Dong Cheng, as portrayed in the Romance, appeared as a loyal minister of the Han Dynasty.
In truth, however, he was no good man. He was the nephew of Dong Empress Dowager, Emperor Ling's mother, and also a former subordinate of Dong Zhuo.
During the time of Li Jue and Guo Si, he had not even been qualified to stand alongside the two of them.
But later, when Emperor Xian returned east, he gained merit for guarding him and rose through the ranks all the way.
Dong Cheng thus reaped the benefits. During the eastern return, he also betrothed his daughter to Liu Xie as an honored consort.
Later, he played at political intrigue. To check Han Xian, he secretly summoned Cao Cao to rescue the throne.
In his view, once Cao Cao came to the Emperor's aid, Luoyang would fall under his control, and Cao Cao's power could gradually be stripped away.
Unexpectedly, the move backfired. The moment Cao Cao entered Luoyang, he followed Qin Tian and the others' advice and moved the capital to Xuchang.
Dong Cheng and the others did indeed hold high positions because of their achievements, but in essence, they were gradually being hollowed out.
Thus, Dong Cheng had always harbored deep resentment toward Cao Cao. Unfortunately, he lacked any strength to restrain Old Cao.
Watching Cao Cao command the court and summon wind and rain, Dong Cheng could only bury his rebellious heart deep within.
Yet before court had even begun one day, the Chamberlain of the Palace summoned him to the palace for an audience.
When he saw Liu Xie and completed the formalities, Liu Xie smiled and said:
"Last night, I spoke with the Empress about the hardships at the Ba River. Remembering Imperial Uncle's great merit, I have specially summoned you