469. The Sun Clan Movement

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In a final, desperate clash, Shi Hui and Shi Wu's armies were decimated. Both leaders were captured, and their domains were effectively brought under the control of the Cai Clan. The victory was a significant triumph for Cai Mao, cementing his family's dominance in the region and expanding their territory. The aftermath of the battle left Jiaozhi Province in a state of uncertainty.

Shi Hui and Shi Wu, captured by Cai Mao's men, were brought before Cai Mao and Zhang Yun with their hands bound together and were forced to their knees. Seeing the two of them, Cai Mao let out an arrogant smirk, gloating at both Shi Hui and Shi Wu for the defeat they suffered at his hand due to their own incompetence.

"You thought you could stand against me," Cai Mao sneered, his eyes gleaming with triumph. "Your failure is a testament to your weakness and lack of foresight. Now, you will pay the price for your arrogance."

Listening to Cai Mao's taunts, both Shi Hui and Shi Wu seethed with rage. Despite their bound hands, they tried to lunge at Cai Mao, but the ropes and the guards behind them held them back. Their defiance only amused Zhang Yun, who let out a hearty laugh.

"Look at these two," Zhang Yun said, stepping forward and slapping them both across the face. "Even in defeat, they cling to their pride. It's almost pitiable.".

He then addressed them with a sneer. "Swear your allegiance to the Cai Clan, and you will be spared. Serve us, and you will have high-ranking positions in our government. Resist, and you will face a far worse fate."

The treatment they received from both Cai Mao and Zhang Yun was a deep disgrace. Shi Hui and Shi Wu, despite their precarious situation, refused to yield. They spat on Cai Mao's feet, their eyes burning. hatred.

"We would rather die than serve the likes of you," Shi Hui spat, his voice filled with venom.

Shi Wu echoed his sentiment, his face twisted with fury. "Your victory is a temporary one. You will pay for your arrogance."

Cai Mao's face darkened with anger at their defiance. "Very well," he said coldly. "If you refuse to submit, then you will rot in the dungeons until I decide your fate. Guards, take them away."

Shi Hui and Shi Wu were dragged away, their fates now in the hands of Cai Mao. They were thrown into

the darkest, dampest cells of the prison, where they would await the day of their execution. The guards

ensured they were treated harshly, with minimal food and water, their once proud spirits slowly eroding away in the confines of their cells.

Meanwhile, to the north in Wuling, Guan Yu, Kuai Yue, and Ju Shou were waiting for Liu Bei to arrive from Xiangyang to inspect the newly added major town to his domain. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation, as the town had recently been incorporated into Liu Bei's territory, and the people were eager to see their new lord.

Guan Yu stood at the forefront, his imposing figure exuding a sense of authority and strength. His green

armor gleamed in the sunlight, and his long beard flowed in the breeze. Kuai Yue and Ju Shou, both stood by his side, ready to discuss the future plans for the region.

As they waited, Guan Yu reflected on the recent events. Now with Wuling under their control, Liu Bei's influence was steadily growing. The capture of this key location not only provided a strategic advantage but also bolstered their resources and manpower.

Liu Bei arrived later that day, his presence bringing a sense of reassurance and hope to the people

of Wuling. As he dismounted from his horse, the crowd cheered, their voices filled with admiration and loyalty.

Liu Bei, who had falsely created a reputation for his benevolence and wisdom, acting as he smiled warmly at the gathered people, acknowledging their support while inwardly enjoying the adoration he received from the crowd.

"Second Brother, Master Kuai Yue, and Master Ju Shou," Liu Bei greeted his sworn brother and trusted advisors, "The three of you have done well in securing Wuling. This town is a crucial addition to our domain, and I am eager to see it flourish under our governance."

Guan Yu cupped his hand respectfully toward Liu Bei. "Big Brother, the people here are eager to serve and support you. With proper management and resources, Wuling can become a stronghold for our northern territories and a base to expand toward southern parts of Jing Province."

Kuai Yue nodded in agreement. "Indeed, my lord. The strategic location of Wuling allows us to strengthen our defenses and expand our influence further into the southern region. We have already begun implementing measures to ensure the town's stability and prosperity."

Ju Shou added, "With the recent victory and the consolidation of our power, our position in the northern region is much more secure, except for the northern and southeast border which we shared with Lie Fan. We must continue to build on this momentum and ensure that our people are well-protected and prosperous."

Liu Bei listened attentively, his mind already formulating plans for the future expansion he wanted inside Jing Province. "We must focus on fortifying our defenses and improving the infrastructure of Wuling. The people here must feel the benefits of our governance. Let us work together to make this town a beacon of prosperity and stability in these turbulent times."

As the discussions continued, plans were set in motion to enhance the town's defenses, improve its infrastructure, and ensure the well-being of its inhabitants. Liu Bei's presence and leadership inspired confidence among the people, and they were eager to contribute to the growth and development of their new home.

Liu Bei's visit to Wuling did not go unnoticed by the Sun Clan, who had recently regained control of Changsha from Liu Biao's forces.

Han Xuan, the governor of Changsha, had declared his allegiance to the Sun Clan, solidifying their power in the region. The presence of Liu Bei, a neighboring warlord, so close to their domain was a matter of concern for the Sun Clan.

Sun Ce, who was ambitious wanted to expand the land under the Sun Clan and, felt an intense desire to act. He was eager to seize the opportunity to capture Liu Bei and take control of Wuling, thus eliminating a potential threat and expanding his own territory.

He summoned his trusted advisors, Zhang Zhao, Zhang Hong, and Huan Jie, to discuss his intentions with them.

"We must strike now while Liu Bei is in Wuling," Sun Ce declared, his eyes blazing with determination. "Capturing him here will cripple his forces and give us control over a crucial strategic location."

However, Zhang Zhao, ever the cautious strategist, raised a hand in protest. "My lord, while your ambition is commendable, we must consider the current situation. Liu Bei's main army is in Wuling, and they are in high spirits after their recent victory over Liu Biao. Attacking them now would be unwise and could lead to unnecessary losses."

Zhang Hong nodded in agreement. "Our forces are strong, but engaging Liu Bei's well-prepared and victorious army could be disastrous. We must find a more opportune moment to strike."

Huan Jie who was silent and nodding in agreement with Zhang Zhao and Zhang Hong, added, "Moreover, a direct attack could provoke retaliation from the common people who had been charmed by Liu Bei's reputation and destabilize the region further. We should consider alternative strategies that do not involve immediate conflict with the populace."

Sun Ce, frustrated by their cautious stance, turned to the one person he thought might support his bold plan which was Zhou Yu, who had returned from Changsha after his victory in defending it from Cai Mao's attack.

Zhou Yu was not only a brilliant strategist but also like a brother to Sun Ce. Sun Ce believed that Zhou Yu would understand his desire for action and help him persuade the others.

When Sun Ce approached Zhou Yu privately, he laid out his plans. "Gonglu, my friend, you know the importance of seizing the initiative. Liu Bei is right there, within our grasp. We cannot let this opportunity slip away."

To Sun Ce's surprise, Zhou Yu did not immediately agree. Instead, he spoke thoughtfully. "Bofu, I understand your eagerness, but we must think strategically. Master Zhang Zhao, Master Zhang Hong, and Master Huan Jie are right. Attacking Liu Bei now, when his forces are strong and his morale is high, is not the best course of action."

Seeing the disappointment in Sun Ce's eyes, Zhou Yu continued, "However, we must not remain idle. There is another opportunity we can exploit. Liu Bei's forces are focused on consolidating their power in Wuling. Meanwhile, the southern lands, recently brought under Liu Biao's control after their victory over Shi Wu, are vulnerable."

Sun Ce listened intently as Zhou Yu outlined his plan. "We can launch a campaign against the southern lands. By doing so, we can expand our territory without directly confronting Liu Bei's main army. This move will also weaken Liu Bei's southern flank and place us in a stronger position for future conflicts."

Zhou Yu's plan resonated with Sun Ce. It was a calculated move that allowed them to expand their influence while avoiding a risky direct confrontation with Liu Bei. Sun Ce nodded, a smile slowly spreading across his face. "You are right, Gonglu. We will focus our efforts on the southern lands. Let us prepare for this campaign and ensure our victory."

With the plan set, Sun Ce called another council meeting with his advisors. This time, he presented Zhou Yu's strategy to them. The older advisors, seeing the wisdom in Zhou Yu's approach, agreed with the plan.

They began preparations for the campaign against the southern lands, gathering intelligence, mobilizing troops, and securing supply lines.

The Sun Clan's army, led by Sun Ce and Zhou Yu, moved swiftly and efficiently. They targeted key locations in the southern lands, exploiting the weaknesses left by the recent conflicts. Their approach was methodical, avoiding unnecessary battles and focusing on strategic gains.

As they advanced, the Sun Clan's forces encountered scattered resistance from Cai Mao and Zhang Yun's men who were stationed across the borders. However, these encounters were swiftly dealt with due to the large difference in manpower, and the Sun Clan's dominance grew. Alongside the combination of Zhou Yu's strategic brilliance and Sun Ce's decisive leadership and indomitable strength, none of Vai Mao and Zhang Yun's men could hold their advance.

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Name: Lie Fan

Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains

Age: 31 (198 AD)

Level: 16

Next Level: 462,000

Renown: 1325

Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)

SP: 1,121,700

ATTRIBUTE POINTS

STR: 951 (+20)

VIT: 613 (+20)

AGI: 598 (+10)

INT: 617

CHR: 96

WIS: 519

WILL: 407

ATR Points: 0