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

Chapter 424 Liu Bei: Remember, there are some things that Kongming cannot do, and cannot do, only you, my Prime Minister, can do.

In Luoyang, a light snow was falling.

Before Weiyang Palace, all the officials stood solemnly.

The newly appointed Prime Minister Zhuge Liang is receiving the Prime Minister's seal and the jade token symbolizing his power from the eunuch.

The gilded bronze seal gleamed coldly in the snow, much like the many questioning gazes in the imperial court.

"Zhuge Liang's talent was inferior to that of Li Xiang, and his achievements were inferior to those of Chen Xiang."

"To actually hold the position of Grand Secretary, isn't that a joke?"

"Indeed, when he first entered Xuzhou, he was deeply loved by His Majesty."

"Unexpectedly, he has now risen to the position of prime minister."

The hushed whispers reached Zhuge Liang's ears like a cold wind.

His expression remained unchanged; he simply held the seal of office even more firmly.

After the ceremony was completed, the old prime minister Li Yi called him from under the eaves.

Li Xiang, who was fifty-six years old at the time, was wearing a black cloak.

His hair and beard were all white, but his eyes remained sharp.

"Kongming,"

Li Yi's voice was low and deep, "Do you know why it's so cold today?"

Zhuge Liang bowed and answered without hesitation:
"The spring snow has not yet melted, therefore..."

"No."

Li Yi interrupted, "It's because people's hearts are colder than snow."

"Of the officials in the court, eight or nine out of ten are not convinced by you as the new prime minister."

Zhuge Liang remained silent.

Li Yi suddenly chuckled:
"I remember when you first entered my Prime Minister's residence as a court official, you were besieged by the officials for revising the tax system, and you had the same expression on your face."

"I am a foolish student, and I hope you will forgive me, teacher."

"Stupid?"

Li Yi shook his head. "If you were dull-witted, why would His Majesty have made an exception and promoted you? And why would Chancellor Chen have recommended you on his deathbed?"

He reached out and brushed the snow off Zhuge Liang's shoulder.

"Having accepted this seal, one should have the courage to shoulder this heavy responsibility."

If you don't want to be looked down upon, prove yourself with your abilities.

Zhuge Liang bowed deeply:
"The student will follow the teacher's teachings."

Just then, a fast horse galloped into the palace gate through the snow.

A secret envoy from the Kingdom of Wu presented an urgent report, which was hurriedly delivered to the emperor by a palace attendant.

Inside the warm pavilion,
After reading the memorial, Liu Bei suddenly coughed.

Zhuge Liang and Li Yi rushed to the scene upon hearing the news, only to find the old emperor with a livid face, throwing the bamboo slips heavily to the ground.

"The traitor! This traitor!"

Liu Bei angrily said, "I had to carefully consider the cost of building a side hall, which was worth two million coins."

"He actually built the Wangxiantai and Jinfan Palace in the Wu Kingdom, spending over ten million!"

"Furthermore, a thousand singing girls will be recruited to make merry day and night!"

Zhuge Liang picked up the memorial and examined it closely, his brows furrowing slightly.

"The King of Wu's actions were indeed excessive."

"It's more than just passing!"

Liu Bei pointed south with trembling fingers, saying, "I often teach my sons, saying, 'Do not do evil even if it is small.'"

"His extravagance is no different from that of Jie and Zhou."

Zhuge Liang listened intently, secretly alarmed.

He had long known that his elder brother was in a difficult situation in the State of Wu, but he never expected the King of Wu to be so absurd.

Liu Bei issued an edict in court:

"King Liu Yong of Wu did not care about the people's well-being and indulged in extravagance."

"His fiefdom of three counties shall be reduced, and his annual salary shall be halved."

"The Chancellor Zhuge Jin failed to advise the emperor and instead aided and abetted the tyrant."

"He is hereby dismissed from his post as prime minister and shall remain in the State of Wu pending further investigation!"

The entire court was in uproar.

Zhuge Liang stepped forward to speak, but Li Yi stopped him with a look.

After the court session, Zhuge Liang rushed to the Prime Minister's residence to see Li Yi.

"Sir, you know perfectly well that my elder brother..."

"Ziyu did make a mistake,"

Li Yi poured tea and pushed it in front of Zhuge Liang, saying, "But the mistake was not in aiding and abetting evil, but in being overly cautious."

Seeing that Zhuge Liang was puzzled, Li Yi continued:
"As far as I know, Ziyu has repeatedly advised the King of Wu, but the King has not listened."

"He then advised the King of Wu to use his wealth for palaces rather than for soldiers, which would actually weaken his country."

"This plan is ingenious, but it gives people something to criticize."

Zhuge Liang suddenly realized:
"So my elder brother is..."

He had been in Guanzhong for a long time and was not very clear about the specifics of things in Jiangnan.

After hearing Li Yi's explanation, he suddenly understood.

But then I thought about it again, how could Li Yi, who had already semi-retired from court, be so knowledgeable about the affairs of Jiangnan?

It seems they have quite a few informants in Jiangnan.

The former prime minister still had too much control.

“…Exactly.”

"But this matter can only be understood intuitively, not explained in words."

Li Yi sighed, "Now that he has been dismissed from office and recalled, it has actually saved him from danger."

Zhuge Liang immediately went to the palace to meet the emperor.

The warm pavilion was filled with the fragrance of medicine. Liu Bei leaned against the couch, his face pale.

"Did Kongming come for Ziyu?"

Before he could speak, Liu Bei asked.

"...Your Majesty is wise."

“My elder brother has indeed failed in his duties, but he has served in Wu for six years. Even if he has not made any great contributions, he has certainly worked hard.”

"I humbly request Your Majesty to allow him to return to the capital to take up his post and atone for his crimes through meritorious service."

Liu Bei gazed at Zhuge Liang for a long time, then suddenly said:
“I remember that Ziyu originally did not want to be sent to a post outside the capital.”

“It was you who said, ‘The sons of the Zhuge family should share the burdens of the court,’ that made him go to the Kingdom of Wu.”

Zhuge Liang knelt on the ground:
"It was due to my youthful arrogance."

"Get up."

Liu Bei coughed for a while, "Actually, I know that Ziyu has been maneuvering in Wu."

"That's what prevented Liu Yong from doing anything even more outrageous, but..."

His vision was far-reaching:
"My days are numbered, and I must clear the obstacles for the Crown Prince."

"If Liu Yong's actions are not punished, they will surely cause trouble in the future."

As for Ziyu—

Liu Bei paused for a moment:
"Then he shall be transferred back to the capital to serve as Grand Master of the Palace."

“You brothers have been separated for many years, it’s time for you to reunite.”

Zhuge Liang's eyes were slightly red, and he bowed again:

"Thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty."

Three days later, the imperial edict was issued.

Zhuge Liang stood on the city tower, gazing southwards.

Fine snowflakes drifted down again, landing on his newly changed purple court robes.

Li Yi appeared behind him without him noticing:

"Are you worried about Tzuyu?"

"The King of Wu is eccentric and I'm afraid he won't release them easily."

Li Yi chuckled:

"Liu Yong may be absurd, but he is not stupid."

"He also relies on the imperial court's monopoly on salt and iron."

As Li Yi had predicted,
When the imperial edict was sent back to the Wu Kingdom, Liu Yong, though eccentric in nature, was extremely unwilling to release the person.

However, Wu Kingdom certainly couldn't withstand the series of sanctions imposed by the imperial court.

Moreover, as Li Yi said, Liu Yong and the Wu Kingdom were highly dependent on the salt and iron monopoly rights delegated by the imperial court.

And opening up trade with the outside world.

If the imperial court tightens its policies, the economy of Wu will collapse.

After all, the states granted to the feudal lords were different from the independent states where Sun Quan had previously resided.

Sun Quan's Wu Kingdom possessed complete national sovereignty.

However, the sovereignty and governing power of the fiefdoms of the vassal kings were strictly limited by the imperial court.

Therefore, no matter how arrogant Liu Yong was in Jiangnan, he dared not openly oppose the imperial court.

As for the imperial edict summoning Zhuge Jin back to the capital, Liu Yong had no choice but to obediently release him.

One month later, Zhuge Jin arrived in the capital.

When the brothers met, they held hands and looked at each other with tears in their eyes, speechless for a moment.

That night, a family banquet was held at Zhuge's residence.

After several rounds of drinks, Zhuge Jin sighed:

"These past six years in Wu have truly been like walking on thin ice for me, brother."

"If it weren't for your intervention, my brother, I'm afraid I wouldn't have been able to escape unscathed."

Zhuge Liang raised his cup and sighed:
"...Brother, you have suffered."

"But there's one thing I don't understand—"

"The King of Wu is extravagant, so why did your elder brother advise him to build palaces instead?"

Zhuge Jin exchanged a glance with Yan Jun beside him and said with a wry smile:
“Liu Yong has long harbored ulterior motives. If I advise him to be frugal, he will surely replace him with someone else as prime minister.”

"It would be better to entice them into extravagance, thereby weakening the nation's power, and await the imperial decree."

Yan Zhen then said:

"Ziyu's plan, though it tarnishes his own reputation, is in fact for the benefit of the nation."

Zhuge Liang was filled with awe:
"My brother has put a lot of thought into this."

"...Now you are the prime minister in the court,"

Zhuge Jin said solemnly, "We should be even more cautious."

"I observe that the power dynamics in the court are complex and intertwined, especially those powerful clans, which seem to have many reservations about our Zhuge family."

"...Yes, many ministers in the court are quite arrogant because they have served the emperor for a long time."

"His Majesty has always been kind and benevolent, treating his old brothers well, so he is mostly tolerant of them."

Just then, the gatekeeper came to report: Prime Minister Li has arrived.

Li Yi arrived shrouded in night, and said with a smile:
"Having heard that Ziyu has returned to the capital, I have come to invite you for a drink."

The three of them hurriedly welcomed them in.

In the midst of their drinking and conviviality, Li Yi suddenly said:
"Does Ziyu know that this transfer back is actually a two-birds-with-one-stone plan by Kongming?"

Zhuge Jin was taken aback.

Li Yinai explained methodically:

"This will not only save you from danger, but also provide an opportunity to place an ally in the court."

"Although the position of Grand Master of the Palace is not an important one, he can participate in the deliberation of state affairs."

Zhuge Liang smiled but remained silent.

The snow outside the window stopped, the moon rose and the clouds parted, filling the courtyard with its clear light.

Zhuge Jin gazed at his younger brother and suddenly felt a pang of nostalgia for the boy who had studied diligently in their hometown of Langya.

Now he has truly grown into a pillar of the family, capable of supporting the entire family.

at the same time,

The Chang Le Palace was brightly lit, and Liu Bei lay on his dragon bed.

The silence of the night was broken from time to time by violent coughing.

"Cough cough... Unfilial son... This unfilial son..."

Liu Bei's face was flushed, and he gripped the report from Wu tightly in his hand, his knuckles turning white from the force.

He was still angry about Liu Yong's matter.

He hopes that all his sons will be outstanding.

Upon hearing that Liu Yong was indulging in debauchery in the Kingdom of Wu, Liu Bei was extremely disappointed and dissatisfied.

King Liu Li of Yue and Crown Prince Liu Shan stood on either side of the couch, both with worried expressions.

Liu Li carefully served warm water:
"Father, please calm down. It is important to take care of your health."

Liu Bei pushed the water away, and then another bout of heart-wrenching coughing erupted:

"Even when I build a side hall, I still consider it carefully..."

"He actually dared... he actually dared to spend tens of millions to build this Wangxiantai..."

"Does he really want to become an immortal?"

At this moment, Hua Tuo hurriedly entered carrying his medicine chest.

This renowned doctor, well past sixty, had white hair and beard, and a solemn expression on his face.

"His Majesty,"

After bowing, Hua Tuo stepped forward to take Liu Bei's pulse, placing his fingers on Liu Bei's wrist for a long time, his brows furrowing more and more tightly.

"When liver fire is stagnant and pathogenic factors invade the lungs, this is an acute condition."

Liu Shan hurriedly asked:

"Mr. Hua, the Emperor's illness..."

Hua Tuo shook his head:

"Your Majesty's old illness has not yet healed, and now new worries have arisen."

"If treatment is not sought promptly, complications may arise."

He took out a packet of herbs from his medicine box, saying, "This is my newly prepared 'Lung-Clearing Decoction,' which may be able to cure the condition."

"only……"

"Just what?"

The two princes asked in unison,

Hua Tuo hesitated for a moment, then said:

"This medicine contains one ingredient, Tripterygium wilfordii, which has extremely potent medicinal properties."

"To be absolutely sure, we need to have someone test the drug first and observe the reaction."

The hall fell silent.

Several eunuchs instinctively took a half step back, bowing their heads and daring not to utter a sound.

In that moment of silence, Liu Li suddenly stepped forward:
"Your subject is willing to test the medicine for Your Majesty."

Before anyone could react, he had already taken the medicine bowl and taken a small sip.

The bitter taste of the medicine made him frown slightly, but he still drank the rest of the medicine in one gulp.

"Li'er!"

Liu Bei struggled to get up.

"You...you didn't hear Doctor Hua say that this medicine is extremely potent?"

"The eunuchs can test the medicine; why do you need to try it yourself?"

Liu Li knelt before the bed, tears glistening in his eyes:
“Your subject has studied the classics since childhood and is well-versed in propriety and righteousness.”

The Book of Rites states: "If the ruler is ill and takes medicine, the minister should taste it first; if the father is ill and takes medicine, the son should taste it first."

"Father is both my sovereign and my father."

"Since he is your sovereign and father, your son should taste the medicine for you."

These heartfelt words moved everyone present.

Liu Bei gazed at his usually taciturn son, his eyes slightly moist:

"Li'er is so thoughtful..."

He reached out and gently stroked Liu Li's head, but his gaze inadvertently swept over Liu Chan beside him.

In that fleeting glance, a barely perceptible hint of disappointment flashed in Liu Bei's eyes.

Although it was fleeting, Hua Tuo keenly observed it.

Half an hour later,
Liu Li felt no discomfort, so Hua Tuo prepared the medicine again and served it to him.

After taking the medicine, Liu Bei's cough gradually stopped, and his complexion improved considerably.

"Dr. Hua has miraculous healing skills."

Liu Bei leaned against the couch, his voice still sounding weak.

Hua Tuo bowed and said:
"This is due to the King of Yue's filial piety, which moved heaven and earth; it is not due to my own merit."

At this moment, a palace attendant came to report that Prime Minister Zhuge Liang requested an audience.

Liu Bei signaled for the messenger to enter.

Zhuge Liang entered and, seeing that Liu Bei's condition had improved, breathed a sigh of relief.
"I heard that Your Majesty is unwell, so I came to inquire after your well-being."

Liu Bei sighed:

"I am fine, but... I remember when I was in Xuzhou, I also had a similar cough."

"However, at that time, it was Yun Chang who personally tasted the medicine for me."

His gaze was distant, as if he were recalling the past:
"Now that Yun Chang is getting old, all that's left by my side... are you old ministers and these few children."

Upon hearing this, Liu Li knelt down again:
"Your subject is willing to follow the example of your second uncle and serve your father with all your heart."

Zhuge Liang keenly sensed the subtle atmosphere in the hall, and seeing Liu Shan's embarrassed expression, he spoke gently:
"Your Highness must have been overwhelmed with worry and lost your composure for a moment."

"I remember last year when Your Majesty was slightly unwell, the Crown Prince stayed up for three days and personally served you medicine."

Liu Bei's expression softened slightly, and he said to Liu Shan:
"I know you are filial."

Liu Shan then came to his senses and quickly said:

"Your subject is dull and not as quick-witted as your third brother."

As night deepened, Liu Bei fell into a deep sleep after taking his second dose of medicine.

Hua Tuo and Zhuge Liang left the sleeping quarters together.

The moonlight shone like water under the eaves, and Hua Tuo suddenly whispered:

"Has the Prime Minister noticed that His Majesty seems to have... doubts about the Crown Prince?"

Zhuge Liang gazed at the crescent moon on the palace wall for a long time before saying:

"The Crown Prince's benevolence is a blessing to all people."

Hua Tuo shook his head:

"However, governing a country cannot rely solely on benevolence and kindness..."

Zhuge Liang, however, said:
"Sir, don't you understand what Prime Minister Li means?"

"He wants an obedient second generation, not one with too many ideas and who is out of control."

Although these words were spoken in a very subtle way, they still made Hua Tuo, who had experienced many storms, gasp in surprise.

He instinctively held his breath, realizing what Zhuge Liang meant.

Everyone knows that Prime Minister Li is a person with an extremely strong desire for control.

The obedient and docile Liu Shan was clearly the most ideal second-generation ruler in Li Yi's mind.

Although Liu Li is extremely capable, he has many ideas and is difficult to restrain.

This is clearly contrary to Li Yi's governing philosophy.

In particular, Li Yi advocated that after unifying the country, the country should emulate the rule of Emperors Wen and Jing.

We must fully support the people's livelihood and resume production.

The reigns of Emperors Wen and Jing are also known as the reigns of Huang-Lao (the ancient Chinese philosophers).

So, among the second-generation rulers who conformed to the Taoist idea of ​​"non-action," it seems that only Liu Shan was one.

Other monarchs who gave up were either too young or had mothers with too little power.

None of them were as upright and virtuous as Liu Shan.

Before he could finish speaking, Liu Li tiptoed out of the hall and bowed to the two of them.
"Father is asleep. Thank you both for your concern."

Watching Liu Li's departing figure, Hua Tuo sighed softly:

“Your Highness the King of Yue… does resemble His Majesty quite a bit back then.” Zhuge Liang remained silent, but a hint of worry flashed in his eyes.

He intended to return to his residence to rest, but ultimately felt uneasy.

Ultimately, the coachman was ordered to drive the carriage in another direction.

It was a spring night, and Luoyang was already asleep.

A commotion suddenly broke out in front of the Prime Minister's residence.

Zhuge Liang, without changing out of his court robes, hurriedly knocked on the door in his plain everyday clothes.

The old steward opened the door carrying a lantern, and upon seeing it was the Prime Minister, he quickly bowed and said:
"Prime Minister Zhuge, Prime Minister Li has already retired for the night."

"Please inform him that Liang has important business to discuss with me."

Zhuge Liang's brows were furrowed with deep worry.

Inside the room, Li Yi was awakened by a knock on the door.

His wife, Yuan Ying, sat up unhappily beside him:
"This Zhuge Kongming is so rude! Disturbing people's sleep in the middle of the night, doesn't he have any manners?"

Li Yi lifted the brocade quilt and calmly got up:
"Kongming is not a man ignorant of etiquette; his request for an audience at this time must be for something important."

He put on his outer robe and said to the door:

"Please meet me in Zhuge Kongming's study."

Inside the study, Li Yi ordered someone to present him with melons and grapes, tributes from the Western Regions.

He then personally poured Zhuge Liang a cup of tea:
"Try it, the melons and fruits newly sent by Kucha are very sweet."

Zhuge Liang had no time to savor it and said eagerly:
"Prime Minister, regarding today's medicine testing..."

"I already know."

Li Yi slowly peeled the grapes, saying, "The King of Yue's filial piety is commendable, and it is only natural that Your Majesty is moved."

"But His Majesty has recently become increasingly close to the King of Yue."

Zhuge Liang lowered his voice, "Yesterday, the King of Yue actually discussed the reform of the canal system before the emperor. This... this should have been the Crown Prince's responsibility."

Li Yi remained noncommittal, then handed over another slice of melon:
"This melon is rare; Kongming, you might as well try it."

Zhuge Liang pushed aside the melons and fruits, and leaned forward:

"One more thing—"

"Madam Chen has recently been frequently associating with noble ladies in the capital. She has become sworn sisters with the wife of General Wei, and has been strolling in the garden with the wife of the Minister of Ceremonies. Even the daughter of Minister Wang often visits the Prince of Yue's residence."

"Prime Minister, Chen Yao is, after all, the daughter of the former Prime Minister. It's strange that she's associating with such noble ladies in the capital..."

"Chen Deng's daughter comes from a prominent family, so it's not surprising that noble ladies are willing to befriend her."

Li Yi sipped his tea leisurely, his face expressionless.

Zhuge Liang stood up in a hurry:
"That's not what I meant! Can't Your Excellency see that?"

"The King of Yue and his queen are weaving a web in the capital! If this continues, the Crown Prince's position will be in jeopardy!"

Li Yi put down his teacup, his gaze suddenly becoming sharp.

He asked Zhuge Liang meaningfully:
"...Kongming, if we set aside the order of legitimate and illegitimate children..."

"Who do you think is more suitable to be the heir apparent, the Crown Prince or the King of Yue?"

With this remark,
Zhuge Liang suddenly felt a chill run down his spine, and cold sweat instantly soaked through his inner garment.

He said in a trembling voice:

"Your Excellency... I dare not answer this question."

"Is it that you dare not answer, or that you are unwilling to answer?"

Li Yi pressed closer and closer.

Zhuge Liang took a deep breath and bowed solemnly:
"Whoever the Prime Minister supports, I will support."

"Ugh……"

Upon hearing this, Li Yi sighed deeply and got up to walk to the window.

"Kongming, Kongming, where is the magnanimity you displayed when you were in Xuzhou, discussing the state of the world with His Majesty?"

"Having spent so many years navigating the ups and downs of officialdom, has even the courage to speak frankly been worn away?"

He turned and stared at Zhuge Liang:

"Is it because of me? Because I am still alive, you dare not fully realize your ambitions?"

"I wouldn't dare!"

Zhuge Liang quickly denied it, saying, "I will never forget the Prime Minister's kindness in recognizing my talent."

It is undeniable that for a long time, Zhuge Liang did live in Li Yi's shadow.

This, to some extent, limited Zhuge Liang's boldness and unrestrained spirit.

And most importantly, his self-confidence.

Often, he would subconsciously trust Li Yi's opinions and lose his own judgment.

He would often secretly rejoice when his own opinions aligned with Li Yi's.

In his view, Prime Minister Li was a genius of unparalleled talent.

If one's own opinions conflict with those of Prime Minister Li, it must be because one has not thought things through properly.

Therefore, regarding the princeling faction, Zhuge Liang didn't even have time to consider who the best candidate was.

They immediately and prejudicially supported Liu Shan.

Because Li Yi supported Liu Shan, he subconsciously followed suit.

Not only Zhuge Liang,
Many princelings in the court were like this.

They were less a princeling faction and more a member of the Li family faction.

Only by following Prime Minister Li could they have soup to drink and meat to eat.

Li Yi waved his hand to interrupt:
"...Don't worry."

"Today's situation was exactly what I had planned."

"But the King of Yue was gradually gaining favor."

"That's good too."

Li Yi chuckled, "That boy A Dou will never learn to improve if no one is there to urge him on."

"It's impossible for an old man like me, who's nearing the end of his life, to have to bail him out in everything."

Zhuge Liang suddenly realized:
"Is the Prime Minister trying to use the Prince of Yue to motivate the Crown Prince?"

"Jade that is not carved cannot become a useful object."

Li Yi's gaze was far-reaching: "The Crown Prince is kind and benevolent, but what he lacks is precisely this sense of crisis."

"Now that the King of Yue is by his side, if he wants to retain his position as crown prince, he should learn how to be a ruler."

Zhuge Liang pondered for a moment, then finally smiled:

“…Liang understands.”

"I just don't know... what Ryo should do next?"

"As the current prime minister, you should naturally do what a prime minister should do."

Li Yi sat down again and handed over the slice of melon that had been refused.

"Governing the country and ensuring its stability, selecting virtuous and capable officials—aren't these all your duties?"

Zhuge Liang accepted it with both hands and finally took a bite:
"It is indeed sweet and refreshing."

"Melons should be eaten fresh, and national affairs should be handled in accordance with the trend."

Li Yi said meaningfully:

"Remember, no matter who succeeds to the throne in the future, you, Zhuge Kongming, will always be the pillar of our Han Dynasty."

At this moment, the old steward reported from outside the door:
"Prime Minister, a report has come from the palace that His Majesty has summoned the Prince of Yue to the palace to attend to his ailing father."

Zhuge Liang looked worried again, but Li Yi said calmly:

"understood."

After the steward left, Li Yi said to Zhuge Liang:
"It seems His Majesty will not sleep well again tonight."

"Kongming, it's time for you to go back."

Upon reaching the gate of the mansion, Li Yi suddenly called out to Zhuge Liang:

"Remember, a prime minister should be like the North Star."

"Stay where you are and all the stars will surround you; there is no need to chase after the light of a shooting star."

Zhuge Liang bowed deeply:
"I will gladly accept your teachings, Your Excellency."

On the way back home.

Zhuge Liang lifted the carriage curtain and saw that the east was already showing signs of dawn.

He suddenly remembered what Li Yi had said to him twenty years ago when he first entered the Prime Minister's residence as a court attendant:
"The way to be an official is not to curry favor with the powerful, but to uphold integrity and uprightness."

In retrospect, this mentor has never changed his original intention.

Meanwhile, Li Yi returned to the inner room, where Yuan Ying was still awake. She said with dissatisfaction:

"What's so urgent?"

Li Yi undressed and lay down, whispering:

"Kongming is now capable of shouldering the responsibility alone, so I have nothing to worry about."

"Just because you woke us up in the middle of the night?"

Li Yi gazed at the top of the tent and said slowly:

"Madam doesn't understand, this is precisely a blessing for our great Han Dynasty."

The next day's meeting,

Liu Bei was unable to arrive due to illness, so Crown Prince Liu Shan took over the reins of the state.

To the surprise of his ministers, Zhuge Liang changed his usual mild demeanor.

He impeached three officials for dereliction of duty in court and strongly advocated for the implementation of a new performance evaluation system.

His swift and decisive actions commanded respect from the entire court.

Holding his jade tablet, Zhuge Liang then proceeded to explain the important military and political affairs of Guanzhong.

"I recommend Lu Xun as General Who Conquers the West and appoint Jiang Wei as Protector of the Army."

Zhuge Liang's clear voice echoed throughout the hall.

"Jiang Wei was a loyal and diligent official, and his thoughts were meticulous."

"After examining his talents and strategies, I found that even young talents like Dong Yun and Zhou Tai were no match for him."

"This man is truly a worthy scholar from Liangzhou, loyal to the Han dynasty, and exceptionally talented."

Liu Shan leaned slightly forward:

"The Prime Minister has a very high opinion of this person."

"Exactly."

Zhuge Liang continued, "Jiang Boyue is knowledgeable in military affairs, possesses both courage and a deep understanding of military strategy."

"Your Majesty, I request that you train 5,600 Tiger Infantrymen. Once they are trained, you may bring them to meet Your Majesty."

Liu Shan pondered for a moment:

"...Granted."

"Lu Xun was appointed General Who Conquers the West, and Jiang Wei was appointed Protector of the Army to train the new army."

"Thank you, Your Highness."

Zhuge Liang bowed deeply, then changed the subject.

"I have one more matter to report today—the grand plan to attack Wei."

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

The Grand Master of the Palace stepped forward and said:
"...Prime Minister, the country has just been stabilized and we have just finished fighting the Wu Kingdom."

"We should be recuperating and rebuilding; how can we lightly start a war?"

Zhuge Liang remained calm and composed:
"Precisely because the country is undergoing restoration, I and the cabinet ministers have been making plans overnight."

"A plan to conquer Shu was devised that would minimize the cost of war."

Liu Shan appeared slightly uneasy:

"Please explain this to me in detail, Prime Minister."

Zhuge Liang ordered his attendant to unfurl a huge map, and then, holding a bamboo staff, pointed out the locations:
"I discussed and deliberated with the Cabinet and the Ministry of War, and finally reached a conclusion."

"To conquer Shu, at least 180,000 troops would be needed, advancing in three routes."

He first touched the western front with his bamboo cane:

"The first route is to attack the main force of the Wei army stationed in the western front."

"Although the Wei army here is numerous, they are scattered and farming, so they can be defeated one by one."

The bamboo cane then moved backward:

"The second route is to flank and cut off the main force of the Wei army's supply lines and retreat."

"This route requires 5,000 elite cavalry, who can move swiftly."

Finally, the bamboo cane fell heavily on Hanzhong:

"The third route is our main force for attacking Wei, and it will directly take the stronghold in Hanzhong."

"Then……"

The bamboo cane traced an arc to the south, signaling, "Straight to Chengdu!"

The imperial court was completely silent.

After a long while, Yang Yi stepped forward and asked:
"The Prime Minister's plan is ingenious, but where will the provisions come from for an army of 180,000?"

"This matter has been discussed with the Ministry of Revenue."

Zhuge Liang looked at Xu Shu.

"Minister Xu, please."

Xu Shu stepped forward and reported:

"I have calculated that if we deploy troops in three batches and use the war to sustain the war effort, we can save 30% of our food supplies."

"Furthermore, the land reclamation in Guanzhong has yielded results and can support some of the military's food supplies."

Dong Yun interjected:
"However, mobilizing 180,000 troops will inevitably cause hardship to the people and waste resources."

"What if the war goes badly..."

"Therefore, this battle must be won quickly."

Zhuge Liang said decisively, "Our army will launch a surprise attack and advance from three directions simultaneously."

"We will surely be able to take Hanzhong before the Wei army can react."

The ministers debated the matter, with some in favor and others against.

As Liu Shan listened to the debate in the court, his expression grew increasingly solemn.

After the discussion subsided, Liu Shan slowly spoke:
"The Prime Minister's plan is meticulously crafted."

"Of course..."

He paused, "After all, I am only the regent. Such a matter of national importance, should it be carried out...?"

"Let's discuss this again after Father Emperor recovers from his illness."

Zhuge Liang wanted to offer further advice, but seeing Liu Shan's weary expression, he could only bow.
"My minister obeys."

After the court session, Zhuge Liang and Li Yi walked side by side.

"Is Kongming's action today too hasty?"

Li Yi asked slowly and deliberately.

Zhuge Liang sighed:
"...Opportunity knocks but once."

"Now that the internal strife in Wei has just been quelled, it is the perfect time to launch a military campaign."

"However, we both know the Crown Prince's personality."

Li Yi's gaze was distant. "He needs time."

As the two walked to the palace gate, they suddenly saw King Liu Li of Yue coming towards them.

"Greetings to the Prime Minister and Uncle."

Liu Li bowed.

"Just now in the court, I heard the Prime Minister's strategy for attacking Wei, which is truly a brilliant plan."

Zhuge Liang's expression shifted slightly:
"Your Highness is also knowledgeable in military affairs?"

"Know a thing or two."

Liu Li said modestly.

"I just think that if the second flanking force were to take the Yinping Trail instead, it might be more discreet."

A look of surprise flashed in Zhuge Liang's eyes:
"How does Your Highness know about the Yinping Trail?"

"I recently came across this while studying a map drawn by my uncle."

Liu Li smiled and said, "If the Prime Minister is interested, we can discuss this matter in detail another day."

Many years ago, when Zhang Song visited Xuzhou, he presented a map of western Sichuan.

Later, based on his geographical investigation, Li Yi created a detailed map.

Liu Li seems to have a high degree of admiration for Li Yi, having studied many of his works and sayings.

Even for the maps needed to conquer Shu, Liu Li only looked at those drawn by Li Yi.

After Liu Li left, Li Yi whispered:
"Do you see? The King of Yue also has considerable insight into military affairs."

Zhuge Liang remained silent.

at the same time,

Inside Chang Le Palace, the candlelight flickered red.

Liu Bei leaned back on the dragon bed, listening to Liu Shan report in detail on the events of today's court assembly.

When Liu Bei heard Zhuge Liang's strategy of attacking Wei, a glint of light flashed in his cloudy eyes.

"Cough cough..."

Liu Bei coughed lightly a few times and accepted the medicinal soup offered by the eunuch.

"A Dou, what are your thoughts on the conquest of Shu?"

Liu Shan carefully organized his thoughts:

"Your subject believes that it would be a good thing if the country could be unified as soon as possible."

"However... years of war inevitably lead to the exhaustion of the people and the waste of resources."

"Although the national treasury is now full, if the war is not going well, the 180,000 troops will be deployed and the campaign will drag on for a long time."

"I am afraid……"

"So what do you think? Should we have fought or not?"

Liu Bei's eyes were sharp as he stared directly at his son.

The hall was silent, with only the sound of the water clock breaking.

Liu Shan pondered for a long time before finally raising his head:

"It's time to hit."

"Oh?"

Liu Bei leaned forward slightly. "Why?"

"My father founded the Han Dynasty with the ambition of restoring the Han Dynasty and unifying the world."

Liu Shan's tone grew firmer, "If I wish to be on par with Emperor Gaozu and Emperor Guangwu, and become a sage ruler for all time."

"Then we must annihilate the Wei rebels and complete the great cause of unification."

"This battle... is unavoidable."

Upon hearing this, Liu Bei's pale face flushed red, and tears seemed to glisten in his eyes.
"It's rare...it's rare that my son has such thoughts..."

He tremblingly grasped Liu Shan's hand:
"In that case, I agree to the plan to conquer Shu."

"You will be in full charge of this battle."

"what?"

Liu Shan was terrified and hurriedly knelt down.

"Your subject is young and knows nothing of military affairs; how can I shoulder such a heavy responsibility?"

"If it interferes with national affairs, the consequences will be dire."

Liu Bei gently helped his son up and whispered:

"I'll teach you a method: if you don't understand something, just ask Kongming."

"If even Zhuge Liang can't solve this..."

He paused, his gaze deep, and said, "Then go ask your father."

"Prime Minister?"

Liu Shan was taken aback.

"Li Ziyu".

Liu Bei said meaningfully, "Although he has retired from officialdom, he still has a thorough understanding of all matters of state and military affairs."

"Remember, there are some things... that Kongming cannot or will not be able to do."

"Only you, Prime Minister, can do it."

Liu Shan seemed to understand something:
"My son, I understand."

……

(End of this chapter)