Greetings, Young Master Forty.

Bai Zongnan gazed in a daze at the woman before him—her white gown flowed elegantly, her beauty was ethereal, and between her brows shone an aura of heroism. Was she truly his future wife?

He remembered seeing this peerless woman countless times in his dreams, often imagining a night spent beside such a beauty, though it had always been mere fantasy. Now, she stood before him, real and tangible.

“Greetings, sir. My name is Zhen Mi,” she said, extending her delicate hand with a smile.

“Oh, yes, hello,” Bai Zongnan quickly took her slender hand, his heart pounding.

Zhen Ji’s cheeks flushed as she spoke softly, “My name is Zhen Ji, the second strategist under Cao Cao. We are already married; you may call me your wife.”

“What? You... you married me?” Bai Zongnan was stunned.

Zhen Ji nodded gently, a smile of happiness lighting her face.

Bai Zongnan felt as though he had fallen into a labyrinth of fate, his mind dizzy. He shook his head hard, striving to regain clarity.

At last, he understood why a woman clad in ancient attire had suddenly appeared before him. She was the legendary Zhen Mi, and he himself was Yuan Xi, the second son of Yuan Shao.

“No wonder I kept dreaming—it was all the workings of fate. I actually married Zhen Mi!” Bai Zongnan murmured.

Suddenly, he recalled a passage in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms where Zhen Mi was seized by Xu Chu and violated. At the thought, Bai Zongnan shivered, quickly shaking his head to banish such memories. After a moment’s contemplation, he spoke solemnly to Zhen Mi, “I know this marriage is absurd, but the matter is done, and I must take responsibility. A true man owns his actions. I have decided to take you as my wife—do you accept?”

Zhen Mi trembled slightly, then her face blossomed with joy. “I do, I do! I’ve always dreamed of such a life. I’ve heard the imperial house boasts three palaces and seventy-two concubines—how I longed for that. Never did I expect my destiny to fall upon my own shoulders.”

Bai Zongnan smiled wryly. It was not her destiny, but his.

He scrutinized the woman before him: arched brows, eyes clear as autumn waters, a proud nose, cherry lips, fair and radiant skin—truly a beauty beyond compare.

He mused inwardly: though I’ve never been in love, I’ve read plenty—such a beauty is unmatched in all the land. And she’s a noble lady! To possess her is an honor. If only I truly were Yuan Xi, I would never forsake her.

Zhen Mi seemed to sense Bai Zongnan’s hesitation and asked, “What’s wrong? Do you not wish it?”

“No, I’m just thinking how to explain matters to the Cao family.”

Zhen Mi laughed, “Our marriage was decreed—who cares for such things?”

Bai Zongnan thought, that’s true enough.

“By the way, you mentioned the ‘imperial emperor.’ Is Cao Cao of the imperial clan?” Zhen Mi asked.

Bai Zongnan shook his head, “Of course not. Cao Cao is called the imperial minister, but in truth he’s a traitor, unfit to share the world with my father.”

“So that’s how it is.”

“Yes. Tell me about your family, so I can prepare the bride-price.”

“All right.”

Bai Zongnan then recounted his own upbringing and asked about her family.

He was shocked by her answer, for in his knowledge, the Zhen family was a prominent clan.

The Zhen ancestors produced two top scholars, three successful candidates, and even the current prime minister Zhen Yi hailed from their line, holding office as Inspector of the Capital. The Zhen family was once wealthy, but had since declined, leaving only a handful of descendants.

Bai Zongnan sighed at their downfall.

Zhen Mi, however, responded calmly, “What does it matter? My grandfather was a direct descendant of the Yingchuan gentry, but after an error, he was expelled. Now old and frail, he survives on a few acres of poor land.”

Bai Zongnan frowned; her circumstances were worse than he had imagined. Yet he said nothing—everyone faces their own choices.

He changed the subject, “And your father and elder brother?”

Zhen Mi sighed, “My father died unjustly, and my brother passed young.”

“So you’re the only one left in your family?” Bai Zongnan asked.

“Yes. My father’s death was wrongful, and my brother’s was caused by Cao Cao. Cao Cao is cruel, treating the people as animals—I hate him deeply,” she said, her voice trembling with rage.

Bai Zongnan said nothing more, silently leading her to sit beside a bed.

“You must be tired. Lie down and rest,” Zhen Mi said, tenderly helping him onto the bed.

Gazing at the incomparable beauty before him, Bai Zongnan’s heart surged.

She was his wife—one he had actively sought. The feeling was wondrous.

Lying on the bed, he felt his soul drifting among the clouds.

Then he saw Zhen Mi loosen her clothing and rest atop his chest, falling asleep. Her arms were folded near her face, and her delicate features glowed under the lamp, as if sculpted from jade. Her skin was smooth and flawless, inviting the touch.

Bai Zongnan stared, entranced, his heart filled with an overwhelming urge to embrace her, to cherish her.

Yet reason held him back. He was but borrowing Yuan Xi’s identity. If he overstepped, and Yuan Shao or Yuan Shang discovered it, the consequences would be dire.

He forced his excitement to subside.

“Hey!” Suddenly, Zhen Mi called softly in his ear.

Startled, Bai Zongnan turned. “What is it?”

“Why do you keep staring at me? Is it because you find me beautiful and want to possess me?” Zhen Mi’s cheeks flushed.

Bai Zongnan was speechless.

“Though I am but a merchant’s daughter, I know the meaning of shame. Rest assured, I won’t cling to you.”

“That’s not what I meant,” Bai Zongnan hurried to explain, unwilling to lose such a beautiful, kind wife.

“Then are you rejecting me?” Zhen Mi pouted, her lips trembling, eyes misty.

Bai Zongnan frantically waved his hands, “No, not at all! Don’t cry—I didn’t mean that, I just…”

Zhen Mi cast him a wounded glance, “Hmph, whatever your reason, I won’t marry you.”

Seeing her angry, Bai Zongnan was at a loss.

“Do you find me ugly?”

“No, never! I just think... perhaps we shouldn’t see each other again. I’ll leave now with the bride-price.”

Zhen Mi shook her head, “No, you must stay with me. Otherwise, I’ll report you to the authorities for abducting a maiden.”

Bai Zongnan was stunned.

Zhen Mi continued, “I know you’ve read many classics and understand virtue. But don’t forget, Cao Cao is a tyrant, slaughtering loyal men and bullying women and children. Shouldn’t you act for justice?”

“You’re right. But I’m just an ordinary man, ill-suited for such turmoil.”

“Don’t worry—Cao Cao is no match for you,” Zhen Mi declared confidently.

“How do you know him so well? Who are you?” Bai Zongnan asked.

The next morning, Bai Zongnan awoke.

The previous night, Zhen Mi had made him stay quietly in the chamber. She had removed his shoes, covered him with a blanket, bathed and tended him, even brought him water. As he recalled these moments, a bittersweet feeling welled within—so sweet, yet so painful, an irresistible contradiction.

He couldn’t be sure if Zhen Mi loved him, but he knew he loved her deeply, perhaps more than himself.

He only wished she would regain her memory, reclaim her noble identity, so their marriage could progress.

Bai Zongnan rose, washed, dressed, and went out to buy groceries. He intended to cook, to nourish Zhen Mi, making up for the missed wedding night.

Of course, as he now posed as Yuan Xi, there was no fear of exposure.

Arriving at the market with his basket, he ran into Guo Jia, whom he hadn’t seen in ages.

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

“I’m just working nearby to pass the days,” Bai Zongnan lied.

“Oh, I see,” Guo Jia nodded.

“What about you, Fengxiao? Why are you in this little town? Are you working for a living too?” Bai Zongnan probed.

“Heh, I’m actually running errands for someone, handling some private matters for Cao Cao,” Guo Jia said with a smile.

Bai Zongnan was surprised, “Is that true?”

“Of course. But let’s not discuss it here—come, I’ll treat you to lunch.” Guo Jia warmly led Bai Zongnan to a tavern.

They stopped before a renowned establishment, Drunken Immortal’s Abode, famous in Luoyang. Its décor was classic and elegant, and rumor had it the proprietress was a stunning beauty, both lovely and skilled in martial arts.

After taking their seats, Bai Zongnan and Guo Jia waited for the food.

“Have you heard? Cao Cao petitioned the emperor to send Liu Biao to Jizhou against Dong Zhuo, but Liu Biao was defeated en route. Liu Biao’s only son-in-law, Xu Shu, was captured by Cao Cao and now serves as his general,” Guo Jia whispered.

Bai Zongnan sighed inwardly. History unfolded as expected, with Cao Cao emerging as victor. Yet, the story diverged from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, making it difficult for Bai Zongnan to act as a “prophet.”

“After Liu Biao’s death, Jingzhou was leaderless and chaos ensued. Yuan Shu of Yanzhou and Sun Jian of Qingzhou mobilized. Zhang Miao led eighty thousand elite eastward to seize Yanzhou; Sun Ce marched north against Liu Biao. Yuan Tan sent envoys for help, hoping Cao Cao would assist; Yuan Shao dispatched Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhang Xiu, and Zhang Liao to Henan. Liu Biao, upon hearing, summoned his lords, and Liu Qi was chosen to lead. Liu Qi appointed Chen Deng as general, Liu Yu as adjutant, commanding Liu Cong, Xiahou Yuan, Xiahou Dun and others to resist Sun Ce’s invasion. After months of battle, Yanzhou fell, and Liu Biao retreated to Yangzhou, Yuan Shao to Xuzhou.”

“Sun Ce, unwilling to lose Yanzhou, pursued Liu Qi, but fell into an ambush and suffered heavy losses. In anger, Sun Ce returned to Qingzhou.”

Bai Zongnan felt relieved.

“What about Liu Bei?” he asked.

“Liu Bei, after rebelling with Cao Cao, is now imprisoned by him—Cao Cao intends to kill him,” Guo Jia replied.

“I see,” Bai Zongnan murmured.

“Gongyou, the defeat in Yanzhou was unjust. We were misled by Liu Bei and lost so many counties. I suspect Liu Bei was allied with Cao Cao all along,” Guo Jia said, grinding his teeth.

“What makes you say that?”

“Have you ever heard of Cao Cao’s son, Cao Ang?” Guo Jia asked abruptly.

“Yes, I’ve heard that Cao Pi is a prodigy, skilled in governance and Cao Cao’s favorite. But what does that have to do with Cao Pi?” Bai Zongnan wondered.

“Gongyou, you’re too naïve. Think: if Liu Bei is Cao Cao’s kin, why not surrender directly, instead of betraying him and seizing Jiangling?” Guo Jia’s tone was icy.

“Well…”

“Gongyou, I suspect Liu Bei plotted with Cao Cao to kill Liu Biao and Liu Qi, seize Jingzhou, and drive out Cao Cao, taking much of Yanzhou. This is what Cao Cao meant by ‘weakening’—he wants Liu Bei to temper his son Cao Pi!” Guo Jia declared.

“What?” Bai Zongnan was shaken.

“Do you really think Liu Biao lost so quickly and badly by accident? Cao Cao set the trap. And do you think Liu Bei would submit to Cao Cao’s whims?” Guo Jia’s eyes gleamed with intelligence.

“But, but…”

“Gongyou, enough ‘but.’ Now that Liu Bei is captive, I believe Cao Cao will act. When he does, you and I will join forces to destroy Liu Bei and seize Jingzhou!” Guo Jia said excitedly.

Sensing Guo Jia’s intent, Bai Zongnan quickly cautioned, “Fengxiao, what are you planning?”

“Haha! Gongyou, I’m only joking. Don’t take it so seriously,” Guo Jia said, awkwardly.

“You scared me—I thought you were plotting rebellion,” Bai Zongnan breathed a sigh of relief.

Guo Jia thought to himself, “I wouldn’t rebel,” but said, “Rest assured, Gongyou, just teasing. How could I bear to harm you?”

“You’re always fooling me!” Bai Zongnan teased.

Guo Jia quickly comforted him, “Gongyou, don’t be angry. Have some tea.”

Bai Zongnan drank the tea in one gulp.

As they continued, Guo Jia spoke of his origins.

Guo Jia was a direct descendant of the Yingchuan Guo clan, but orphaned and ostracized by feuding relatives, expelled from his family, and left to wander the streets. He struggled alone, using his sharp mind to establish the Guo residence, eventually marrying a gentle, noble wife. Under her influence, Guo Jia became more upright, and their household flourished.

But good fortune was short-lived. Guo Jia’s uncle, Guo Tu, seeing his success, incited his brother Guo Ji to seize the Guo estate. Guo Ji, ambitious, stormed the residence, killed Guo Jia’s parents and wife, and imprisoned Guo Jia. His sister-in-law and children, grief-stricken, took their own lives. The Guo family was destroyed. Guo Jia survived, rescued by others, and wandered for years, seeking a worthy lord, becoming an advisor.

These events weren’t recorded in the romance, but were relayed by Guo Jia’s parents.

After departing the tavern, Bai Zongnan mused that Guo Jia had not yet become Cao Cao’s advisor—this was the perfect time to recruit him. Rather than help another achieve greatness, why not himself?

Oh no... He’d spent too long chatting and forgotten to cook for Zhen Mi!

He broke into a sweat, hurriedly bought some groceries, and rushed home.

Zhen Mi, freshly bathed and wearing nightclothes, lay reading on the bed. Bai Zongnan knocked with the food.

“Who is it?” Zhen Mi asked sweetly.

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

“Oh,” Zhen Mi answered softly.

Half an hour later.

Zhen Mi, dressed neatly, took a seat at the table and picked up her chopsticks. Her gaze swept the sumptuous dishes, surprise in her eyes. The fare was simple but delicious, especially the shredded fish with fragrant sauce.

Seeing her stare at the dish, Bai Zongnan laughed, “I had it cooked specially. Try it.”

Zhen Mi nodded, tasted a bite, and was delighted. “Gongyou, this is wonderful.”

“Eat more. I made plenty for you,” Bai Zongnan said with a smile.

Zhen Mi nodded, savoring the meal.

Once they finished, Bai Zongnan accompanied her for a while before leaving.

...

Returning home, Bai Zongnan rested.

Suddenly, he detected movement outside the window, and opened his eyes to see a shadow sneaking into his courtyard.

The figure realized she’d been spotted and quickly fled.

“You dare trespass in my house? Courting death!” Bai Zongnan shouted, chasing her down.

He grabbed her by the neck and tossed her into the yard.

The shadow coughed violently, struggling to look at him.

Bai Zongnan frowned, recognizing Wang Ying, whom he had previously knocked out.

“You survived? Disappointed?” Wang Ying sneered, pale.

“If you’re alive, why feign unconsciousness? Seeking revenge?” Bai Zongnan demanded.

“I didn’t expect your martial skills,” Wang Ying said bitterly.

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

“That’s not for you to know. Kill me if you wish. If I recover, I’ll kill you,” Wang Ying threatened.

“You want me dead? I’ll send you on your way first,” Bai Zongnan laughed, clawing at her.

“Wait! I don’t wish to tangle with you further. Let’s make a deal,” Wang Ying gasped.

“A deal?” Bai Zongnan raised an eyebrow. “What kind?”

“Spare me, and I’ll tell you everything I know,” Wang Ying said.

“Why should I trust you?” Bai Zongnan snorted.

“You don’t have to. But tonight, I’ll come for you. If you fear death, don’t deal with me. I promise I’ll kill you!” Wang Ying grinned.

Bai Zongnan frowned—she was cunning. His martial arts were formidable, and he possessed strong mental powers, able to control thoughts or will. But he preferred not to waste effort on fools, so he entertained her talk. If she were ordinary, she’d have died already.

“Fine, I’ll believe you this once. What secrets do you know?” Bai Zongnan asked.

“I know the whereabouts of Tai Shi Ci, Lü Bu, and Li Cunxiao,” Wang Ying said.

“You truly know where they are?” Bai Zongnan was excited.

“I know Zhao Yun and Tai Shi Ci are near Luoyang; I’m unclear about Li Cunxiao,” Wang Ying said.

“What are they doing near Luoyang?” Bai Zongnan asked.

“I don’t know. Tai Shi Ci once saved my life. When we were attacked by Hu cavalry in Hebei, Tai Shi Ci fought bravely, or I’d have died. So I owe him. Hearing Lü Bu and Tai Shi Ci were captured, I decided to rescue them,” Wang Ying replied.

“Is Tai Shi Ci badly injured?” Bai Zongnan asked with concern.

“He’s gravely wounded—nearly died,” Wang Ying shook her head.

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

“Follow me,” Wang Ying agreed.

Bai Zongnan hurried after her, scaling walls and heading deep into the mountains.

“You want me to rescue Tai Shi Ci?” Bai Zongnan asked as they sped along.

“Yes. I heard Lü Bu was captured too. If you save him, we three siblings may escape,” Wang Ying said.

“Lü Bu is Lü Bu, Tai Shi Ci is Tai Shi Ci. Whichever is captured, it doesn’t change my resolve to destroy Cao Cao,” Bai Zongnan said firmly.

“Then why rescue them?” Wang Ying asked.

“Because they are loyal and courageous men,” Bai Zongnan replied.

Wang Ying was taken aback.

They traveled swiftly, reaching the camp where Lü Bu and Tai Shi Ci were held by midday.

From afar, they saw cavalry stationed around the camp.

Both Lü Bu and Tai Shi Ci were elite warriors—even wounded, they were not easy prey. If Bai Zongnan charged in recklessly, he might fail to rescue them and be surrounded.

After some deliberation, Bai Zongnan hid and observed their movements.

When night fell, Bai Zongnan seized his chance. He sneaked in while Zhao Yun and Tai Shi Ci slept, waking Tai Shi Ci. Tai Shi Ci was fully armed, bow on his back, blade at his waist.

“How did you come here?” Tai Shi Ci was startled upon waking.

“I am sent by His Majesty to rescue you,” Bai Zongnan replied calmly.

“His Majesty sent you? Is this true?” Tai Shi Ci was shocked.

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

“Of course! Go tell our lord—we’re being rescued,” Tai Shi Ci said joyfully.

“Stay put. Don’t act rashly. At dawn, I’ll bring help,” Bai Zongnan instructed.

“Very well!” Tai Shi Ci nodded.

Bai Zongnan left to find Zhao Yun.

“Who are you?” Several Cao camp guards saw Bai Zongnan and drew swords.

“You’d best not act, or you’ll regret it,” Bai Zongnan warned, slipping past them.

“Stop!” The guards panicked.

“Ghost! There’s a ghost!” One guard collapsed in terror, others wet themselves.

Bai Zongnan ignored them, heading to Lü Bu’s tent.

Lü Bu, freshly washed and ready to rest, noticed a commotion outside.

“What’s happening?” Lü Bu asked, frowning.

“General, a ghost flashed by—we suspect an assassin,” a guard stammered.

Lü Bu was uneasy—could there really be an assassin?

Though skilled in combat, Lü Bu was not adept at tactics and often struggled in battle.

“Where’s the assassin?” Lü Bu asked gravely.

“Just outside your tent, General. Stop him!” a guard urged.

“Come!” Lü Bu had no choice but to act.

Hearing the clamor, Bai Zongnan smiled wickedly. Lü Bu had come in person—this was his chance.

“Who goes there? Daring to trespass my camp—you must be tired of living!” Lü Bu roared.

“Heh, General Lü, don’t you recognize me? I’m here to rescue you,” Bai Zongnan answered.

“Nonsense! I don’t need you. Leave!” Lü Bu snapped.

“General Lü, this man is an imposter—let’s kill him!” a guard shouted.

Lü Bu was stunned—this kid was bold.

He ignored them and charged Bai Zongnan.

“General Lü, it’s a misunderstanding. Look closely,” Bai Zongnan pleaded.

Lü Bu paused, scrutinizing Bai Zongnan, and recognized him as Yuan Xi—though his appearance had changed, his aura remained.

“Gongyou, is it really you?” Lü Bu asked excitedly.

“It is, General Lü!” Bai Zongnan replied.

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

“He’s Zhang Liao, a mighty general, here to rescue us. Let him save Zhao Yun first,” Bai Zongnan instructed.

Lü Bu nodded.

“General Lü, you’re weak—avoid combat. Let’s finish quickly,” Bai Zongnan advised.

Lü Bu agreed, retreating to the camp.

“Fire arrows! Kill the imperial imposter!” a Cao camp guard shouted.

Suddenly, bowstrings sounded—a volley of arrows rained down on Bai Zongnan.

He snorted, crossing his arms to block. The arrows bounced off with a metallic clang.

“He’s a formidable warrior—don’t fight him. Shoot!” the guards shouted.

Bai Zongnan’s cold gaze swept them, then he charged the camp.

The Cao camp guards fled in terror.

Moments later, Bai Zongnan reached the camp gate and kicked it open.

Dozens of guards rushed from the tent.

“Protect the lord!” a guard shouted.

Bai Zongnan ignored them, striding outside the tent.

Inside, Zhao Yun was unconscious.

Lü Bu, leaning on his halberd, struggled to fend off Liu Bei’s troops. His armor was shredded and bloody.

“Lord!” Seeing Lü Bu’s state, Bai Zongnan was heartbroken.

“Rescue the lord!”

“Block them!”

Lü Bu and the guards, seeing the newcomer, cried out urgently.

Bai Zongnan had no time for distractions—he knocked aside a guard, then dashed into the tent.

“Villain, prepare to die!” Several Cao guards tried to enter, but Lü Bu and Zhao Yun intercepted them.

“Save my lord!” Bai Zongnan cried, seeing Lü Bu near death.

“Lord! Wake up!” Bai Zongnan shook Lü Bu’s shoulder, weeping.

Lü Bu coughed, slowly awakening.

“Lord! Are you all right?” Bai Zongnan asked with concern.

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

“I arrived late,” Bai Zongnan said, ashamed.

“It’s not your fault—I was careless! Go rescue Zilong,” Lü Bu urged.

“Very well! Please hold on, Lord. I’ll rescue General Zhao Yun and the others,” Bai Zongnan nodded, preparing to retreat.

Just then, footsteps echoed outside.

“Report, Commander! Beihai cavalry has surrounded the camp. We are in grave danger!” the scout cried.

Lü Bu’s face turned pale.

“Damn!” Lü Bu cursed.

“General Lü, stay here. I’ll draw the cavalry away—lead the survivors to escape. Find a safe place and hide,” Bai Zongnan instructed solemnly.

Lü Bu nodded reluctantly.

Bai Zongnan rushed out.

He didn’t venture far, worried Lü Bu might fail to break out. His figure vanished into the night.

Soon, Beihai cavalry tracked the camp.

“General, there’s fire ahead. Let’s check it out,” a soldier pointed.

“Go!” the general ordered.

“Hyah! Hyah...”

Horses thundered forward.

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

“Haha! You?” Lü Bu laughed.

“I don’t believe our strength has diverged so much in this time!” Bai Zongnan growled, charging with his blade.

Lü Bu, undaunted, wielded his halberd to meet him.

Though heroic, Lü Bu’s weakened state and exhaustion from battle left him at a disadvantage. Bai Zongnan pressed him hard.

Lü Bu gritted his teeth, hoping to delay for reinforcements.

But it was futile.

Soon, Bai Zongnan severed Lü Bu’s right arm, gravely wounding him.

“Lü Bu! Prepare to die!” Bai Zongnan sneered, thrusting his spear at Lü Bu’s throat.

“Wait!” A booming voice halted him.

“Cao Mengde, don’t think I fear you!” Bai Zongnan turned, glaring at Cao Cao.

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

“Nonsense!” Bai Zongnan retorted angrily.

He’d never met Xun You, but guessed from his address that he was a scholar from Yingchuan.

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

“At the lord’s command? Where’s Cao Cao? Tell him to show himself!” Bai Zongnan shouted.

“You all leave—I’ll speak with him alone,” Xun You said after a pause.

The soldiers hesitated, then withdrew.

“Now speak,” Bai Zongnan said coldly.

“Cao Cao is marching here; his only target is you. So you must stay. If he finds you gone, he won’t let you escape,” Xun You said gravely.

Bai Zongnan frowned.

“Your Cao clan covets Jingzhou—aren’t you afraid of resistance from the southern families?” Bai Zongnan demanded.

“Hah! Do you think they still have a chance?” Xun You scoffed.

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

“Have you forgotten? Cao Cao’s father, Cao Song, was Yuan Shao’s top adviser. After Yuan Shao was slain by Dong Zhuo, Cao Song died too. Since Yuan Shu usurped, he’s suppressed the Cao clan. Their current status is earned through loyal service!” Xun You explained.

Bai Zongnan understood.

“Cao Cao’s uncle, cousins—all are of the Yuan clan. His uncle Cao Ren and Cao Ang stand out among them, now cavalry generals. Cao Cao’s mother is a Yuan lady. While Yuan Shao lived, she was a noble daughter; now, she’s nothing. So Cao Cao need not fear the Yuan clan,” Xun You continued.

Bai Zongnan was enlightened.

“So it’s all Yuan Shao’s scheme!” Bai Zongnan sighed.

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

“How did you infiltrate?” Bai Zongnan asked, alert.

He was now at a top tier.

Only a few, like Huang Zhong, could match him.

Xun You’s face stiffened.

“Rest assured, sir, we have only a few hundred soldiers, all out scouting,” Xun You said quickly.

“I see,” Bai Zongnan relaxed.

“Since you know so much, why not inform me sooner? I wasted much effort searching!” Bai Zongnan complained.

“Forgive me, sir! We only received news yesterday—Cao Cao’s army advances. We dared not appear, lest we mislead you,” Xun You replied respectfully.

“Hmph! I’ll let you off this time. If it happens again, I’ll show no mercy!” Bai Zongnan warned.

Xun You was alarmed, bowing, “Thank you for your magnanimity, sir. I will remember your lesson!”

“All right! Leave now,” Bai Zongnan waved.

“Take care, sir!” Xun You glanced at him deeply, then departed.

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

“Guo Jia, your humble servant.”

“Oh, Guo Fengxiao. From now on, you are my personal advisor,” Bai Zongnan said.

“You flatter me, sir. I dare not accept,” Guo Jia protested.

“No need for humility. You have courage and wisdom—serving me is your best choice!” Bai Zongnan patted his shoulder.

Guo Jia smiled, then bowed, “Guo Jia greets my lord!”

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

“Agreed!” Guo Jia replied solemnly.

Guo Jia led his men away swiftly.

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

“Sir, Cao Cao’s forces approach! We must leave quickly,” Xun You urged.

“Why panic? They want me—let me see what Cao Cao is made of,” Bai Zongnan said, narrowing his eyes.

“Sir...” Xun You was worried.

“My mind is made up. No more words!” Bai Zongnan said calmly.

“Forgive my boldness, sir. You are wounded and should not confront Cao Cao directly,” Xun You hesitated.

“You’re suggesting I leave? Fine—if you wish to go, then go now!” Bai Zongnan said, half-smiling.

“Sir! I mean no offense—only that I hate to see you in peril,” Xun You explained anxiously.

“No more talk! I’ve given you two choices—if you choose the second, go at once!” Bai Zongnan said sternly.

“Sir...” Xun You tried to speak.

“Do you think I’m healed?” Bai Zongnan asked suddenly.

Xun You’s face changed.

“If you wish to go, I can’t stop you,” Bai Zongnan said coldly.

Xun You lowered his head in silence.

After a long pause, Xun You looked up resolutely, “Sir! I am willing to follow you!”

“Excellent!” Bai Zongnan nodded.

“When shall we leave, sir?” Xun You asked.

“No rush. Rest and recover—depart tonight,” Bai Zongnan said calmly.

“As you command!” Xun You nodded.