Chapter 26: Taishi

After paying his respects to Ding Yuan, Lu Bu's life settled into a routine once again. He spent his days teasing his daughter and enjoying family time with the Yan family. Occasional small banquets with his generals added a touch of festivity. As time went on, Lu Bu's experiences began to reshape his character subtly. He became less anxious than before, focusing more on building relationships with people and understanding their perspectives.

Nevertheless, his inherent arrogance persisted. Lu Bu still held his strong opinions about those he disliked, refusing to feign pleasantries to win their favor. While he had become less brash, his presence emanated a certain majesty that commanded respect from those around him. Even the Yan family, who saw him daily, couldn't help but unconsciously lower their voices in his presence.

"General, there's a messenger from the Prime Minister's residence. They're requesting your presence to discuss matters," the household steward informed Lu Bu while he was playing with his daughter in the garden, accompanied by his wife.

"I'll go there later," Lu Bu nodded, dismissing the messenger.

"Is husband going out again?" Yan shi asked with concern.

"With the relocation almost complete, Heluo has become an empty city. But before we leave, there's likely to be a confrontation with the Guandong warlords," Lu Bu explained. "However, I'm not sure what this summons is about."

Their daughter clung to Lu Bu's leg, not wanting him to leave. Eventually, Yan shi managed to coax her away, and she shot Lu Bu a longing gaze as he prepared to depart.

"My dear, I'll be back soon, my little princess," Lu Bu reassured, patting his daughter's head before standing up to leave. Changing into his armor with the assistance of two guards, he set off for the prime minister's residence.

Upon arriving at the prime minister's residence, Lu Bu found most of the generals already gathered. Li Jue, Guo Si, and Hu Zhen wore unfriendly expressions upon his arrival, refraining from even a greeting. Niu Fu, however, smiled warmly and remarked, "Fengxian, your victory over Sun Jian at Yangren was truly impressive. After this battle, you'll be renowned throughout the land."

"Famous, thanks to an ambush?" Hu Zhen scoffed.

"It's only natural. If General Hu hadn't distracted Sun Jian by making a hasty retreat from Yangren Crossing, it wouldn't have been so easy for me to launch a direct attack and kill Sun Jian," Lu Bu responded, asserting his point.

"Lu Bu, you can spare us the theatrics. I only retreated temporarily because of an oversight," Hu Zhen retorted angrily, feeling humiliated by Lu Bu's public criticism.

"Why? Sun Jian can use tactics, but I can't?" Lu Bu challenged, his gaze piercing.

"This squabbling achieves nothing. We're on the same side," Niu Fu intervened, trying to defuse the tension between them.

Li Jue was tempted to add a sarcastic comment, as Lu Bu's sudden elevation to Marquis of Duting rankled him. Yet, given the current circumstances, he suppressed his urge. Having Lu Bu present made it unwise to provoke a confrontation. Moreover, Li Jue privately lamented that he hadn't received a similar title despite being a seasoned general.

Hu Zhen pulled Li Jue aside, whispering soothing words to calm him down. The situation was already precarious, and he wanted to avoid further conflict. Engaging in physical altercations in such a setting would reflect poorly on both of them.

Hu Zhen, a simpleton, had been manipulated like a pawn by Li Jue.

Observing quietly, Lu Bu saw through the situation. He had evolved significantly since his past self, possessing a newfound ability to discern the subtleties and motives of those around him. The greatest benefit he gained from the simulation world wasn't merely the rewards after each experience, but the accumulation of wisdom over time. He had grown astute, a quality that would serve him well in this world.

He knew he needed to be wary of potential traitors within his ranks, particularly those who might stab him in the back later on.

"Xiangguo is here," the door announced, and Dong Zhuo, a towering figure with a commanding presence, entered the room. His arrival seemed to dim the light, and trailing behind him was Li Ru, who wore a smile that hinted at hidden schemes.

"Everyone is present," Dong Zhuo declared, directing his words to the door. "Let them in."

As the crowd wondered, a group of individuals entered the room. Among them, Lu Bu recognized Guang Luxun Xuanfan, but his memories of him were hazy. He recalled that Xuanfan had accompanied the emperor to Chang'an during the capital's relocation the previous year. His appearance now likely signaled a significant event.

"Chen Xuan Fan, on His Majesty's command, has been dispatched to deliver an edict. He respectfully asks Prime Minister Dong to receive the edict," Xuan Fan announced loudly as he entered the hall.

Dong Zhuo stepped forward with solemnity.

"Since last year, during the Eastern Rebellion crisis, turmoil spread throughout the nation. Fortunately, the illustrious Dong Zhuo rose to the occasion, quelling rebellions on all fronts and rendering great service to the court. Presently, you are tasked with suppressing the feudal vassals. Henceforth, Dong Zhuo is appointed as Taishi, leading the dynasty to restore order and pacify the rival warlords as swiftly as possible."

"I, Dong Zhuo, accept the imperial edict!" Dong Zhuo proclaimed, bowing with utmost respect as he received the edict with both hands.

The newly established position of Taishi didn't previously exist, but Dong Zhuo's elevation wasn't merely a change in title. This shift signified more than a superficial modification; it represented an elevation in authority and autonomy, bolstered by imperial backing.

Dong Zhuo's newly acquired title of Taishi shouldn't be underestimated. In the eyes of the general populace, he holds significant authority. With this elevated status, it would be unreasonable for the rival warlords to openly attack him, at least not without some justification. Moreover, Dong Zhuo's increased autonomy means he can handle many matters independently, without having to seek resolution from the imperial court.

"Dismissed," Dong Zhuo gestured to Xuan Fan after receiving the edict.

The name Guang Luxun carried weight in the imperial court. He had once wielded real military power in Luoyang, but in this moment, he appeared powerless before Dong Zhuo.

"Congratulations, Taishi!" After Xuan Fan departed, the assembled generals bowed to Dong Zhuo.

"No need for excessive courtesy, generals," Dong Zhuo replied, taking a seat and inviting the others to do the same. "I gathered you all here today not only to discuss this matter but also another issue."

"We await your instructions, Grand Master," the generals said, bowing respectfully.

Dong Zhuo exchanged a glance with Li Ru, and Li Ru began to speak, addressing the group, "Our Emperor is now safe in Chang'an. The region of Heluo has turned into a desolate land. It's time for us to return to Guanzhong. The last batch of people sent to Chang'an included your family members."

Having received prior knowledge of this development, the generals remained composed.

Li Ru paused before continuing, "However, if we withdraw without any action, it will appear as if our army is retreating due to pressure from the Guandong warlords. After General Lu's decisive victory over Sun Jian, our army's strength was greatly enhanced. I propose that we engage in a few more battles with the Guandong warlords before our retreat. This way, we can demonstrate our might and ensure that no one can accuse our army of being intimidated by the Guandong warlords. What do you think?"

The generals exchanged glances, pondering Li Ru's proposal. Dong Zhuo's authority, bolstered by his new title, could potentially provide them with a stronger position in upcoming negotiations. If they showcased their strength through successful battles before withdrawing, it would solidify their reputation and protect them from any accusations of weakness. After a moment of contemplation, Niu Fu, as the highest-ranking military officer present, spoke up, "This plan has merit. Demonstrating our strength before retreating will send a clear message and establish our authority in the eyes of the Guandong warlords."

"I agree," Lu Bu chimed in. "Engaging in a few more battles will not only bolster our image but also allow us to secure a stronger position during negotiations."

The other generals nodded in agreement. Dong Zhuo observed their reactions and then nodded in approval. "Very well, it's settled then. We shall engage in a series of battles to assert our dominance before making our strategic retreat. Li Ru, organize the necessary preparations."

Li Ru acknowledged and made note of the directive. With the decision made, the generals began discussing the logistics and strategies for their upcoming confrontations with the Guandong warlords. The room buzzed with anticipation as they plotted their next moves on the chessboard of power.