Chapter 2: conflict**Zhao Cen: A Tale of Power and Strategy**

Zhao Cen, the commander of Yique Pass, might not possess extraordinary talents, but he's a man of integrity. Upon Lu Bu's arrival at Yique Pass, there was a brief exchange with Hu Zhen, yet he refrained from joining Lu Bu's detractors. A prominent figure beside Dong Zhuo, Zhao Cen had little inclination for court politics and sought to avoid contentious relationships, particularly with Lu Bu.

Reflecting on Sun Jian's defeat by Xu Rong the previous year, Hu Zhen was resolute in his intention to demonstrate the might of his Xiliang iron cavalry. Gathering intelligence about Yangrenju's location from Huaxiong, he decided to launch a surprise night attack on Sun Jian's camp. Hu Zhen's assessment of Sun Jian's abilities was far from laudatory, given the latter's significant loss against Xu Rong.

Amidst the discussion, Lu Bu's sudden, enigmatic laughter reverberated in the hall, startling everyone present.

"Does Governor Lu find something amusingly inappropriate?" Hu Zhen's furrowed brows directed their gaze at Lu Bu.

"It's nothing of consequence. I'm merely curious," Lu Bu's query was directed at Hu Zhen, "How did a general with average competence reach the status you enjoy today? If your skill doesn't suffice, perhaps it's your reliance on Hua Xiong?"

His inquiry hung in the air, like a sudden gust of wind disrupting the room's atmosphere. Hua Xiong, visibly affronted, lashed out at Lu Bu: "Madman, mind your words!"

Lu Bu rose to his feet, eyeing Hua Xiong intently, "I've long desired to meet the foremost general of Western Liang!"

The room's temperature seemed to plummet, a tension permeating the air. Hua Xiong's pupils contracted, sensing the latent menace in Lu Bu's demeanor. Zhao Cen, seeking a conciliatory tone, intervened, "Daduhu, General Hua, let's maintain decorum. Lu Qidu's remarks might bear another intent, and I'm here to discuss a strategy, not provoke conflict. Pardon me, Daduhu, but I am present to eliminate marauders. I fail to comprehend why Lu Bu finds this amusing?"

With a resigned smile, Zhao Cen's attempt at mediation carried an underlying hint of sarcasm. While Hu Zhen held hierarchical sway, he recognized Lu Bu's might and influence. His deferential demeanor towards Lu Bu was an acknowledgment of this reality, reflecting a deeper understanding of the political landscape.

Lu Bu's gaze shifted from Hu Zhen to Zhao Cen, devoid of hostility. He retorted, "Although my knowledge is limited, I understand the value of knowing oneself and the adversary. Currently, you're unaware of Yangrenju's location and the strength of Sun Jian's forces. Yet, you intend to launch a night assault without adequate intelligence. If Xu Rong vanquished Sun Jian, it doesn't guarantee your success. To secure victory, temper your arrogance. General Zhao, do you offer a resting place?"

Zhao Cen, familiar with Hu Zhen's temper, hurriedly nodded, leading Lu Bu out. Though Hu Zhen commanded their expedition, Lu Bu's aura prevailed. Exiting the hall, Zhao Cen directed his guards to attend to Lu Bu's accommodations before returning to the assembly.

"Excessive arrogance!" Hu Zhen's pent-up frustration erupted.

"Contain your anger, victory takes precedence," Hua Xiong's placatory tone sought to quell the hostility.

"Indeed, channel your energy towards triumph," Zhao Cen echoed, his advice tinged with a hint of resignation. Hu Zhen's character clashed with Lu Bu's assertiveness, but amidst the tumult, victory remained paramount.

"Why should I tolerate his overbearing demeanor?" Hu Zhen's scowl persisted.

"Reign in your emotions. Let's focus on the battle ahead," Hua Xiong offered, a note of helplessness underlying his words. Lu Bu's conduct befuddled Hu Zhen - a master who dared to challenge the heavens. Despite recognizing Lu Bu's tactical acumen, Hu Zhen's comprehension of political subtleties was somewhat limited.

"Bah, Hua Xiong!" Hu Zhen turned his attention to Hua Xiong.

"Present," Hua Xiong responded.

"Swiftly dispatch personnel to gather intelligence on Sun Jian's camp. Ascertain troop numbers and terrain. If Sun Jian remains unprepared, we'll initiate a covert night assault," Hu Zhen's orders resonated with gravity.

"Understood," Hua Xiong acknowledged, arranging for reconnaissance.

Zhao Cen observed the interaction, his mind churning with concern. "Might it be wiser to postpone such plans until dawn?"

"I cannot bear this humiliation!" Hu Zhen's retort carried a frigid edge, "Why must Lu Bu belittle a Western Liang general?!"

Zhao Cen's internal response was a cynical chuckle, but his words aligned with diplomatic prudence, "He might lack tact, yet focusing on victory supersedes personal qualms. Is Xu Rong's conquest any less worthy?"

"Sun Jian, hailed as Jiangdong's Tiger, met defeat at Xu Rong's hands. Why should I fear him?" Hu Zhen's disdainful tone echoed, "Jiangdong is home to barbarians, hardly the birthplace of heroes."

Zhao Cen's attempt to offer perspective bore little fruit. Frustrated, he conceded, "Best of luck in your forthcoming endeavors, Daduhu."

"Accept these good tidings," Hu Zhen acquiesced, departing with resolve. While Lu Bu's safety remained a priority, the prospect of unraveling supernatural echoes occupied Lu Bu's thoughts. Resting in his assigned chamber, Lu Bu contemplated the lingering voice's significance.

Moments later, Wei Xu rushed in, brimming with excitement, "Brother-in-law, Huaxiong inspected the camp. Word is, Hu Zhen's plotting a nocturnal assault. Should we follow suit?"

"What matters?" Lu Bu's retort dripped with indifference, "Hu Zhen's tactics hardly evoke confidence. His hastiness foretells a potential failure."

"Then our course?" Wei Xu hesitated.

"Order the soldiers to rest. Unless I decree it, disregard all else," Lu Bu's demeanor remained nonchalant. His interest was piqued not by Hu Zhen's safety, but by the ethereal whispers. Unperturbed by this dilemma, Lu Bu dismissed the notion of divine intervention, placing his trust in his own directives.

"I'll relay your orders," Wei Xu agreed, exiting the room promptly.