The turmoil in the West Blue had temporarily subsided under the deterrence of Hua Country's absolute military might, but a deeper contest quietly began as an unparalleled strategist emerged from seclusion.
Zhao Yun had successfully persuaded Zhuge Liang and brought him back from Water-Mirror Manor. This journey had not only brought Hua Country a talent capable of ordering heaven and earth, but would also completely transform the kingdom's future strategic landscape.
Inside and outside Chang'an City, beneath the seemingly peaceful routines of daily life, a new force was being injected into this ever-expanding war machine, heralding an even more momentous future.
Chang'an City, Zichen Hall. Amid the solemn atmosphere lingered a gravity and anticipation unlike those of ordinary days. Chen Yu sat upright on the dragon throne, his gaze as deep as the starry sky. Arceus's primordial power over creation and order naturally lent him an awe-inspiring majesty even as he sat motionless.
Below the throne, Chancellor Liu Bei's gentle expression held a measure of scrutiny. Minister of the Secretariat Xun Yu's gaze was as still as a deep pool. Army Adviser Sacrificer Guo Jia gently waved his feather fan, his eyes holding Uxie-like insight and amusement. Guan Yu narrowed his phoenix eyes slightly, imposing without anger. Zhang Fei's bristling beard stood out like spear points, his fighting spirit held in check. Gan Ning, Huang Zhong, and the other generals stood solemnly, all eyes fixed on the newly arrived scholar in white at the center of the hall.
Zhuge Liang wore white robes and a silk headcloth, his steps unhurried. Facing the gazes of a hall filled with the finest heroes of the age, he remained composed, his eyes clear. He bowed and saluted, his voice clear and calm. "Zhuge Liang, a commoner, pays his respects to the King of