Gongyou at forty-eight

Page 1 of 3

At dawn the next day, Bai Zongnan awoke.

The previous night, Zhen Mi had told him to stay quietly in the room, so he had obediently closed his eyes and rested. He vaguely recalled how she had taken off his shoes, covered him with a quilt, bathed and washed him, and finally even fed him water… As Bai Zongnan thought back, a strange sensation welled up deep within his heart, both sweet and painful—a contradiction he could not resist.

He dared not presume Zhen Mi liked him, but he knew with certainty that he now loved her deeply, more than he loved himself.

All he wished was for her memory to return quickly, so she could once again be the noble daughter of the Zhen family, and perhaps then their marriage might proceed as it should.

After rising and washing, Bai Zongnan dressed himself properly and went out to buy groceries. He wanted to prepare a meal to nourish Zhen Mi, to make up for the regrets of their unfulfilled wedding night.

Of course, Bai Zongnan was currently disguised as Yuan Xi, so he needn’t worry about his true identity being exposed.

He had barely arrived at the market with his basket when he ran into Guo Jia, whom he hadn’t seen for a long time.

“Well, Gongyou, what brings you here?” Guo Jia asked in surprise.

“I’m just biding my time, working nearby,” Bai Zongnan replied with a casual lie.

“I see,” Guo Jia nodded in understanding.

“And you, Fengxiao? What are you doing in this rural town? Are you also here to earn a living?” Bai Zongnan probed.

“Heh, actually, I’m running errands these days, handling secret tasks for Cao Cao,” Guo Jia answered with a mischievous smile.

“Is that so?” Bai Zongnan exclaimed in astonishment.

“Of course. But let’s not talk about this now. Come, let me treat you to lunch,” Guo Jia said warmly, taking Bai Zongnan by the arm and leading him toward a tavern.

They stopped before an establishment called Drunken Immortal’s Abode, a famous tavern in Luoyang. Its décor was ancient and exquisite, and rumor had it that the proprietress was a stunning beauty, famed for both her looks and her extraordinary martial prowess.

After they sat down, a waiter soon brought over wine and dishes.

“Have you heard?” Guo Jia whispered, “Cao Cao submitted a memorial to the Emperor, sending Liu Biao to Jizhou to campaign against Dong Zhuo. Liu Biao was defeated en route, and his only son-in-law Xu Shu was captured by Cao Cao, becoming one of his generals.”

Hearing this, Bai Zongnan sighed inwardly. History, it seemed, was unfolding as if by some predetermined script—Cao Cao was still the ultimate victor. Yet, the details deviated from what he had read in “Romance of the Three Kingdoms.” It seemed his plan to play the prophet using his knowledge would not be so easily realized.

“After Liu Biao’s death, Jingzhou was left leaderless and factions everywhere stirred. Yuan Shu of Yanzhou and Sun Jian of Qingzhou could not sit still. The Inspector of Yanzhou, Zhang Miao, sent Lü Dai with eighty thousand elite troops east to seize Yanzhou, while Sun Ce of Qingzhou marched north to attack Liu Biao of Yuzhou. Yuan Tan sent envoys seeking help from Cao Cao, while Yuan Shao dispatched Guan Yu, Zhang Fei’s brother Zhang Xiu, and their third brother Zhang Liao from Henei to Yuzhou. Liu Biao, upon hearing this news, turned pale. He convened his vassals, and they chose Liu Qi to take charge. Liu Qi appointed Chen Deng as general and Liu Yu as strategist, leading Liu Cong, Xiahou Yuan, Xiahou Dun, and others to resist Sun Ce’s invasion. After months of fierce fighting, Yanzhou was defeated and fell, Liu Biao fled to Yangzhou, and Yuan Shao retreated to Xuzhou.”

“With Yanzhou lost, Sun Ce would not give up so easily. He pursued Liu Qi, only to fall into an ambush and suffer heavy losses. Furious, Sun Ce withdrew his troops to Qingzhou.”

Bai Zongnan felt a wave of relief.

“And what of Liu Bei?” he couldn’t help but ask.

“Liu Bei, having rebelled with Cao Cao, is now imprisoned by him. Cao Cao intends to use this opportunity to eliminate him,” Guo Jia said flatly.

“I see…” Bai Zongnan muttered.

“Gongyou, we lost the Yanzhou campaign so unjustly. We were completely deceived by that wretch Liu Bei, losing so many counties because of him. I suspect Liu Bei had long since colluded with Cao Cao—we’ve all been played,” Guo Jia said, grinding his teeth.

“Fengxiao, what do you mean by that?”

“Gongyou, have you ever heard that Emperor Cao Cao of Wei had a son named Cao Ang?” Guo Jia suddenly asked.

“I think so. I’ve heard Cao Pi was a prodigy, talented at statecraft from a young age, and Cao Cao’s favorite son. But what does this have to do with Cao Pi?” Bai Zongnan asked, puzzled.

“You’re too naive, Gongyou. Think about it—if Liu Bei were truly Cao Cao’s kin, why didn’t he simply surrender to Cao Cao? Why betray him and seize Jiangling?” Guo Jia’s tone was icy.

“Well…”

“My guess is that Liu Bei and Cao Cao conspired from the start, setting up a trap to kill Liu Biao and Liu Qi. Then Liu Bei took advantage, stole the governorship of Jingzhou, and drove Cao Cao out of Yanzhou, seizing most of its territory. This is what Cao Cao means by ‘tempering’—he wants Liu Bei to hone his son Cao Pi,” Guo Jia said, his voice grave.

“What?” Bai Zongnan was shaken.

“Do you wonder why Liu Biao was defeated so quickly, so utterly? It was all part of Cao Cao’s plan. Do you really think Liu Bei would submit to being manipulated by Cao Cao?” Guo Jia’s eyes glinted with shrewdness.

“But, but…” Bai Zongnan stammered.

“Enough, Gongyou. Now that Liu Bei is under house arrest, I suspect Cao Cao will move against him. When the time comes, let’s join forces to destroy Liu Bei and seize Jingzhou!” Guo Jia said, his voice filled with killing intent.

Sensing this, Bai Zongnan quickly tried to dissuade him. “Fengxiao, what are you planning?”

“Haha! I’m just joking, Gongyou. Did you take me seriously?” Guo Jia laughed awkwardly.

“You nearly scared me to death, making me think you were plotting rebellion,” Bai Zongnan breathed a sigh of relief.

Guo Jia thought to himself, I would never rebel. But aloud, he said, “Don’t worry, Gongyou, I’m just teasing you. How could I bear to harm you?”

“You’re always tricking me!” Bai Zongnan scolded playfully.

Guo Jia quickly tried to console him, “Don’t be angry, Gongyou. Here, have some tea to calm yourself.”

Bai Zongnan downed the tea in one gulp.

As they chatted, Guo Jia began to recount his own story.

It turned out Guo Jia was a legitimate son of the Yingchuan Guo clan, but after losing his parents and being edged out by power-hungry relatives, he was expelled from his family and left to wander the streets.

Relying on his sharp wit, Guo Jia soon rebuilt the Guo household and took a gentle, virtuous wife, who deeply influenced him for the better. Life in the Guo residence flourished.

But tragedy struck. Guo Jia’s uncle, Guo Tu, incited his elder brother Guo Ji to seize the family fortune. Guo Ji, ambitious and ruthless, stormed the house, killed Guo Jia’s parents and wife, and imprisoned Guo Jia. His sister-in-law and children, overcome with grief, drowned themselves in a well. The Guo family was annihilated. Guo Jia himself narrowly escaped, was rescued, and wandered for years before becoming an adviser to a worthy lord.

None of this was mentioned in the classic tales. These were stories Guo Jia had learned from his parents.

When the wine was gone and their conversation at an end, Bai Zongnan left the tavern, pondering. At this time, Guo Jia had not yet entered Cao Cao’s service—now was the ideal opportunity to win him over. Rather than help someone else achieve greatness, why not…

Oh no—he had chatted with Guo Jia so long that he’d forgotten to make lunch for Zhen Mi!

Panicked, Bai Zongnan bought some groceries and hurried home.

Zhen Mi had just finished bathing, donned her nightgown, and was lying on the bed reading. Bai Zongnan knocked on her door with the dishes in hand.

“Who is it?” she called sweetly.

“It’s me. I’ve cooked for you—come eat after you’ve washed up,” Bai Zongnan replied.

“Alright,” she answered softly.

Half an hour later, Zhen Mi, properly dressed, sat at the table and picked up her chopsticks. Seeing the sumptuous spread, she looked surprised. The dishes were not extravagant, but the flavors were remarkable—especially the shredded pork with garlic sauce, which was exquisite.

Noticing her staring at the dish, Bai Zongnan chuckled, “I asked a chef to prepare this specially. Try it—how does it taste?”

She nodded, took a bite, and was instantly enchanted. Chewing happily, she praised, “Gongyou, this is delicious.”

“Eat as much as you like—I made plenty,” Bai Zongnan replied with a smile.

She nodded and continued enjoying the meal.

Once she was satisfied, Bai Zongnan kept her company for a while before leaving.

…

Returning to his own residence, Bai Zongnan went in to rest.

Suddenly, he sensed something amiss outside the window and opened his eyes sharply.

A shadowy figure was slipping into his courtyard.

Sensing she was discovered, the figure turned and tried to flee.

“Hmph! Daring to trespass in my home—you court death!” Bai Zongnan roared, catching up in a flash.

He seized the intruder by the throat and threw her into the yard.

Coughing violently, she looked up at him with difficulty.

Recognizing her, Bai Zongnan frowned, “It’s you? You’re still alive?”

It was Wang Ying—the woman he had knocked unconscious with a single blow!

“Disappointed that I survived?” she sneered, pale-faced.

“If you’re alive, why pretend to be unconscious? Are you plotting revenge?” he demanded.

“I never imagined you’d be so formidable,” Wang Ying said bitterly.

“Who are you, really? Why did you try to assassinate me?” Bai Zongnan asked sternly.

“My identity is none of your concern. You may as well kill me now, for once I recover, I’ll kill you,” she spat.

“You want to kill me? Then let me oblige you first,” Bai Zongnan said coldly, reaching for her with a claw-shaped hand.

“Wait! I don’t want to fight you anymore—let’s make a deal,” Wang Ying suddenly gasped.

“A deal?” Bai Zongnan asked, surprised. “What kind of deal?”

“Spare me, and I’ll tell you everything I know,” she offered.

“And why should I believe you?” Bai Zongnan snorted.

“Believe me or not, tonight I’ll still come for your life. If you fear death, don’t make a deal—but I promise, I will kill you!” Wang Ying grinned menacingly.

Bai Zongnan frowned. This woman was cunning. He was no weakling himself, and possessed formidable mental powers—he could control others’ minds or wills. But he didn’t want to waste such effort on a fool, preferring to talk. Had she been ordinary, she’d be dead already, not standing here so smugly.

“Fine, I’ll trust you this once. Tell me your secrets,” he said.

“I know the whereabouts of Tai Shici, Lü Bu, and Li Cunxiao,” she said slowly.

“You really do?” Bai Zongnan asked excitedly.

“I know Zhao Yun and Tai Shici are near Luoyang. As for Li Cunxiao, I’m not sure,” Wang Ying replied.

“What are they doing near Luoyang?” he pressed.

“I don’t know the details. Tai Shici once saved my life—when we were ambushed by barbarian cavalry on the Hebei plains, he fought bravely and saved me. I owe him a debt. When I heard Tai Shici and Lü Bu had been captured, I decided to help them,” she said.

“Is Tai Shici badly wounded?” Bai Zongnan asked worriedly.

“He’s gravely injured—almost died,” Wang Ying replied with a shake of her head.

“Where is he now? Take me to him,” Bai Zongnan urged.

“Follow me,” she agreed.

Bai Zongnan hurried after her. Together they scaled the village walls, heading deep into the mountains.

“You want me to rescue Tai Shici?” Bai Zongnan asked as they hurried along.

“Yes. I’ve heard Lü Bu was captured too. If you can rescue him, the three of us siblings may escape,” Wang Ying replied.

“Lü Bu is Lü Bu, Tai Shici is Tai Shici—no matter who’s captured, it won’t change my resolve to destroy Cao Cao,” Bai Zongnan said resolutely.

“Then why do you want to save Tai Shici and Lü Bu?” Wang Ying asked.

“Because they are men of loyalty and courage,” Bai Zongnan said.

Wang Ying was briefly stunned by his answer.

Bai Zongnan moved at lightning speed, reaching the camp where Lü Bu and Tai Shici were held in half a day.

From afar, he saw that cavalry surrounded the encampment.

Both Lü Bu and Tai Shici were top warriors—even wounded, ordinary soldiers could not match them. If Bai Zongnan charged in recklessly, he might not only fail to save them, but also be captured himself.

After some hesitation, Bai Zongnan concealed himself, watching their every move.

At nightfall, he saw his chance. He crept in as Zhao Yun and Tai Shici slept, waking Tai Shici. Tai Shici, fully armed, with bow, crossbow, and blade, was startled to see him.

“What are you doing here?” Tai Shici exclaimed in alarm.

“I come by imperial command to rescue you,” Bai Zongnan replied calmly.

“The Emperor sent you? Is it true?” Tai Shici was shaken.

“Will you come with me?” Bai Zongnan asked.

“Of course! Go inform the lord—tell him someone is here to save us,” Tai Shici said with delight.

“Stay here. Don’t act rashly. At dawn, I’ll return with help,” Bai Zongnan instructed.

“Alright!” Tai Shici nodded.

Bai Zongnan left the tent to find Zhao Yun.

At the camp gate, several Cao soldiers saw him and drew their swords.

“Don’t try anything, or you’ll regret it!” Bai Zongnan warned, brushing past them.

“Stop!” they cried, but one sat down in terror and the others wet themselves in fear.

Ignoring them, Bai Zongnan strode to Lü Bu’s tent.

Page 2 of 3

Lü Bu had just finished washing and was about to rest when he noticed a commotion outside his quarters.

“What’s going on?” he called out, frowning.

“General, we saw a ghostly figure go by—there may be an assassin in the camp,” one guard stammered.

Lü Bu tensed. Could there really be an assassin?

Though highly skilled in combat, Lü Bu was not adept at tactics or intrigue, and often found himself at a loss in such situations.

“Where is the assassin?” he demanded.

“Right at your door, General! Hurry and stop him!” another guard urged.

“Let’s go!” Lü Bu had no choice but to deal with it himself.

Hearing the commotion, Bai Zongnan smiled wickedly—Lü Bu himself was coming out. It seemed Zhao Yun had truly been captured.

Bai Zongnan knew this was his only chance to defeat Lü Bu—he had to seize it, for once Lü Bu recovered, Bai Zongnan would stand no chance.

“Who goes there? Daring to trespass in my camp—tired of life?” Lü Bu roared.

“Ha, Lü General, don’t you recognize me? I’m here to save you,” Bai Zongnan called out.

“Nonsense! When did I ever need saving? Get lost!” Lü Bu snapped furiously.

“General Lü, he must be an impostor—let’s kill him!” a guard shouted.

Lü Bu was momentarily stunned at the youth’s audacity.

But he had no time for them, charging straight at Bai Zongnan.

“General Lü, it’s a misunderstanding. Look closely—it’s me,” Bai Zongnan quickly explained.

Lü Bu stopped, scrutinizing him, and recognized the long-lost Yuan Xi—though his appearance had changed, his bearing was unmistakable.

“Gongyou, is it truly you?” Lü Bu cried, overcome with emotion.

“It’s me, General Lü!” Bai Zongnan replied, equally moved.

“How did you become the Emperor’s bodyguard? And who is this with you?” Lü Bu asked.

“That’s Zhang Liao, another fierce warrior. They’re here to help us. General Lü, let them rescue Zhao Yun first,” Bai Zongnan ordered.

Lü Bu nodded.

“General Lü, you’re too weak to fight the enemy. Let’s end this quickly,” Bai Zongnan advised.

Lü Bu agreed, retreating into the camp.

“Fire! Kill that traitor!” a Cao soldier bellowed.

A volley of arrows rained down upon Bai Zongnan, but with a scoff, he crossed his arms before his chest, the arrows clattering harmlessly away.

“He’s a monster—don’t fight him head on! Shoot him!” the soldiers shouted, fleeing in terror as Bai Zongnan stormed the camp.

Soon, he reached the main gate and kicked down the barrier.

Dozens of guards emerged from the tents.

“Protect the lord!” one shouted.

Bai Zongnan ignored this rabble, heading straight for the main tent.

Inside, Zhao Yun lay unconscious, and Lü Bu, leaning on his halberd, struggled to fend off the attackers, his armor tattered and bloodied.

“My lord!” Bai Zongnan cried, heartbroken.

“Save the lord!”

“Stop them!”

Recognizing the newcomers, Lü Bu and his men shouted in alarm.

Bai Zongnan had no time to lose—he floored a guard with a punch and lunged into the tent.

“Die, fiend!” several Cao guards tried to rush in, but Lü Bu and Zhao Yun’s men blocked them.

“Help the lord!” Bai Zongnan wept, seeing Lü Bu’s dire state.

“Wake up, my lord!” he shook Lü Bu’s shoulders, weeping.

Lü Bu coughed and slowly regained consciousness.

“My lord, are you alright?” Bai Zongnan asked anxiously.

“I’m fine,” Lü Bu managed a weak smile.

“I’m late,” Bai Zongnan said with shame.

“It’s not your fault, I was careless. Hurry—help Zilong!” Lü Bu gestured weakly.

“Yes! Hold on, my lord—I’ll rescue General Zhao Yun at once,” Bai Zongnan said, preparing to withdraw.

At that moment, footsteps sounded outside.

“Report, Commander—the Beihai cavalry has surrounded the camp. We’re in grave danger!” a scout burst in.

Lü Bu blanched.

“Damn!” he cursed.

“General Lü, stay here. I’ll draw off the cavalry—lead the others to break out and hide somewhere safe,” Bai Zongnan instructed.

Lü Bu nodded reluctantly.

Bai Zongnan dashed out into the night, not straying far in case Lü Bu’s breakout failed. He vanished into the darkness.

Soon, the Beihai cavalry tracked down the camp.

“General, there’s a light ahead—let’s investigate,” a soldier pointed.

“Go! Let’s see!” came the reply.

Horses thundered forward.

“Lü Bu! Tonight I’ll take your life!” Bai Zongnan eyed Lü Bu coldly.

“Haha! You and what army?” Lü Bu laughed.

“I don’t believe so much has changed that our powers are so far apart!” Bai Zongnan shouted, charging at Lü Bu with his blade.

Lü Bu, though heroic, was weakened and had just fought Liu Bei’s troops. He soon fell into disadvantage, forced back by Bai Zongnan.

He gritted his teeth, hoping to hold out for reinforcements.

But fate was against him. Before long, his right arm was severed by Bai Zongnan and he collapsed, gravely wounded.

“Lü Bu! Prepare to die!” Bai Zongnan sneered, raising his spear to strike.

“Wait!” a booming voice interrupted.

“Cao Mengde, don’t think I won’t kill you,” Bai Zongnan snarled, turning to glare at Cao Cao.

“Sir, don’t be reckless! The lord is gravely wounded—he won’t last long!” Xun You pleaded.

“Lies!” Bai Zongnan shouted.

He had never met Xun You, but deduced from his address that this must be a scholar from Yingchuan.

“I come at the lord’s command!” Xun You declared.

“On whose orders? Where’s Cao Cao? Bring him here!” Bai Zongnan roared.

“Leave us—I wish to speak with him alone,” Xun You ordered the others after a moment’s thought.

The soldiers hesitated but finally left the tent.

“Now will you speak?” Bai Zongnan asked coldly.

“Cao Cao is on his way—his target is you alone. You must stay here, or he’ll soon discover your absence and won’t let you go easily!” Xun You said gravely.

Bai Zongnan frowned.

“Your Cao clan is truly ambitious! You seek to claim Jingzhou—do you not fear the aristocrats of Jiangdong?” Bai Zongnan demanded.

“Hah! Do you think the Jiangdong families still have a chance at Jingzhou?” Xun You sneered.

“What do you mean?” Bai Zongnan’s eyes narrowed.

“Have you forgotten? Cao Cao’s father, Cao Song, was once Yuan Shao’s top adviser. After Yuan Shao was killed by Dong Zhuo, Cao Song died as well. The current Prime Minister, Yuan Shu, has oppressed the Cao clan ever since usurping power. All the Cao clan’s current standing comes from their loyal service to Cao Cao,” Xun You explained.

Bai Zongnan was enlightened.

“Cao Cao’s uncles and cousins are all kin to the Yuans—his uncle Cao Ren and cousin Cao Ang are now generals. His mother, Lady Cao, was a daughter of the Yuan family, but since Yuan Shao’s death, she’s lost her standing. So the Cao clan needn’t fear the Yuans,” Xun You continued.

“I see! So all this was Yuan Shao’s design!” Bai Zongnan sighed.

“Exactly. The so-called widow of Yuan Shao is actually Yuan Tan’s wife—his sister—and Yuan Tan is Cao Cao’s cousin!” Xun You nodded approvingly.

“How did you get in here?” Bai Zongnan tensed, scanning for an ambush—he hadn’t sensed any.

He was already a first-rate warrior, something only a few like Huang Zhong could achieve.

Xun You turned pale.

“Don’t worry, we only have a few hundred men, most are out scouting,” he said quickly.

“I see,” Bai Zongnan relaxed.

“If you knew all this, why didn’t you tell me sooner, instead of making me waste so much effort searching for you?” Bai Zongnan scolded.

“Forgive me, sir! We only received news yesterday that Cao Cao was attacking, so we dared not reveal ourselves for fear of misleading you,” Xun You replied respectfully.

“Hmph! I’ll let it go this time—but next time, I won’t be so merciful!” Bai Zongnan snapped.

Xun You bowed hastily. “Thank you for your magnanimity, sir. I will heed your advice!”

“Alright, you all may go now,” Bai Zongnan waved his hand.

“Take care, sir!” Xun You glanced deeply at him and left.

“What’s your name?” Bai Zongnan asked suddenly.

“Subordinate Guo Jia!”

“Oh, Guo Fengxiao.” Bai Zongnan nodded. “From now on, you’re my personal adviser.”

“You flatter me, sir—I’m not worthy!” Guo Jia demurred.

“No need for modesty! You’re both brave and wise—following me is your best choice!” Bai Zongnan clapped him on the shoulder.

Guo Jia smiled with joy, then cupped his hands. “Guo Jia pays respects to my lord!”

“Good. From now on, we’re brothers—sharing fortune and hardship alike!” Bai Zongnan declared.

“Agreed!” Guo Jia replied solemnly.

Guo Jia led his black-clad men away swiftly.

Bai Zongnan remained in the camp, awaiting Cao Cao’s arrival.

“Sir, Cao Cao’s army is approaching! We must leave at once,” Xun You urged.

“Why panic? Aren’t they after me? Very well—let’s see what your Cao Cao is made of,” Bai Zongnan said, narrowing his eyes.

“Sir…” Xun You said worriedly.

“My mind is made up—no more talk,” Bai Zongnan replied coolly.

Page 3 of 3

“Sir, forgive my boldness. You are still wounded—it’s unwise to confront Cao Cao directly,” Xun You hesitated.

“You want to leave? Fine, then get out!” Bai Zongnan said with a sly smile.

“Sir! That’s not what I meant, I just hate to see you in danger,” Xun You pleaded.

“No more nonsense! I’m giving you two choices—pick the second, and leave at once!” Bai Zongnan said sternly.

“Sir…” Xun You tried to protest.

“Do you think my wounds are healed?” Bai Zongnan asked suddenly.

Xun You’s expression changed.

“If you want to leave, I can’t stop you!” Bai Zongnan said indifferently.

Xun You lowered his head in silence.

After a long while, he looked up, resolute. “Sir! I am willing to follow you!”

“Very good,” Bai Zongnan nodded.

“When shall we depart?” Xun You asked.

“No rush. Let’s rest and recover—leave at nightfall,” Bai Zongnan said calmly.

“As you command,” Xun You replied.

…

Night gradually fell.

A thousand meters from Bai Zongnan’s camp, in a dense forest, hundreds of steeds lay in wait.

Leading them was none other than Cao Hong.

His face was twisted, eyes bloodshot. Cao Cao’s son Cao Pi and grandson Cao Ang had died in battle; the rest of his sons were mostly gone, leaving only Cao Hong.

Though Cao Cao hadn’t blamed him, Cao Hong felt disfavored and lived in constant fear.

Cao Cao had sent assassins after him!

He ordered Cao Chun to lead five hundred guards to kill Bai Zongnan, Xu Sheng to lead five hundred tiger cavalry to raid Liu Bei’s base, and Cao Hong himself to Jizhou to raise troops against Liu Bei.

Cao Hong wasn’t stupid; he knew these orders all targeted him. But he didn’t know Cao Cao’s true intentions.

He only wished Cao Cao would stop using him.

But he hated Bai Zongnan, for his father had once told him Bai Zongnan was the one he most admired. Yet it was Bai Zongnan who killed his beloved youngest son, Cao Pi. Bai Zongnan was the man Cao Cao hated most.

Cao Hong swore to kill Bai Zongnan and avenge his brother’s death.

He led five hundred elite guards to Liu Bei’s stronghold. His plan was to attack when the base was lightly defended, kill Liu Bei, and avoid alerting his troops by keeping his numbers small.

“Brother, what’s our plan tonight?” Cao Ren asked.

“I’ll lead the charge myself—you and your five hundred men lie in wait near Liu Bei’s camp. When I give the order, attack with all your might! Remember, our sole task is to kill Liu Bei!” Cao Hong said.

“Yes, brother!” Cao Ren nodded.

They advanced toward Liu Bei’s stronghold.

The defenses were tight and sentries everywhere; a silent assault was impossible.

“Lord, the enemy approaches!” Dian Wei warned softly.

“Ignore them! Tell the scouts to keep watch,” Liu Bei replied coolly.

“A wise order, my lord!” Dian Wei flattered.

Liu Bei smiled faintly—he was the fish in the barrel now. Who could harm him?

Cao Hong and his cavalry crept closer.

“My lord, Liu Bei’s patrols are few—he probably thinks he’s safe!” Cao Ren noted.

“Perfect. Now is the time. Brothers, charge!” Cao Hong drew his sword, spurred his horse, and led the charge.

They encircled the camp to cut off reinforcements.

Liu Bei’s guards drew swords to fight, but were quickly overwhelmed and cut down.

Cao Ren joined the assault, ordering his men to fire on the defenders.

Screams echoed through the night.

“Retreat!” Dian Wei ordered, seeing defeat imminent.

“Protect the lord! Archers, loose!” Dian Wei commanded.

Arrows whistled through the air, decimating the Cao cavalry—over two-thirds fell at once.

“Retreat!” Dian Wei shouted, fleeing with his men.

Cao’s cavalry retreated under heavy fire.

Seeing the situation, Cao Hong also withdrew.

“Hahaha, Liu Bei, you are finished!” In his mansion, Cao Cao laughed triumphantly.

“Yuanhao, you have rendered great service—henceforth you are appointed General of Chariots and Cavalry!” Cao Cao beamed at Cheng Yu.

“Thank you, Your Majesty!” Cheng Yu knelt gratefully.

“Haha… Liu Xuande, you have been unjust, so I shall be unrighteous! I will destroy your Liu clan’s kingdom!” Cao Cao laughed.

Liu Bei shuddered at the sound.

“Your Majesty, may I speak?” Liu Bei asked cautiously.

“Speak freely!” Cao Cao replied.

“Your Majesty, Liu Bei is now a stray dog—why not pursue and destroy him? If you do, your prestige will soar and the gentry will revere you even more!” Liu Bei advised.

“Hah! Well said, Xuande. You are indeed my right arm! Summon the court—I shall feast the ministers today!” Cao Cao said.

“Your Majesty is wise!” Cheng Yu praised.

Cao Cao arrived at the chancellor’s residence.

Emperor Liu Xie was already waiting.

“Long live the Emperor!” Cao Cao knelt respectfully.

“Rise, beloved minister!” Liu Xie quickly helped him up.

“Thank you, Your Majesty,” Cao Cao said.

Cao Cao glanced around. “Where is the Chancellor?”

“Your Majesty, that traitor Zhang Rang plotted rebellion and must be executed as a warning!” Cao Cao said.

Liu Xie frowned, sensing a trap, but he was young and inexperienced—how could he see through such schemes?

Awakening from his dream, Bai Zongnan opened his eyes and found Zhen Mi beside him, though he was still lost in the bloody turmoil of the dream.

“Sir, you’re finally awake!” Zhen Mi exclaimed with joy.

“Mm,” Bai Zongnan replied with a slight nod.

“You must be hungry, sir. I’ll have someone prepare food at once!” Zhen Mi said, concerned.

“Mm,” Bai Zongnan answered softly.

She left, and soon a palace maid entered with a set of clothes, leaving them silently by the door.

“Sir, please change,” the maid said sweetly.

Bai Zongnan dressed and told her, “Leave me for now—I’d like to rest.”

She agreed and withdrew.

Lying on the bed, Bai Zongnan pondered his next steps. With two lives at stake, he dared not be reckless.

“Huh? Isn’t this a guesthouse room?” he suddenly realized.

He jumped up to check and confirmed it was indeed an inn.

“No wonder I dreamed of Lady Zhen Mi—was it real? Is this fate?” he murmured.

Noticing leftovers on the table, his stomach growled again. He ate happily.

Suddenly came a knock.

“Someone’s here!” Bai Zongnan jumped.

“Sir, I’ve brought you a hot meal. If you’re hungry, open the door!” Zhen Mi called gently.

“Oh!” Bai Zongnan opened the door in surprise.

She entered with the tray.

“Allow me to help you wash up, sir,” Zhen Mi smiled.

She set the dishes down, then fetched a basin and towel to wash his face, hands, and feet.

Bai Zongnan sat quietly, watching this gentle woman.

“Why haven’t you changed?” Zhen Mi asked, blushing when she saw him staring.

“Oh, I forgot to take off my robe! Help me, will you?” Bai Zongnan grinned.

“Alright,” she replied softly, biting her lip, and began to undress him.

Soon, they stood face to face.

“So… we didn’t actually do anything, right?” Bai Zongnan asked sheepishly.

She stifled a laugh. “Sir, I only wished to help you bathe!”

Bai Zongnan scratched his head in embarrassment. Feeling thirsty, he searched for tea but found none.

“Oh, I forgot to make tea!” he smacked his forehead.

“I’ll brew some for you,” Zhen Mi said.

“No need to trouble yourself,” he tried to stop her.

“It’s my pleasure to serve you,” she insisted gently.