Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

Zhou Yu looked solemn, frowning slightly. His gaze lingered on Sun Ce's face for a moment, and he slowly spoke: "Bofu, there is one thing we must treat with caution, and that is to properly settle the Shanyue people in Wujun. Think about it, brother is now the son-in-law of Shanyue, and the relationship is intricate and closely connected. If we fail to settle the Shanyue people well, brother will be caught in the middle and be in a dilemma." Zhou Yu's words were sincere, and every word carried unquestionable weight. He looked straight at Sun Ce, his eyes full of consideration for the overall situation.

After hearing this, Sun Ce's expression instantly became serious. He straightened his back subconsciously, then nodded solemnly, his tone firm and forceful: "Gongjin is absolutely right! Brother has run around for us and handled many affairs. We will always remember this kindness. The resettlement of Shanyue is of great importance. It is not only to consolidate our power in Wujun, but also to prevent brother from falling into a dilemma. I will definitely take this matter to heart, go all out, and never let brother down!" After speaking, Sun Ce clenched his fists tightly, as if making a solemn promise to Zhou Yu and himself.

Night fell quietly, and the lights came on, ablaze throughout the prefecture. The grand banquet meticulously prepared by Sun Ce was already set, table after table filled with fine wine and delicious food. The aroma of wine filled the air, and joyful laughter echoed throughout the courtyard.

Everyone took their seats, clinking glasses and passing them around, the atmosphere was incredibly lively. Ma Chao, taking advantage of his drunken streak, approached Sun Ce again, his expression concerned and serious. Although he was a bit tipsy, the seriousness in his eyes remained undiminished. "Bofu, the aristocratic families in Wu County are deeply intertwined and intertwined. We must not rush into dealing with them. They are all cunning and resourceful, so don't be fooled by their superficial deference. These families have been entrenched here for a long time, and their power is complex. A thorough solution will take time and effort, and we will surely be able to devise a foolproof plan in the future. But for now, we must proceed with caution and proceed step by step." Ma Chao spoke, gently patting Sun Ce's shoulder, his words filled with worry and caution about the future.

Sun Ce listened quietly, nodding occasionally, a lingering smile plastered on his face, as if to reassure Ma Chao. Truth be told, Sun Ce's gratitude to Ma Chao flowed like a mighty river, difficult to express. He recalled how Ma Chao had unhesitatingly offered his assistance, bringing troops and horses to his aid, helping him overcome one difficulty after another. And now, Ma Chao, unattached to power, had surrendered the Wu Commandery he had painstakingly pacified. How could he not be moved by such sincerity and selflessness?

Sun Ce picked up the wine glass, stood up, and said with a slightly trembling voice, full of affection: "Brother, I, Sun Ce, will never forget your friendship to me. From helping me when I was in desperate situation to being so generous now, I... I really don't know how to repay you." As he spoke, Sun Ce's eyes were slightly red and he was a little excited.

Seeing this, Ma Chao also hurriedly stood up, held Sun Ce's arm with both hands, and said sincerely: "Brother, why do we have to say such polite words to each other. We are brothers who are as close as brothers. As long as we can realize our ambitions and seek welfare for the people of the world, what does all this matter? A real man should take the world as his own responsibility. How can mere power hold us back?" Ma Chao's voice was steady and powerful, and every word he said was resounding, revealing heroism and magnanimity.

Upon hearing this, everyone cheered and drank heartily. For a moment, the banquet was filled with the clinking of glasses and a lively atmosphere. Everyone was immersed in this joyful atmosphere, drinking heartily and sharing their friendship and ambitions. That night, the party lasted until late, and everyone was immersed in it, some talked and some sang, and finally, slightly tipsy, they supported each other and left.

The next morning, still bright and early, the faint morning light softly cast a golden hue over the walls of Yangxian County. Zhou Yu and Sun Ce arrived early outside Yangxian County, eagerly awaiting Ma Chao's arrival.

Meanwhile, inside the tent, Ma Dai was also busy packing his belongings. He was eager to leave with his brother, Ma Chao, his eyes filled with determination and eagerness. Ma Chao walked into the tent and saw Ma Dai's actions. He understood what he was doing, and with a gentle yet unquestionable determination, he slowly said, "Bo Zhan, I know you want to go with me."

Ma Dai stopped what he was doing and looked up at Ma Chao, his eyes filled with longing. "Brother, I'm willing to follow you on your expeditions, serving you at your side. It would be a joy for us two brothers to fight side by side."

Ma Chao stepped forward, gently patted Ma Dai's shoulder, and spoke earnestly, "Bofu's foundation is not yet stable. The situation in Wu and Kuaiji counties is complex and full of uncertainties. You staying behind to lead the cavalry will be of great significance. The upcoming battle in Yangzhou will surely be difficult. These cavalry can be a sharp weapon in the hands of Sun Ce and his men, turning the tide of battle at a critical moment. You staying for the time being to lend a hand to them is also for the benefit of our common cause."

After hearing this, Ma Dai frowned slightly, a hint of disappointment flashed in his eyes, but he soon understood his brother's deep meaning. Although he was reluctant, he nodded solemnly: "Brother, you are right. I understand. I will do my best here and live up to your trust."

Soon, Ma Chao, riding his horse, Aurora, slowly arrived outside the city walls of Yangxian County. Behind him were the guards Pan Feng and Wu Anguo, and further back were Gan Ning and Lu Su, also on horseback, along with his personal guards, neatly arranged and waiting to depart. Seeing Zhou Yu and Sun Ce, Ma Chao quickly dismounted and trotted forward to meet them.

Sun Ce took the lead and held Ma Chao's hand tightly, with a hint of sob in his voice: "Brother, the journey is long, you must take care of yourself." As he spoke, his eyes were slightly red, and his reluctance was beyond words.

Zhou Yu also stepped forward, bowed, and said, "Brother, since we parted outside Yangxian County, I don't know when we will meet again. In Wu and Kuaiji counties, we will do our utmost to stabilize the situation. When the time is right, we will immediately mobilize our forces to join you and lift the siege of Yangzhou."

Ma Chao shook Sun Ce's hand firmly, then patted Zhou Yu's shoulder. His gaze was sharp as he spoke passionately, "Brother! Don't let your sentimental attitude take over! The world is still unsettled, and the people are still in turmoil. Now is the time for you and me to make great plans. I'll leave the land of Wuhui to you, while I rush to Yangzhou. We will attack separately and together. When we defeat the enemy, the country will be united, and the people will live and work in peace. Then we can drink and talk about the wars we've fought along the way. Wouldn't that be joyful?"

After the three of them gave a few more instructions, Ma Chao mounted his horse and saluted them in farewell. With a single command, the county's foreign troops began their movement, their warships slowly making their way to the riverbank, ready to set sail.

Zhou Yu and Sun Ce stood outside the city gates, watching Ma Chao's troops retreat until they were out of sight. Only then did they return to the city to prepare for the next battle. Ma Dai, watching his brother's departure, clenched his fists, his heart filled with determination. He was determined to show his prowess on this land, help Sun Ce consolidate his power, and wait for the day when he could fight alongside his brother again.

Ma Chao had already sent a message to Gan Ning, ordering his Jinfan Army to march by water to Wu County, where they would be ready for reinforcements by the river. Meanwhile, Ma Chao and his personal guards set out overland towards Wu County, planning to first meet with Shamoke in the Shanyue region, then pick up their families and return to Runan County along the river.

It was a crisp autumn day, the sun gently casting its rays across the landscape. Ma Chao, atop his horse, Aurora, stood tall and proud, his gaze fixed firmly on the horizon. Beside him, Gan Ning, dressed in a light, athletic outfit, a sharp dagger at his waist, his eyes radiating competence and determination. They walked side by side, followed by neat, orderly rows of spirited guards. The clatter of horses' hooves echoed across the silent official road.

Although Shamoke had already returned to Shanyue, he had taken the utmost care, having already left a support team in Wuxian. Because of this, this journey was far less arduous and dangerous than their first. Along the way, the sky was high and the clouds were light, the road smooth, and the occasional sounds of chickens and dogs barking from the villages they passed by added a touch of homely charm to the otherwise dull journey.

As they journeyed, Ma Chao's thoughts drifted to his wife, Shan Yue. She was gentle, virtuous, charming, and captivating, and her heart burned with affection. Remembering his wife's gentle smile and caring words, the corners of Ma Chao's mouth curled up unconsciously, his eyes filled with tenderness and longing.

Gan Ning felt the same way. He felt a surge of warmth in his heart as he thought of his wife's lively eyes and hearty laughter. He usually fought bravely on the battlefield, but now, as he spoke of his wife, a rare touch of shyness and sweetness appeared on his face.

The team advanced slowly along the winding official road, the sun warm and the breeze gentle, bringing a relaxed and comfortable mood to everyone. Lu Su, riding a chestnut horse, moved leisurely, his gaze sweeping over Ma Chao and Gan Ning, each lost in thought. A mischievous smile graced his face, and he jokingly said, "You two are truly interesting. On this expedition, you didn't miss anything else, but you both found wives. Look at those faces filled with tenderness and affection; I can even guess what you're thinking!"

The words rang out, drawing sidelong glances from the surrounding guards and a chuckle. Gan Ning's eyes widened, his shyness replaced by a cheerful expression. Without hesitation, he retorted, "Zijing, don't just criticize us here! If you hadn't been so reserved, you could have secured your lifelong happiness this time. Don't think your thoughts will escape our notice. You might be even more concerned about us than we are!" Gan Ning gestured with his hands as he spoke, his words filled with directness and uninhibitedness.

Seeing the atmosphere growing increasingly heated, Ma Chao hurriedly came to Lu Su's rescue with a smile. He slightly tightened the reins and looked sideways at Lu Su, his eyes full of sincerity and respect: "Zi Jing, you have always been insightful and open-minded. You are truly a true gentleman. There is no need to bother with these jokes." The protective meaning in Ma Chao's words was self-evident.

Wu Anguo and Pan Feng refused to give up. They exchanged a glance, then came closer, understanding what he meant. Wu Anguo, a burly man with a full beard, grinned, laughing so hard he couldn't stop. "Zijing, don't be so serious! You're still teasing others so seriously. I think you're just a shrew. I don't know how envious you are!" Pan Feng echoed him, nodding his head like a rattle. "That's right, that's right. Don't pretend. We all know what's going on!" The two of them exchanged words, their tone of undisguised teasing making the surrounding soldiers laugh even more.

After hearing this, Lu Su pretended to shake his head helplessly, but a smile was on his face, and his eyes were full of closeness and tolerance towards everyone: "Okay, okay, you are all right, you have seen through my hypocrisy today!" Amidst the laughter and chatter, the atmosphere in the team became more harmonious, and the laughter kept echoing on the road, driving away the fatigue and monotony of the journey. Everyone headed towards Shanyue with full expectations.