The winter had passed, and Anxi had transformed from a vulnerable outpost into a well-defended stronghold. For months, Liu Bei and his volunteer army stood against bandit raids and Yellow Turban remnants, their victories etching their names into the hearts of the people. The soldiers under Liu Bei''s command, though originally common men, had grown into a disciplined force through relentless training and unwavering loyalty.


    At a small gathering of officers near the barracks, Zhang Fei slammed his cup onto the table, grinning.


    “Hah! Those bastard bandits didn’t even last a full night against us this time. Remember how they ran when I cut down their so-called leader?”


    Guan Yu, calmly sipping his tea, smirked. “Yes, but it was Liu Bei’s strategy that forced them into that position. If not for the decoy units, you wouldn’t have had your glorious moment.”


    Liu Bei chuckled. “Glory means little. What matters is that Anxi is safe. But our work is not yet done.”


    Word of their achievements reached the Governor of Zhou County, who reported their deeds to the Han court. Shortly after, a messenger arrived, bearing an official decree.


    In the yamen, Liu Bei knelt before the imperial decree, surrounded by his comrades. The official’s voice echoed through the hall.


    “By the grace of His Majesty, the Emperor of Han, Liu Bei is hereby appointed as the Local Commander of Anxi, entrusted with the defense of the region and the well-being of its people.”


    Liu Bei accepted the title with humility. “I serve not for ranks or rewards, but for the people.”


    Though his words were genuine, not everyone in Anxi celebrated his rise.


    <hr>


    In a dimly lit chamber of the yamen, Liu Wen and Sun Yichen sat opposite each other, their expressions grim.


    “This cannot continue,” Liu Wen muttered, tapping his fingers on the table. “First, Zhao Ming gains influence, now Liu Bei is officially recognized? The people whisper of them like heroes.”


    Sun Yichen leaned forward. “We must act before they solidify their power. An imperial inspector would be the perfect tool. A corrupt one, preferably.”


    A messenger arrived moments later, confirming their request had been answered. A notorious inspector, known for his greed and indulgence, would soon arrive in Anxi.


    <hr>


    A week later, a grand carriage, decorated in gold and red, rolled into Anxi. The man who stepped out was draped in silk robes, his fingers adorned with heavy rings.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    Inspector Zhao Liang smiled as he observed the town. “Humble, yet filled with potential… for profit.”


    Liu Wen and Sun Yichen welcomed him, bowing respectfully. “We are honored by your presence, Inspector. We have… certain matters that require your expertise.”


    As they dined in the Jade Pavilion, Zhao Liang listened to their complaints while indulging in fine wine and the company of beautiful courtesans.


    “So, you want me to remove Zhao Ming and pressure Liu Bei?” Zhao Liang chuckled. “That will cost you. But don’t worry, I always deliver.”


    <hr>


    The next morning, Liu Bei was summoned to meet Inspector Zhao Liang.


    The inspector reclined on a silk cushion, sipping wine as Liu Bei entered. “Ah, the famous Liu Bei. The Emperor has seen fit to grant you a title, but titles come with responsibilities. And… obligations.”


    Liu Bei frowned. “I serve the people, not gold.”


    Zhao Liang’s expression darkened. “A man who does not understand the value of gifts does not understand how the world works. Perhaps your appointment was a mistake.”


    Liu Bei left the yamen, troubled. That night, he shared his concerns with Guan Yu and Zhang Fei over a dimly lit table.


    Zhang Fei clenched his fists. “That bastard wants a bribe? Let me knock some sense into him!”


    Guan Yu, ever the tactician, shook his head. “Violence will only make matters worse. We need a plan.”


    Liu Bei sighed. “I refuse to bend to corruption. But if we do nothing, this inspector will make life difficult for us.”


    Guan Yu tapped the table. “Zhao Ming has dealt with men like this before. He knows Qiao Xian and Yang Tianlei—perhaps they can help.”


    <hr>


    At the Qiao residence, Zhao Ming and Yang Tianlei sat in a courtyard, engaged in a game of Go. As Liu Bei and his brothers arrived, Qiao Xian set down his book with a knowing smile.


    After hearing Liu Bei’s concerns, Yang Tianlei leaned back. “Sun Yichen’s handiwork, no doubt. But the inspector himself is a threat.”


    Zhao Ming exhaled slowly. “Tomorrow will not be pleasant. They will move against me first.”


    Yang Tianlei nodded. “Be prepared. And Zhao Ming—watch out. The inspector will not stop at bribery; he will fabricate charges.”


    <hr>


    That evening, Sun Yichen hosted the inspector at Jade Pavilion once more. Amidst laughter and wine, he presented falsified documents, framing Zhao Ming for supply mismanagement.


    Inspector Zhao Liang smirked. “Ah, such incompetence must be dealt with severely.”


    Liu Wen laughed. “Then we leave it in your capable hands.”


    The courtesans danced, pouring wine and whispering sweet words into the inspector’s ears. His laughter grew louder, his greed insatiable.


    By the end of the night, Zhao Liang leaned back, satisfied. “Tomorrow, Zhao Ming falls. And with him, Liu Bei’s rise will be cut short.”


    <hr>


    The next morning, Zhao Ming was summoned to the yamen. The hall was packed with officials and soldiers as Inspector Zhao Liang read out the charges.


    “Zhao Ming, you stand accused of corruption and mismanagement.”


    Bribed officials presented forged documents, but Zhao Ming remained firm. “These accusations are false. The soldiers and people can testify—”


    Zhao Liang interrupted, his voice cold. “There will be no need for further investigation. You are sentenced to public flogging and removed from duty.”


    Liu Bei stepped forward. “This is injustice! At least allow a fair trial!”


    Zhao Liang sneered. “Justice? You dare lecture me on justice? You, who refuse to respect the authority of the empire?”


    Guards seized Zhao Ming as Liu Bei watched helplessly. Yang Tianlei clenched his fists, eyes burning with rage, while Qiao Xian remained eerily calm, as if already formulating his next move.


    Zhao Ming being dragged outside, his fate uncertain.