Dong Zhao, courtesy name Gongren, was a native of Dingtao in Jiyin and one of Cao Cao's most important ministers.
He was also a key figure who had pushed Cao Cao down the path of hegemony.
Originally a military adviser under Yuan Shao, he had won many military merits. But because Yuan Shao heeded slanderous words, he left Yuan Shao's service.
After entering Old Cao's ranks, he became one of the main forces behind Old Cao's holding the Emperor hostage.
In the original history, Dong Zhao had repeatedly urged Cao Cao to pursue the path of kingly hegemony, and he had planned and promoted Cao Cao's elevation to Duke of a State.
After Old Cao forced Xun Yu to death, Dong Zhao again plotted to have Cao Cao proclaim himself king. Though he was not one of Cao Cao's five great strategists, he was truly Old Cao's trusted confidant.
Now, seeing that Xun Yu and Old Cao stood at odds, he took the initiative to step forward and firmly support Cao Cao.
As Dong Zhao made his stance known, another man rose and said:
"Now Liu Bei is causing trouble in the southeast. This is precisely the time for the Excellency of Works to move the capital!"
"The Excellency need only submit the memorial. We shall naturally second the motion!"
The man who voiced his support was named Lou Gui, an old friend of Cao Cao's.
At first, he had attached himself to Liu Biao. After later joining Cao Cao's ranks, he had been appointed a general.
Yet this man did not command troops. He merely remained at Old Cao's side, deliberating upon military and state affairs.
He and Dong Zhao shared one trait: both were quintessential men of Cao's faction.
They had little friendship with the Yingchuan scholars led