Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

The next morning, sunlight filtered through the carved window lattices, spilling into the mansion's meeting hall, adding a touch of gentleness to the solemn and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Sun Ce and Zhou Yu sat at the head tables, their expressions filled with anticipation and scrutiny.

Following the announcement, Lü Meng stepped steadily into the hall. Dressed in a plain robe, he stood tall and straight, his demeanor neither humble nor overbearing, his every gesture exuding composure and competence. Reaching the center of the hall, Lü Meng respectfully saluted Sun Ce and Zhou Yu, his voice loud and clear: "Greetings to General Sun and Commander-in-Chief Zhou."

Sun Ce nodded slightly, his eyes fixed on Lü Meng, and he spoke first: "Lü Ziming, I have long heard that you are proficient in military affairs. I have summoned you today to test you. Please do not let me down."

Lü Meng remained calm and composed, bowing his head and saying, "General, please ask me a question, and I will answer it with all my knowledge."

Sun Ce and Zhou Yu took turns peppering the room with questions, each more pointed and insightful than the last. Lü Meng's responses were fluent and clear, not only elaborating on his insights but also offering unique countermeasures based on practical examples. His answers, reflecting a profound understanding of military strategy and imbued with practical wisdom, resonated with both Sun Ce and Zhou Yu.

The examination lasted for a long time. Finally, Sun Ce smiled with satisfaction, exchanged a glance with Zhou Yu, and then said, "Ziming is indeed worthy of his reputation. His insight and strategy are both superior. Jiangdong is in great need of talents right now. If you are willing, I will appoint you as the Sima of a separate department, commanding an army. What do you think?"

Upon hearing this, Lü Meng's eyes flashed with surprise and gratitude, and he immediately knelt to express his gratitude: "I am deeply grateful for your kindness, General. I will serve you wholeheartedly and wholeheartedly!"

Sun Ce stood up, personally helped Lu Meng to his feet, patted him on the shoulder, and said earnestly: "Do your best, and don't let me down. If you achieve military success in the future, I will not let you down."

Lü Meng nodded heavily, his eyes filled with determination. Thus, Lü Meng officially became a member of Sun Ce's army, beginning his rise to prominence in Jiangdong.

After seeing off Lu Meng, the meeting room took a short break, but the atmosphere became increasingly solemn, and everyone was quietly waiting for Zhang Zhao's arrival.

Soon, Zhang Zhao entered the hall with steady steps. Dressed in a long robe, he exuded a refined demeanor, gently waving a feather fan in his hand. His expression was calm, without a trace of nervousness. Upon entering the hall, Zhang Zhao respectfully bowed to Sun Ce and Zhou Yu, his demeanor displaying the demeanor of a distinguished scholar.

Sun Ce looked at Zhang Zhao, his eyes full of anticipation, and said, "Zhang Zibu, I have long heard of your great name. We were unable to discuss this in detail at the banquet yesterday, but today I would like to ask you for your advice on many important matters, including people's livelihood and domestic affairs."

Zhang Zhao bowed slightly and said modestly, "General, your words are very sincere. I only know a little bit, so I will definitely tell you everything."

Zhou Yu was the first to raise a question: "Wu County has just been established, and there is much to be done. The people are living in hardship. In your opinion, how can we improve their livelihood?"

Zhang Zhao replied without hesitation, "The key to people's livelihood lies in agriculture and sericulture. We should first measure the land and distribute it reasonably, encouraging the people to reclaim wasteland and grow grain and cotton. At the same time, we should develop water conservancy projects to ensure irrigation and increase agricultural production. We should appoint agricultural officials to guide farming and reward farming and weaving. Only then will the people have no worries about food and clothing and can live and work in peace and contentment."

Sun Ce then asked, "How can we optimize government administration and improve governance efficiency?"

Zhang Zhao stroked his beard gently as he spoke, "Government affairs must be streamlined and responsibilities clarified. We must select talented individuals to staff government offices at all levels, ensuring that everyone is employed to the best of their abilities. We must establish a comprehensive assessment system with clear rewards and punishments to incentivize officials to work diligently. Furthermore, we must open up channels for public opinion, listen to the people's voices, and adjust policies in a timely manner."

The two then asked questions about taxation, education, public security, and other areas. Zhang Zhao answered them fluently, not only providing detailed strategies but also proposing practical implementation plans based on the actual conditions of Wu County. His answers, which combined high-level theoretical insights with meticulous practical suggestions, drew frequent nods of appreciation from Sun Ce and Zhou Yu.

After the question-and-answer session, Sun Ce couldn't help but exclaim, "Sir, you are truly a man of great talent. With your help, there's no need to worry about Wujun's prosperity and the accomplishment of our great cause!"

Zhou Yu also echoed, "Zhang Zibu's talent far exceeds our imagination. If we can work together to achieve great things, Jiangdong will be fortunate!"

Sun Ce's gaze locked with Zhang Zhao, eyes filled with inquiry and anticipation. He asked, "Sir, since you are such a gifted man, in your opinion, given the current situation of our army, what other good strategies can help me stabilize Jiangdong and achieve my great cause?"

Zhang Zhao's expression was calm. He gently waved a feather fan painted with an ink landscape in his hand and began to analyze slowly, "General, since you led your army to Jiangdong, you have overcome many obstacles along the way. Now, Kuaiji and Wujun are completely under your control, and the situation is gradually stabilizing. Wujun borders the Yangtze River to the north and fertile lands to the south. The terrain is flat and open, with a crisscrossing network of waterways, making transportation extremely convenient. It is rich in resources and its people are prosperous. It is truly the core hub of Jiangdong. Moving the government to Wujun is like placing a key piece in a chess game, allowing you to control the overall situation. From this center, government orders can be radiated swiftly in all directions. Whether it's deploying troops, collecting taxes, or managing people's livelihoods, it will achieve twice the result with half the effort, greatly consolidating your power in Jiangdong."

Sun Ce nodded slightly, a flicker of approval in his eyes, appreciating the suggestion. Zhang Zhao paused, then continued, "Beyond this, the general should also request an appointment from the court. This may seem like a reliance on the court, but it actually contains far-reaching strategic implications."

Upon hearing this, Sun Ce's expression suddenly changed, his brow furrowed, and a flicker of disgust and resistance flashed in his eyes. "Sir, you may not know this, but my father, Sun Jian, was a great hero, but he was unjustly killed by Liu Biao, a relative of the Han Dynasty. This corrupt and incompetent imperial court has long been a puppet of the powerful. I, Sun Ce, despise them with all my heart and desire nothing more from them. I built this foundation with my own strength, so why should I rely on the false reputation of the imperial court to accomplish anything?"

Zhang Zhao calmly put down his feather fan and stepped forward, his expression sincere and solemn. "General, you are a young hero with lofty ambitions. I deeply admire your passion and fervor. But please put aside your resentment for the moment and listen to me carefully. Currently, the world is in chaos, with warlords fighting for power and the situation is complex. Although the imperial court has declined, it still holds the throne of legitimacy and a symbol of legitimacy in the hearts of the people and many factions. If you can receive the imperial appointment, it will be like cloaking a veneer of legitimacy, making you the rightful ruler of Jiangdong. This will intimidate those forces with ulterior motives who wish to invade Jiangdong and will not dare to launch an attack rashly."

He paused, his gaze fixed on Sun Ce, observing his reaction, and continued, "Furthermore, this action will show the world that you are a loyal and righteous man who respects the Han Dynasty and upholds the orthodox order. In these troubled times, people are in panic, the common people yearn for peace, and talented people yearn for a wise ruler. By upholding the name of respecting the Han Dynasty, you will surely attract talented people from all over the world to join you, offering advice and fighting in your battles. At the same time, it will reassure the people of Jiangdong, who will all the more support your rule. As for your father's blood feud, it is a personal vendetta. But now, you are charged with the important task of achieving great things and protecting the country and the people. You should prioritize the greater good of the world. First, use the name of the court to consolidate your foundation. Once you are strong enough and fully developed, you can then plot revenge. Wouldn't that be more assured?"

After hearing this, Sun Ce fell into deep thought. He paced slowly across the spacious conference room, his footsteps echoing in the silence, each step akin to weighing the pros and cons of Zhang Zhao's words. After a long pause, he turned and looked at Zhang Zhao. The doubt and resistance in his eyes had vanished, replaced by a firm conviction and conviction. "Sir, every word you have said is insightful and thought-provoking. I have been too narrow-minded and short-sighted. I will follow your advice and request an appointment from the court. I hope you will continue to assist me in achieving great things in the future."

Zhou Yu's eyes flickered with approval when he heard Zhang Zhao's suggestion. Then, changing the subject, he looked at Zhang Zhao and asked, "In that case, a mission to the imperial court is a major undertaking. We need someone eloquent and insightful to take on this important task. Sir, you are knowledgeable and experienced. Do you have any suitable recommendations?"

Zhang Zhao nodded slightly, a confident smile on his face. He slowly said, "Since you two know my name, have you ever heard of another Zhang Hong in Jiangdong? People call him 'the two Zhangs of Jiangdong.' Zhang Hong and I are close friends, and his talent and strategy are every bit as great as mine. He has been well-read since childhood, and has a deep understanding of classics, history, and statecraft. He is particularly skilled in rhetoric, and when he speaks to others, he always speaks clearly and convincingly, citing classics."

At this point, Zhang Zhao's eyes lit up with admiration as he continued, "Zhang Hong is a calm and thoughtful man with a unique perspective on the world's affairs. He has traveled extensively and is familiar with local customs and practices, as well as the internal struggles and intrigues of the imperial court. This mission to the court requires us to demonstrate Jiangdong's strength and sincerity while also navigating the complex political landscape to maximize our interests. Zhang Hong is undoubtedly the best candidate. If he can serve, he will surely live up to his mission."

Sun Ce and Zhou Yu exchanged a glance, both eyes lit with surprise. Sun Ce clapped his hands and laughed heartily, "If such a talent truly exists, it would be a real blessing for Jiangdong! If you could recommend me, I, Sun Ce, would be more than happy to help."

Zhou Yu nodded in agreement. "I've long heard of the 'Two Zhangs of Jiangdong,' and after hearing your introduction today, I'm even more drawn to them. I hope you can quickly arrange for us to meet Mr. Zhang as soon as possible."

Zhang Zhao was pleased to see the two men readily agree. He bowed and said, "Don't worry, I'll write a letter inviting Zhang Hong to come. I believe that with his insight and ambition, he will not refuse the opportunity to serve Jiangdong."

Sun Ce looked at Zhang Zhao, his eyes filled with admiration and trust, and said solemnly, "Zhang Zibu, after speaking with you today, I deeply feel that you have extraordinary strategy and insight. I, Sun Ce, will appoint you as Chief Secretary, in charge of military and political affairs. I hope you can help me achieve my great cause. After the imperial court appoints you, I will definitely promote you and entrust you with even greater responsibilities."

Zhang Zhao quickly knelt down to express his gratitude: "Thank you for your kindness, General. I will do my best to live up to your trust." After saying that, he slowly stood up and retreated respectfully.

Watching Zhang Zhao's departing back, Sun Ce turned to look at Zhou Yu and said with emotion, "Zhang Zhao, Zhang Zibu, truly lives up to his reputation. The strategies he presented today are all interconnected, all with the greater good of Jiangdong at heart. His dedication is evident."

Zhou Yu nodded slightly, stroking his beard as he agreed, "Your Majesty, you are absolutely right. From his perspectives on livelihoods and domestic affairs to his planning for the mission to the imperial court, every aspect demonstrates his immense talent. Furthermore, I've observed his sincerity and honesty in his words and actions, demonstrating genuine integrity. He will undoubtedly become a capable and capable aide to you in the future."

Sun Ce narrowed his eyes slightly, a determined glint in them, as if he could already see Jiangdong growing stronger with the assistance of Zhang Zhao and others. "With the help of Gongjin and Zibu, we can expect to dominate Jiangdong. Next, we will wait patiently for Zhang Hong's arrival to create a new era for Jiangdong together!"