
“Yong’er, what Prime Minister Li said is absolutely right.”

"Lu is the hometown of sages and should be a model for education and culture in the world."

"I observe that there is very little sound of reading in the city. Why is that?"

Sweat beaded on Liu Yong's forehead, and he stammered as he answered:
"Your subject... Your subject has focused on agriculture and sericulture, and has indeed neglected matters of culture and education."

"Confused!"

Liu Bei slammed his fist on the table and exclaimed, "Agriculture and sericulture are the foundation of civilization, while culture and education are the soul of the people!"

"When Li Xiang established schools in Luoyang, other prefectures and counties followed suit."

"Your hometown, the land of sages, has become backward? What kind of behavior is this?!"

The hall was completely silent.

When they were with Liu Yong, they were always very careful, afraid of saying the wrong thing.

But seeing the true emperor today, I finally understand what true majesty is.

Liu Yong was so frightened that he knelt down and kowtowed, saying:
"Your subject knows his mistake and will certainly correct it."

Liu Bei glanced around at the ministers in the hall, sighed deeply, and softened his tone:

"Get up."

Liu Yong was, after all, the ruler of a country, and Liu Bei did not want his son to lose face too much in front of others.

"You are still young, and it is inevitable that you will make mistakes."

"But remember, governing a country is like cooking a small fish; it requires both civil and military measures, and a balance of firmness and gentleness."

He turned to Zhuge Jin and said, "Ziyu, you are the Chancellor of Lu, so you should provide him with more assistance."

"Teaching with care is the key."

Zhuge Jin quickly agreed:
"Your subject will certainly do his utmost."

After the banquet ended, in the dead of night.

Liu Bei sat alone in the courtyard of his temporary palace.

The moonlight, like water, shone on his graying temples.

A light footstep approached, but he didn't turn his head.
"Yong'er, why aren't you resting so late?"

Liu Yong approached, holding a teacup:

"Your Majesty is busy with many affairs of state, so I have come to offer you tea."

Liu Bei took the teacup and gestured for him to sit down:

"If I spoke too harshly during the day, do you resent me?"

"I don't dare."

Liu Yong lowered his head, "My father's teachings are all invaluable."

"That's good."

Liu Bei took a sip of tea and said earnestly:

"Yong'er, do you know why I was able to revive the Han Dynasty three times?"

Liu Yong shook his head.

"It was not due to my efforts alone."

Liu Bei gazed into the distance, “Yun Chang, Yi De, Zi Yu, Zi Long… all are pillars of the state.”

"Without them, even with my lofty ambitions, I would find it difficult to achieve great things."

He suddenly coughed, causing ripples to spread across the surface of the teacup.

Liu Yong quickly patted his father's back, saying, "Father, please take care of your health."

Liu Bei waved his hand, indicating that it was alright.

"I am getting old; this is the natural order of things."

"That is precisely why it is all the more necessary for you to get along well with the old ministers."

He grasped Liu Yong's hand and said, "Remember, a ruler must know how to recognize and appoint capable people."

"Prime Minister Li is wise and shrewd in governing the country, and Zilong is unparalleled in loyalty and bravery. In the future... in the future, they will be your brothers' support."

"Only by making good use of them can you brothers safeguard the Han dynasty that Emperor Gaozu passed down."

"It is precisely because Father Emperor kept this principle in mind that he has the empire he enjoys today."

"Did you understand everything I said?"

Liu Bei was fifty-eight years old this year, his temples were white, and the wrinkles on his forehead were as deep as if carved by a knife.

But those eyes remained as sharp as ever.

"Your subject... understands."

Liu Yong bowed in reply.

Liu Bei turned to leave, but then stopped:

"By the way, how is your younger brother Liu Li doing in Liang?"

Liu Yong was taken aback, and replied:

“Well… Your son and I each guard our own fiefdoms and rarely have any contact with each other.”

Liu Bei gave him a meaningful look and said earnestly:
"When brothers are of one mind, their strength can break metal."

"I still maintain that although I do not have as many brothers from the imperial clan as Cao Cao and Sun Quan."

"But they have a brotherhood that transcends that of the royal family. Without them, it would have been difficult to achieve the great cause of the Three Reigns."

“You are already very lucky, and you have several older and younger brothers to rely on.”

"When I raised my army, these things didn't exist."

"I hope you...you...are all well."

After saying that, he slowly walked into the inner room, leaving Liu Yong alone in the moonlight, stunned.

A night breeze swept through the courtyard, ruffling Liu Yong's robes.

He heard light footsteps behind him, and he knew who it was without turning around.

"Mr. Tzuyu, it's so late, why aren't you asleep?"

Liu Yong's voice sounded somewhat tired.

Zhuge Jin slowly approached, stopping three steps behind Liu Yong, and cupped his hands in greeting:

"Your Highness is not asleep, so this old minister dares not fall asleep first."

Liu Yong gave a bitter smile and looked back at him:

"Did you hear the whole conversation between my father and me just now?"

Under the moonlight, Zhuge Jin's white beard trembled slightly as he lowered his eyes and replied:

"If Your Highness believes that this old minister heard it, then this old minister heard it."

"If Your Highness believes that this old minister did not hear, then this old minister did not hear."

"Ah……"

Liu Yong turned and looked directly at Zhuge Jin, his eyes flashing with a complex light.

"Ziyu, Ziyu, your mouth is even more eloquent than Confucius's Spring and Autumn Annals."

He paced back and forth a couple of steps. "Then tell me, what exactly did my father mean by those words tonight?"

Zhuge Jin remained silent as a stone, with only the night wind making a soft rustling sound as it blew his robes.

Seeing that he didn't answer, Liu Yong changed the subject and asked:

"I heard that your son, Zhuge Ke, has been recruited by my younger brother, the King, to serve as a cavalry commandant in the Liang Kingdom?"

Is this true or not?

A flicker of panic crossed Zhuge Jin's eyes, but he quickly regained his composure and answered, word by word:

"It's true."

"Is it because I've treated you badly?"

Liu Yong's voice suddenly turned cold, "Why does your son want to serve as an official in the Liang Kingdom?"

Zhuge Jin bowed deeply and explained:
"...Your Highness is wise."

"My son is naturally inclined to martial arts and enjoys riding horses and shooting arrows."

"The State of Lu is the home of sages. Your Highness governs the country with benevolence, and culture and education flourish."

"The Liang Kingdom is located on the frontier and has a strong martial spirit."

"My son's departure to Liang is like a fish in water or a bird in the forest; it has nothing to do with how Your Highness treats me."

These words were perfectly worded, explaining the son's whereabouts while also praising Liu Yong's governance with high emotional intelligence.

Don't be fooled by the fact that Liang and Lu were one civil and one military state.

However, governing a country has always emphasized civil administration, and Liu Bei also advocated benevolent governance.

This statement is merely to praise Liu Yong.

Sure enough, the little prince's expression softened slightly.

But then, as if remembering something, his face quickly darkened again.

"Today, Li Yi humiliated me in front of my father and all the civil and military officials, causing me to lose all face!"

Liu Yong gritted his teeth and slammed his fist on the stone table beside him, making the teacups clink.

Zhuge Jin kept his eyes down, his mind focused, and remained silent.

Liu Yong continued to vent his dissatisfaction:

“Li Yi always comes up with something unexpected.”

“A few years ago, they pushed for a new currency, which was going to replace the Wuzhu coin that our Han Dynasty had used for four hundred years, causing widespread resentment among the people.”

"Two years ago, it was said that schools should be built on a large scale, and all counties and kingdoms should set an example."

"Does he know how devastated Henan has become after the massacres perpetrated by Cao Cao?" "It is already difficult enough for me to stabilize the current situation, yet he still dares to publicly criticize my lack of education and culture!"

"If my father hadn't been there at the time, I would have loved to ask him a question—"

"Where will the money come from? Where will the people come from?!"

“He makes all the counties and kingdoms pay so much money and grain every year, has he ever thought about the difficulties of the people under my rule?”

"...Hehe, now I understand why those who stand at the top can never see the distance."

"He can just pat his head and make a decision without considering how many difficulties we face."

"And then they'll criticize you, pointing out where you didn't do well."

"But my father still favors him, so I dare not do anything about it."

Liu Yong clenched his fists in anger and gritted his teeth.

He was used to being respected in the State of Lu, and he had never been so humiliated.

Why did he subconsciously overlook Li Yi and Zhao Yun today?
In his view, he was the king and they were his subjects.

In the world, is there ever a king who greets his subjects with courtesy?

"Prime Minister Li is extremely busy with state affairs and works tirelessly for the country; he cannot attend to every single detail..."

Zhuge Jin tried to ease the tension.

"For the country?"

Liu Yong interrupted with a sneer, "I think it's for the Li family!"

"How kind and generous he was to his two nephews?"

"Simply because they are the legitimate children, while I...I..."

His voice suddenly choked up, and he didn't continue speaking.

Zhuge Jin looked up and saw tears glistening in the young Prince Lu's eyes.

But Liu Yong quickly regained his composure, though his voice became even sharper:

“Li Yi’s constant negativity towards me is simply an attempt to defend his position as a relative of the empress.”

"The harder I try, the more he tries to suppress me. Isn't that exactly what they want?"

"Your Highness, be careful what you say!"

Zhuge Jin quickly glanced around and lowered his voice, saying:

"Walls have ears."

Liu Yong took a deep breath and forced himself to calm down:
"Ziyu, tell me... how much time does my father have left?"

The question was asked so softly that it almost disappeared into the night wind.

Zhuge Jin's expression changed drastically, and he immediately knelt down:

"Your Highness! This is absolutely unacceptable..."

"Get up."

Liu Yong waved his hand wearily, "That's not what I meant."

"It's just the two of us here."

He looked up at the starry sky and sighed:
"I just... I'm just afraid it will be too late."

"No matter how hard I try, it seems that my father will always only have the Crown Prince and my younger brother in his eyes..."

"I have no desire to engage in fratricide or killing each other."

"I only want my father to be proud of me."

"But no matter how hard I try, I can't get rid of my status as an illegitimate son."

"I was born shorter than others."

Zhuge Jin stood up, cautiously took a step closer, and lowered his voice to a whisper:

"This old minister still has some old acquaintances in the court."

"I've heard... I've heard that the imperial court is preparing to launch a military campaign against Wu."

Liu Yong suddenly turned his head, his eyes flashing with a sharp light:
"really?"

Zhuge Jin nodded slightly and said in a deep voice:
"If Your Highness can strengthen your military and make significant contributions to the plan to destroy Wu, then..."

Before he could finish speaking, Liu Yong excitedly grabbed his arm:

"Ziyu is truly my Zhang Liang!"

He suddenly stepped back, solemnly straightened his clothes, and bowed deeply to Zhuge Jin.

"I am young and ignorant, and I hope that you will not hesitate to teach me in the future."

Zhuge Jin hurriedly returned the greeting:
"You flatter me!"

"Your Highness is exceptionally intelligent; given time, you will surely achieve great things!"

"Sir, there's no need for empty words."

Liu Yong straightened up, his eyes gleaming with determination.

“Starting tomorrow, the State of Lu shall secretly prepare its army for war.”

"Strive to achieve outstanding military exploits when the imperial court launches a military campaign against Wu in the future!"

Zhuge Jin understood, but then solemnly reminded him:

"Your Highness, this matter requires caution."

"The situation in the court was already chaotic, and it was only because of Prime Minister Li that things were kept at a safe distance."

"But there are still millions of eyes watching us, so we must be careful not to give others a handle to use against us."

"Otherwise, we will inevitably be hampered and controlled by others in the future."

"I know."

Liu Yong looked towards Liu Bei's palace, his voice low:

"My father taught me to know how to use people effectively."

“Mr. Tzuyu, you are the first person I need to use.”

As the night deepened, the shadows of the two people in the courtyard were stretched long by the moonlight and cast onto the bluestone slabs.

The sound of the night watchman's clapper could be heard in the distance; it was already past midnight.

"It's getting late, Your Highness should rest."

Zhuge Jin cupped his hands and said, "I will accompany His Majesty on his inspection tour of the counties tomorrow."

Liu Yong nodded, but then called out to Zhuge Jin, who was about to turn and leave:
"Sir, your son is in Liang... If you have the chance, could you please bring me some news?"

Zhuge Jin, with his back to Liu Yong, visibly stiffened for a moment before slowly saying:
"...This old minister will do his best."

Watching Zhuge Jin's departing figure, Liu Yong's eagerness gradually cooled, replaced by a deep composure beyond his years.

His gaze was deep, and he murmured to himself:

"Zhuge Jin, Zhuge Jin, your son is in Liang, how can you possibly stand completely on my side?"

……

Seven days later, Liu Bei's imperial carriage left the State of Lu and headed towards the State of Liang.

As soon as the carriage entered the territory of Liang, Liu Bei lifted the curtain, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes.

The fields on both sides of the road are neatly arranged, and the ditches are crisscrossed. The new green wheat seedlings undulate like waves in the spring breeze.

Smoke curled from the distant villages, and merchants and travelers came and went on the roads, a stark contrast to the barely reviving state of Lu.

"Ziyu, look at the Liang Kingdom..."

Liu Bei pointed to the view outside the window, his tone filled with surprise.

Li Yi rode closer to the imperial carriage, and following Liu Bei's gaze, a hint of satisfaction appeared on his face:
"Your Majesty, although the Liang Kingdom has suffered from war..."

"But the speed of recovery is truly astonishing."

Among the vassal states of Yuzhou, Chen was theoretically the richest.

Because it was not only the territory of Liu Chong, the King of Chen, but also became the capital of the Han Dynasty for a period of time.

Being served by the two great powers of Cao Cao and Liu Bei, they were naturally blessed.

The Liang Kingdom was originally the territory of Guo Gong, the governor of Yuzhou.

This place is one of the poorest in the state.

Guo Gong once boasted of having 20,000 soldiers here, but he simply couldn't afford to support them.

They even went so far as to seize Cao Cao's Yan Province.

Of course, he was driven away by Xun Yu's godlike performance and verbal attacks.

However, Liu Bei was still quite surprised that Liang Guo was able to recover from his battle wounds so quickly.

Even Zhao Yun couldn't help but exclaim in admiration:
"I observed that the people along the way had rosy complexions and were neatly dressed, unlike those who had suffered greatly from war."

Liu Bei seemed to be deep in thought, and pondered for a moment before saying:
"Li'er is only fourteen this year, right? Yet she has managed to govern her fiefdom so well..."

Li Yi interrupted:

"His Majesty has appointed many outstanding individuals to assist Prince Liang."

"Liang Kingdom will naturally be able to quickly restore people's livelihoods."

Liu Bei smiled and said:
"Have I mistreated Yong'er again?"

"I appointed Zhuge Ziyu as the Chancellor of Lu, and his younger brother Zhuge Jun as the Chancellor of Liang."

"The original intention was to hope that they could recognize talent and appoint people to good positions, so as to govern the country well."

"In the end, it all comes down to using people effectively. Making good use of talent is the key to governing a country."

Before the words were finished, dust suddenly billowed ahead, and a procession of honor slowly approached.

The young man at the head of the group wore a dark royal robe and a traveler's crown; his face was youthful, but his expression was calm.

It was none other than Liu Li, the King of Liang.

Behind him followed a group of Liang officials, including Chancellor Zhuge Jun and Cavalry Commandant Zhuge Ke.

When they were still a hundred paces from the imperial carriage, Liu Li got out of the car, straightened his clothes, and walked steadily forward.

When they reached fifty paces, he led the crowd in kneeling and bowing:
"Your subject Liu Li respectfully welcomes Your Majesty! All officials of Liang wish Your Majesty a long life!"

Liu Bei got out of the carriage and personally helped Liu Li up:
"Flat body."

After Liu Li got up, he did not rush to get close to his father, the emperor.

Instead, he first bowed deeply to Li Yi and Zhao Yun:
"Nephew greets Uncle Zhao, Uncle Zhao."

Li Yi quickly returned the greeting:

"Your Highness is too kind to this old minister. I am not worthy of such praise."

Liu Bei alighted from the carriage and personally helped Liu Li to his feet, saying, "Rise."

Zhao Yun also clasped his hands and said:

"Your Highness is too kind; this humble general is unworthy of such courtesy."

A look of satisfaction flashed in Liu Bei's eyes, and he patted Liu Li on the shoulder:

"Li'er has grown taller."

Liu Li replied respectfully:

"Your Majesty, I miss you every day and wish I could stay by your side forever."

"I am overjoyed to see that Your Majesty is in good health."

The welcoming ceremony was arranged in an orderly manner.

Liu Li personally guided the imperial carriage into the city, and the people along the way cheered, maintaining order.

Upon entering the city, the streets were clean and the markets were bustling.

The sound of students reciting their lessons filled the school, while the shouts and cries of soldiers drilling in the training ground were deafening.

Inside the palace, Liu Bei sat in the main seat, looking down at his young son, who was only fourteen years old but behaved very well.

Feeling increasingly gratified, I couldn't help but exclaim in praise:

"Li'er, I am very pleased that you have governed Liang so well."

Liu Li cupped his hands in greeting and replied:

"Your subject is young and ignorant, and relies entirely on the assistance of wise ministers such as Chancellor Zhuge Ziran."

"Your subject has only learned a little bit of the teachings from you great sages."

"Compared to Father Emperor's rule over the world, I am still far from being able to do so."

Liu Bei was overjoyed:

"Good! Not taking credit for others' work, not being arrogant, that's what makes a good son of mine!"

He turned to his attendant and said, "Bring me my set of white jade and bestow it upon the Prince of Liang."

Liu Li immediately knelt down and kowtowed, saying:

"Your subject would never dare to accept this jade."

"Governing the fiefdom is my duty as a subject. I am merely fulfilling my duties and deserve a reward."

"Father is a wise and benevolent ruler; we must never disrupt the principle of clear rewards and punishments."

"Your subject has rendered no service and dares not accept this reward."

Upon hearing this, Liu Bei laughed loudly:
"What the father gives, the son receives; it is only natural and rightful, so why refuse?"

Liu Li still insisted:

Confucius said, "To subdue oneself and return to propriety is benevolence."

“If I were to be rewarded for fulfilling my duty, I fear it would be contrary to the teachings of the sage.”

Liu Bei was overjoyed:

"Then add ten luminous pearls and five fine horses as tribute from the Western Regions."

Liu Li kowtowed for the third time:
"Your Majesty's kindness is deeply appreciated by your son."

"However, the people of Liang are still suffering from war. Your son wishes to redistribute these rewards to the poor and needy to demonstrate Your Majesty's benevolence."

Seeing this, Li Yi stepped forward and advised:
“Your Highness, the Book of Rites says, ‘When an elder bestows a gift, one should not refuse it.’”

"Your Majesty's favor is great, and Your Highness has declined three times, which is already the proper etiquette."

"Should we accept it?"

Liu Li then respectfully kowtowed:

"In that case, your son thanks Your Majesty for your kindness."

"Your subject will certainly make good use of these rewards and live up to your father's expectations."

Liu Bei nodded with satisfaction:

"It is truly rare for Li'er to have such a broad mind at such a young age."

He looked around at his ministers and said, “I have observed that the Liang Kingdom is well-governed and should serve as a model for other kingdoms.”

"Ziyu, upon returning to the capital, draft an imperial edict to commend the officials of Liang."

Li Yi bowed and agreed, "Your subject obeys."

After several rounds of drinks,
Liu Bei put down his wine cup and looked intently at his young son.

"Li'er, I just came from the State of Lu."

Liu Bei's voice was neither too loud nor too soft, yet it silenced the entire banquet hall.

"The two regions received roughly the same amount of aid from the imperial court, so why is Liang so well-governed, far surpassing Lu?"

"Please tell me in detail."

Liu Li put down his chopsticks and respectfully stood up:
"Your Majesty, I have simply kept in mind Your Majesty's teaching that 'governance depends on people,' and made good use of a few virtuous and capable individuals."

He turned to the ministers in the hall and made them appear one by one.

"Without these loyal ministers, even if I had three heads and six arms, I would not have achieved what I have today."

Liu Bei looked around the hall and then noticed many unfamiliar faces.

Most of the old ministers he had originally assigned to Liu Li were not present at the banquet.

His brow furrowed slightly, then relaxed.

After all, he is his own son, and he is indeed a capable ruler. Why bother with such matters?

"In that case, I, as your father, would like to get to know these talented individuals."

Liu Bei smiled slightly.

A hint of joy flashed in Liu Li's eyes, and he clapped his hands three times.

Three young officials, each with an extraordinary air about them, immediately stood up during the meal.

"This is Wang Chang, a member of the Wang family of Taiyuan, currently serving as the Agricultural Commandant."

Upon hearing the name of the Wang family of Taiyuan, many of the accompanying officials from the court began to whisper among themselves.

The Wang family of Taiyuan is a top-tier clan.

Wang Yun, the Minister of Works who participated in the assassination of Dong Zhuo, came from this family.

Liu Li pointed to the dark-skinned young man.

“Since he took office, he has cleared wasteland and encouraged agriculture and sericulture.”

"The trees in the country have grown into forests, and the cultivated land has increased many times over."

Wang Chang stepped forward, knelt, and solemnly said:

"Your Majesty, I am merely fulfilling my duty as a subject. I rely entirely on Your Highness's trust and dare not refrain from exerting my utmost efforts."

"The Wang family of Taiyuan?"

Liu Bei walked up to Wang Chang and carefully examined the young man.

His hands were rough, and there were traces of dirt under his fingernails, which showed that he often worked in the fields.

He nodded in approval and said:

"Agriculture is the foundation of the nation, and it is excellent that you are personally involved in its management."

After saying this, he gestured to his attendants to bestow ten bolts of brocade as a reward.

Liu Li then introduced the second person:
"This is Cavalry Commandant Zhuge Ke. Father, don't underestimate him because of his young age; he is well-versed in military strategy."

"Many of the soldiers in the country were trained by him."

When Zhuge Ke bowed, the clanging of his armor rang out, and his brows exuded a commanding presence.

Liu Bei's eyes lit up, and he asked:

"Is the young man Ziyu's son?"

"Your Majesty, it is indeed my father."

Zhuge Ke answered in a clear and melodious voice.

Liu Bei had also heard of him, and that this young man was a child prodigy who was famous far and wide.

So he decided to test him and asked:

"Who is smarter, your father or your uncle?"

Without hesitation, Zhuge Ke replied, "My father?"

"Why?"

“My father was able to serve the prince, while my uncle was far away in Jiaozhou, engaging in trade with the barbarians.”

Therefore, the father of this family became even more intelligent.

"But in my opinion, neither my father nor my uncle is as wise as Your Majesty."

"Otherwise, how could Prime Minister Li, with his flawless strategies, be willing to go through fire and water for His Majesty?"

These words were met with unanimous praise.

This Zhuge Ke was indeed as quick-witted and adept at handling all kinds of emergencies as rumored.

In just a few words, he not only preserved his father's dignity.

He also flattered Liu Bei and the country's second-in-command at the same time.

"Hahaha!"

Liu Bei was overjoyed, stroked his beard and laughed heartily, and immediately bestowed upon the emperor a precious sword.

Finally, Liu Li introduced a refined and cultured young man:

"This is Chen Tai of the Chen family of Yingchuan, currently serving as the chief clerk of my household."

"His father is the current Minister of Justice, Mr. Chen Changwen."

Chen Tai performed the proper rites:

“My father often said that His Majesty is kind and benevolent and loves scholars. Today, having the opportunity to see His Majesty’s face, I know that what he said was true.”

"I had a very close relationship with your father."

Liu Bei sighed:
"I am very pleased to see that you young people can work together with one heart and one mind."

After speaking, he bestowed upon her a jade belt.

After the introductions were completed, Liu Li respectfully said:

"Your subject is young and relies entirely on the assistance of these wise and capable men day and night."

“They each have their own strengths, just as Father often said, ‘to make people like tools.’”

Liu Bei stroked his beard and smiled, his eyes full of approval.

However, Li Yi's gaze swept back and forth between the three young officials—

The Wang family of Taiyuan, the Zhuge family of Langya, and the Chen family of Yingchuan were all prominent clans of their time.

This young prince had quietly woven a vast network of powerful families.

They also quietly replaced the officials appointed by Liu Bei.
This both diminished the influence of the imperial court and strengthened its own control over the Liang Kingdom.

This little kid is amazing!

As he was pondering this, Liu Li raised his glass and came to him:

"Uncle, let me offer you a toast."

Li Yi snapped out of his daze and quickly raised his glass in response.

After drinking, he noticed Liu Li staring at him.

"Uncle doesn't look well, but how could I have failed to entertain you properly?"

Liu Li's voice was gentle, carrying just the right amount of concern.

Li Yi put down his wine cup and said meaningfully:

"Your Highness has done everything very well... better than this old minister could have imagined."

A glint flashed in Liu Li's eyes, and he immediately smiled:

"Nephew, just take this as a compliment from your uncle."

He paused, then his tone softened.

"How are you doing, Aunt? I'm very worried about you."

"She's doing well, and she often talks about you."

Li Yi stared at his nephew, trying to discern something from his youthful face.

"I wish I could be with my aunt all the time to fulfill my filial duty."

Liu Li sighed, "How can I, as the ruler, dare not abandon my people?"

Li Yi nodded slightly:

"Your Highness prioritizes national affairs, which is the right path."

He lowered his voice, "Just... do your job well."

These words were spoken very lightly, yet each one carried immense weight.

Liu Li's expression remained unchanged, but the wine in his glass swayed slightly, reflecting his instantly cold and stern gaze.

"I will remember my uncle's teachings."

He raised his cup and drank it all in one gulp. As he turned around, his robes fluttered, revealing a regal air about him.

"Why are all my juniors so outstanding?"

Li Yi squinted, as if he had aged ten years in an instant.

"Is this what they mean by the younger generation surpassing the older, and the student surpassing the teacher?"

"Has my era passed?"

Li Yi sighed inwardly.

Then he stretched and loosened up his muscles.

Looking at Liu Bei, he was drinking and chatting with Zhao Yun, and the two got along very well.

"Your Majesty, I hope you understand."

"Not every father should expect his son to become a dragon."

"Especially in imperial families, one outstanding son is enough."

……

(End of this chapter)