Familiarity Breeds Contempt for Warfare

Xu Chu was a man of loyalty and integrity who kept a low profile. He did not fraternize with the clans or the civil and military officials, which earned him the deep favor of Cao Cao.

However, his acquaintance with the new sovereign, Cao Pi, was still shallow. He did not hold the responsibility of independent guard duty, but instead alternated shifts with the Leopard Camp of the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry.

With others sharing the workload, Xu Chu found himself with more leisure time and began returning home more frequently.

Xu Chu's reputation as a "lone minister" preceded him; his residence remained desolate, with no visitors throughout the year.

The arrival of Xiahou Chong broke the tranquility of the Xu Residence.

Always one to act with ease and detachment, Xu Chu dismissed his servants and closed the door to the Fang Mansion.

Sensing that no one remained outside, Xu Chu cupped his hands in a salute: "Two months ago, I met with the General Who Shakes Might in Luoyang. Now, we are separated by the veil of death. It is truly heartbreaking to contemplate. Young Master Ziman, please accept my condolences."

Xiahou Chong removed his hood and returned the salute: "Death is the inevitable end for all men. My late father's old illness flared up, and he has followed the late King. This is the decree of Heaven."

"Young Master Ziman has come to Ye City to report the funeral, but I wonder, what urgent matter brings you here in the dead of night?" Xu Chu was not one for small talk and quickly cut to the chase.

"Zilin has a bond of brotherhood with the King. Does General Xu know why it is I who came to Ye City?" Xiahou Chong countered with a question.

Xu Chu vaguely