472. Zhang Lu Surrender To Cao Cao

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As preparations were made for the formal transfer of power, Cao Cao reflected on the broader implications. if Zhang Lu truly surrendered to him, the acquisition of Hanzhong would not only strengthen his position massively but also provide a strategic advantage in future conflicts, especially if he wanted to invade Yi Province.

Meanwhile, in Hanzhong, Zhang Lu found himself embroiled in a fierce debate within his court over his decision to surrender to Cao Cao. The conflict was not merely a political one but also deeply rooted in the religious and social fabric of the Way of the Five Pecks of Rice, which Zhang Lu presided over.

Yan Pu, Yang Ang, Zhang Wei, Yang Ren, and Yang Bo led the resistance against surrender. They were staunch traditionalists who believed that the integrity of their sect and the autonomy of Hanzhong were paramount. Yan Pu, in particular, was a fervent orator, passionately arguing against the perceived capitulation to Cao Cao.

"Lord Zhang Lu," Yan Pu began, his voice echoing through the hall, "to surrender to Cao Cao is to abandon our principles and our independence. We have resisted Liu Zhang, and we can resist Cao Cao. Our followers look to us for leadership and strength, not for surrender."

Yang Ang, supporting Yan Pu, added, "Cao Cao is a tyrant, and aligning with him would be a betrayal to our people. The Way of the Five Pecks of Rice has thrived on its independence. We cannot throw that away for promises that may never be kept."

On the other side of the argument, Yang Song, Zhang Fu, and Zhang Sheng supported Zhang Lu's decision. They saw the practical benefits of aligning with Cao Cao and understood the futility of resisting such a powerful force.

Yang Song, speaking for the pro-surrender faction, countered, "Yan Pu, we must face reality. Cao Cao's power is immense, and our resources are stretched thin. Aligning with him can bring stability and prosperity to our people. We must think of their welfare."

Zhang Fu added, "Cao Cao has promised to respect our religious practices and grant us positions of authority. This is an opportunity to ensure our teachings endure and our people thrive under a more stable regime."

The arguments grew increasingly heated, with both sides unwilling to back down. Zhang Lu, seated at the head of the hall, could feel a pounding headache forming. He rubbed his temples, trying to find a way to bring the contentious debate to a productive conclusion.

Finally, he raised his hand, signaling for silence. The hall gradually quieted down as the courtiers and sect leaders turned their attention to Zhang Lu.

"I understand the concerns on both sides," Zhang Lu began, his voice measured and calm. "But we must also consider the larger picture. Our strength is waning, and the people of Hanzhong deserve stability and peace. I have carefully weighed the options, and I believe that aligning with Cao Cao is in our best interest."

Yan Pu, still visibly agitated, replied, "But my lord, how can we trust Cao Cao? He is known for his cunning and ruthlessness. Once we surrender, he may strip us of our power and impose his will upon our people."

Zhang Lu nodded, acknowledging the concern. "Yan Pu, your concerns are valid. However, we have assurances from Cao Cao that our religious practices will be respected, and we will maintain our positions of influence. We must approach this with cautious optimism and remain vigilant."

Yang Song, seeing an opportunity to support Zhang Lu's decision, added, "My lord, we can ensure the safety of our sect and our people by maintaining a strong presence in Hanzhong. If we integrate ourselves within Cao Cao's administration, we can protect our interests from within."

The debate continued for hours, but Zhang Lu remained resolute. He knew that surrendering to Cao Cao was the most pragmatic course of action to preserve the Way of the Five Pecks of Rice and secure the future of Hanzhong.

As the court adjourned, Zhang Lu called a private meeting with his closest advisors and supporters to his decision. He wanted to ensure that the transition of power would be as smooth as possible and that his followers were prepared for the changes ahead.

"Yang Song, Zhang Fu, Zhang Sheng," Zhang Lu addressed his loyal supporters, "we must prepare our people for the transition. Inform them of our decision and reassure them that their religious practices and way of life will be preserved. We must also begin the process of integrating our administration with Cao Cao's, ensuring that we retain our influence."

The advisors nodded in agreement, understanding the gravity of the task ahead. They began making plans to disseminate the news to the followers of the Way of the Five Pecks of Rice and to coordinate with Cao Cao's envoys.

As Zhang Lu's court worked through the logistics of the surrender, Cao Cao's envoys arrived in Hanzhong, bearing gifts and official documents formalizing the terms of the agreement. The envoys were greeted with a mix of apprehension and curiosity by the people of Hanzhong, who were eager to see how their lives would change under Cao Cao's rule.

The formal surrender ceremony was held in Hanzhong's main hall, with Zhang Lu and Cao Cao's representatives signing the documents that officially transferred control of Hanzhong to Cao Cao. The ceremony was both solemn and hopeful, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for Hanzhong and its people.

Zhang Lu addressed his followers, standing before them with a calm and reassuring demeanor. "My people, today we join forces with Cao Cao, not as a sign of weakness, but as a strategic move to ensure our survival and prosperity. Our teachings and way of life will continue, and we will work together to build a better future for Hanzhong."

The followers, though initially apprehensive, began to see the wisdom in Zhang Lu's decision. They trusted their leader and believed in his vision for the future.

As the integration process began, Zhang Lu's administration worked closely with Cao Cao's officials to ensure a smooth transition. The Way of the Five Pecks of Rice continued to flourish, with its teachings and practices respected under the new regime.

Back in Luoyang, Cao Cao received the news of Zhang Lu's formal surrender with satisfaction. The acquisition of Hanzhong was a significant strategic victory, bolstering his position and expanding his influence.

Cao Cao, ever the strategist, began to make plans for the next phase of his expansion. He knew that the consolidation of Hanzhong was just the beginning and that there were still many challenges ahead.

"Zhang Lu's surrender is a testament to our growing power," Cao Cao remarked to his advisors. "But we must not become complacent. There are still many rivals and enemies who seek to challenge us. We must continue to strengthen our forces and expand our influence."

Xun Yu, always the voice of reason, added, "Indeed, my lord. We must also ensure that Hanzhong is fully integrated into our administration. We need to build strong relationships with the local leaders and ensure that our presence is accepted by the people."

Cheng Yu, ever cautious, warned, "We must also remain vigilant for any signs of dissent. While Zhang Lu has surrendered, there may still be factions within Hanzhong that oppose our rule. We need to address any potential threats swiftly and decisively."

Cao Cao nodded, appreciating the advice of his trusted advisors. "We will proceed with caution and determination. Hanzhong is a valuable addition to our territory, and we must ensure its stability and prosperity."

After Cao Cao's words were finished, Xun Yu, Cheng Yu, and Jia Kui cupped their hands and took their leave to ensure that Hanzhong and the rest of Zhang Lu's domain integrated into Cao Cao's domain without any problems.

As Cao Cao's power increased with Zhang Lu's surrender, Lie Fan received the news from the Oriole agents stationed in Luoyang and Hanzhong. Lie Fan was surprised because he didn't expect this to happen.

In the original timeline, Zhang Lu surrendered only when Cao Cao firmly controlled the north of China. However, in this altered timeline, Zhang Lu's surrender happened earlier, and Cao Cao was still relatively weaker.

In response, Lie Fan immediately held an emergency meeting with his inner council, consisting of Jia Xu, Xun You, Chen Qun, Liu Ye, Chen Gong, Lu Su, and Sima Yi. They needed to discuss what plans should be advanced or sped up in light of Cao Cao's successful persuasion of Zhang Lu to join him.

As the council members gathered in the hall, Lie Fan stood at the head of the table, his expression serious. "Everyone," he began, "we have received significant news. Zhang Lu has surrendered to Cao Cao, which was unexpected at this stage. This move strengthens Cao Cao's position considerably, and we must adjust our strategies accordingly."

Jia Xu nodded thoughtfully as he processed the news. "This development changes the balance of power. Cao Cao's acquisition of Hanzhong not only provides him with a strategic foothold but also bolsters his resources. We must be proactive in countering this new threat."

Xun You agreed with Jia Xu's words, adding, "We should consider accelerating our plans to consolidate our control over the Central Plains. Strengthening our infrastructure and military presence in key regions will be crucial."

Chen Qun, focused on legal and administrative matters, suggested, "We must also ensure that our governance is efficient and just. If we can demonstrate effective rule and gain the loyalty of the people, it will be harder for Cao Cao to challenge us."

Liu Ye concerned with their logistics, pointed out, "Securing supply lines and improving our logistical capabilities will be essential. We need to be able to support our troops effectively if a conflict arises, especially on the western front."

Chen Gong proposed, "Perhaps we should consider forming alliances with other warlords who are also wary of Cao Cao's growing power like Liu Zhang. A united front could present a formidable obstacle to his ambitions."

Lu Su, with his diplomatic skills, agreed, "Diplomacy will play a crucial role. We should reach out to potential allies and establish mutually beneficial relationships. Strengthening our alliance with Sun Ce could also be advantageous."

Sima Yi, the youngest but had the same level of intelligence as the other advisors, spoke up, "We must also be vigilant for any signs of internal dissent or disloyalty within our own ranks. Cao Cao is known for his cunning and may attempt to sow discord among us."

Lie Fan listened carefully to the suggestions of his council. "All of your points are well taken," he said. "We must act swiftly and decisively. Jia Xu, Xun You, I want you to coordinate the consolidation of our territories in the Central Plains. Focus on strengthening our infrastructure and fortifications."

Turning to Chen Qun and Liu Ye, he continued, "Ensure that our governance is efficient and that our supply lines are secure. We cannot afford any disruptions."

To Chen Gong and Lu Su, he instructed, "Begin reaching out to potential allies and exploring diplomatic avenues. Establishing strong relationships with other warlords will be critical."

Finally, addressing Sima Yi, he said, "Monitor our internal situation closely. We cannot allow any cracks to form within our own ranks. Ensure loyalty and unity among our people."

The council members nodded in agreement, ready to take on their respective tasks. Lie Fan knew that the coming months would be crucial in determining the balance of power in the region. Cao Cao's acquisition of Hanzhong was a significant move, but with careful planning and decisive action, they could counter his ambitions.

As the meeting adjourned, each advisor set to work on their assigned tasks. Jia Xu and Xun You began organizing the consolidation efforts, focusing on strengthening key regions and ensuring that their infrastructure was robust. They knew that control over the Central Plains was vital for their strategic positioning.

Chen Qun and Liu Ye worked on improving governance and logistical capabilities. They streamlined administrative processes and implemented measures to ensure that supplies and resources flowed smoothly to support their growing army.

Chen Gong and Lu Su initiated diplomatic efforts, reaching out to potential allies and negotiating terms for mutual cooperation. They knew that building a network of allies would create a formidable coalition against Cao Cao's ambitions. Sima Yi, ever watchful, kept a close eye on internal affairs, ensuring that loyalty remained strong and that any signs of dissent were swiftly addressed. He understood that unity within their own ranks was essential for their success.

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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