Not only was Cao Ang startled by being addressed with a different generation rank by his father, but even Qiao Yan almost couldn’t maintain her composure because of this one sentence.

Cao Cao… truly lived up to his reputation!

This wasn’t an impulsive move; even the reason he mentioned made a lot of sense.

If the ranking and inheritance were determined by nobility titles, then the Qiao family of the Han Dynasty was indeed led by Qiao Yan.

Of course, it wasn’t just because of the title but also because her words could reach the ears of those in power.

For example, last year when Qiao Mao, a member of the Qiao family, was appointed as the governor of Dongjun, he should have, by seniority, called Qiao Yan his niece.

In the letters sent to Le Ping, there was quite a bit of flattery and wooing.

So when Cao Cao said that Qiao Yan was now the bearer of her family’s hopes and should only observe the etiquette of a junior when dealing with the elders among the renowned scholars, it made sense not to rashly call anyone uncle or niece — his point was valid.

However, this way…

Cao Ang, who was actually a year and a half older than Qiao Yan, suddenly became a junior in terms of seniority.

Qiao Yan said, “Lord — Mengde’s words indeed make Zixiu gain an elder. I left in a hurry and didn’t bring any gifts for the first meeting.”

“What’s the harm in that? You can make up for it next time,” replied Cao Cao.

If it were anyone else here, they might have said something like, “Yue Shu(Qiao Yan’s nickname) is still young, so there’s no need for a meeting gift.” But Cao Cao was no ordinary person!

He could boldly state that they should treat each other as equals and just as boldly say that it’s no problem if Qiao Yan didn’t bring a gift because she left in a hurry, she could make up for it next time.

Cao Ang, evidently not having inherited Cao Cao’s magnanimous style, awkwardly clasped his hands towards Qiao Yan and addressed her as “Lord Qiao.”

The Cao Ang didn’t have the guts to call out Qiao Yan an elder in public.

Probably out of the same straightforwardness, Qiao Yan decided that when she makes up for the missed gift, she’d expect him to do the same.

Since Cao Cao was here, Qiao Yan temporarily gave up her plan to go to Lingtai.

Although she wanted to meet Ma Lun and inquire about the mechanical genius Ma Jun, for now, it was better to focus on the current matter of selecting the General of the North.

With Cao Cao being so frank, bringing up the matter of seniority openly, Qiao Yan also didn’t hold back and asked about it directly.

( Translator Note : It’s not that Important, Qiao Xuan, Qiao Yan’s Grandfather was the Previous Holder of ‘ General of the Northern Territories/ General of the North’ when he was in his Prime years )

Discussing such matters on the street was inconvenient, so they had moved to the residence in Yanshi.

“I won’t hide it from you, Yue Shu. Upon hearing in your letter last month about your attack on Xituo and the intimidation of the Southern Xiongnu, I felt a grand and heroic sentiment arise within me.

This is indeed the act of a hero, even if it temporarily bears the name of recklessness, what does it matter if it follows in the footsteps of General Huo’s military deeds?”

“Indeed, that’s the spirit! From my perspective, the sons of Han should be like this!” exclaimed Cao Cao.

Cao Cao had long known that Qiao Yan could come up with brilliant strategies, as demonstrated in the Battle of Changshe with her internal and external coordination.

He also knew she had the ability to govern effectively, as seen in her administration of Le Ping.

However, upon hearing that Qiao Yan had directly attacked the Xiongnu beyond the borders, he realized he had still underestimated her.

Or rather, what he knew before was only a glimpse of her true capabilities.

Cao Ang, standing nearby, added, “Father was elated when he heard about this. He said it was immensely gratifying and not something just anyone could accomplish.”

Cao Cao, while retired at home, had taken the opportunity to educate his son, so Cao Ang had clearly observed his father’s reaction upon receiving the letter.

Despite Cao Cao’s impressive achievements in Jinan, he often mentioned that if he could become the General of the East for the Han dynasty, he would do his utmost to pacify the chaos in Liangzhou.

Currently, Liangzhou was still in turmoil, but Qiao Yan had already led troops north to Yinshan and counterattacked the Xiongnu at Shouxiang City, aligning perfectly with his aspirations.

“In that case, Mengde( Cao Cao’s nickname ), you should have much to discuss with Master Lu,” Qiao Yan said with a smile.

Lu Zhi had previously mentioned that Qiao Yan’s actions were immensely gratifying.

Cao Cao was aware of Lu Zhi’s current situation, holding the title of Minister of Works without real power.

Given the present circumstances, Cao Cao could do little, even unable to stop his elderly father from wanting to buy a high-ranking position for the thrill.

Moreover, he couldn’t easily influence the court to help Lu Zhi out of his predicament.

So, in a casual manner, he asked, “I heard that Yue Shu is studying the Classic of Documents with Master Lu. How far have you progressed?”

Given the correspondence and Cao Cao’s travel time to Luoyang, Qiao Yan had to submit her study reports and couldn’t just fake them.

She had indeed progressed in her studies.

“Yesterday, I studied the ‘Alcohol Proclamation’ from the Book of Zhou,” Qiao Yan replied.

As soon as she spoke, Cao Cao coughed.

Since they were hosting at the residence and not entertaining children like Fu Shou, wine and meat were abundant.

But now that Qiao Yan mentioned studying the Classic of Documents, Cao Cao, who had also studied it, recalled that the ‘Alcohol Proclamation’ in the Book of Zhou stated that one should not drink except during sacrifices.

Those who drank in groups were to be sent to Haojing and executed as a warning.

Though this rule wasn’t currently enforced, Cao Cao couldn’t help but feel a chill down his neck.

Yet, he quickly replied confidently, “The ‘Alcohol Proclamation’? It states one should not indulge in wine. I am merely expressing my feelings and ambitions through drinking, which is no calamity.”

Qiao Yan shook her head, “Mengde, you misunderstand. Master Lu had me study the ‘Alcohol Proclamation’ not for the line about execution, but for the line that says, ‘One should take the people as a mirror, not just water.'”

This concept is akin to Emperor Taizong of Tang’s saying, “Taking people as a mirror can help one understand right from wrong.”

“Indeed, these words are from the Book of Zhou and have been passed down by our ancestors.

What one sees in water is only a reflection, but what one sees among the people is the true state of society.

Lu Zhi particularly favored these two lines from the ‘Alcohol Proclamation’ and made it a key part of his teachings to me,” Qiao Yan explained.

Cao Cao, embodying the essence of ‘if I’m not embarrassed, then it’s others who are,’ replied calmly,

“That is indeed a profound statement. However, I’m a simple man and only noticed the word ‘alcohol.’ Let’s not dwell on this and return to the matter of the General of the North.”

Cao Cao decided to learn more about his potential rivals for the position, so he asked, “Based on what you’ve seen in the capital, Yue Shu, who do you think is fit for this position?”

Qiao Yan had no intention of revealing that Emperor Liu Hong was considering placing Cao Cao among the Eight Division of the Western Garden.

Instead, she raised her cup and replied, “I previously recommended General Huangfu and Sun Wentai to His Majesty, but he mentioned that they had other assignments. As for you, Mengde—”

“The position of Gentleman Consultant might not appeal to you, but there are times when one must compete. For this position of General of the North, I believe you are eager to compete. I need not say more.”

Cao Cao smiled upon hearing this and said, “Your words resonate with me, Yueshu. At this time, border generals may lack many things, but they cannot be without courage. Deciding the General of the North through competition is an excellent idea.

If someone emerges as the best, they will surely stand tall against the Xiongnu and Xianbei, holding their own.”

( Xiongnu and Xianbei are foreign tribes )

Cao Cao was evidently unaware of Liu Hong’s plans.

At this moment, his words reflected his genuine loyalty to the Han dynasty, which Qiao Yan found truly heartfelt.

Perhaps emboldened by the alcohol, he continued, “However, if I do win this selection, we will be neighbors. Bingzhou is not far from Leping. It has gatherings of talented individuals, including Cai Bojie and Cui Weikao, and you have established an academy in Le Ping. I could send my son Cao Ang to study there and have you, as an elder, look after him.”

This time, it was Qiao Yan who nearly choked on her drink.

She thought that Cao Cao might not only have a lot to discuss with Lu Zhi, but also with Guo Yun.

However, his ideas were destined to remain just that—ideas.

If Qiao Yan could truly achieve her goal as she anticipated, then no one else would be able to set foot in Bingzhou.

Even if she failed this time, Liu Hong would never appoint Cao Cao as the General of the North at this moment, to prevent her, the unconventional Marquis of Le Ping, from joining forces with an equally ambitious ally and causing uncontrollable outcomes.

Thus, Qiao Yan responded without any concerns, “If that happens, we can have Zixiu and Yancai study literature and martial arts together. I will ensure they are well taken care of.”

“Of course.”

“Yancai?” Upon hearing the name suddenly, Cao Cao was momentarily stunned.

But when he realized who Qiao Yan was referring to, he understood—it was the son of an old friend!

Qiao Yan had not mentioned in her letters that Fu Gan had also arrived in Le Ping.

Bringing it up now, Cao Cao finally let go of his worry about Fu Gan’s whereabouts.

However, mentioning Fu Gan inevitably made him think of Fu Xie, who died in battle.

Thinking of this, he couldn’t help but sigh deeply.

“Damn those rebels for causing chaos, incompetent officials for failing the state, and loyal men for dying for their country.”

The rebels referred to Ma Teng and Han Sui, the incompetent official was Geng Bi, the governor of Liangzhou who rashly led his troops into battle, and the loyal man was Fu Xie.

Whether it was because Cao Cao had fought alongside Fu Xie or because he saw in Fu Xie’s fate a reflection of his own potential future as a westward-conquering general, he suddenly said to Qiao Yan, “If one day I meet the same fate as Fu Xie, I will have Cao Ang come to you just like Yancai.”

“Why speak of such matters, Mengde?” Qiao Yan replied. “With wine in our cups and a bright future ahead, I should be wishing for your success in the selection, not speaking of dying in battle.”

Cao Cao, whose mood could shift quickly, laughed at her words. “Indeed! Let us first drink to that!”

Cao Ang, observing the conversation, sighed silently.

He realized why these two treated each other as equals—there was a shared openness and mutual respect between them.

However, regardless of the outcome, it seemed he would end up studying at the academy in Le Ping.

He wondered what that place was like as he briefly shifted his gaze from Qiao Yan and Cao Cao.

He noticed a robust and valiant guard by Qiao Yan’s side talking to someone on the wall.

Looking closer, he saw a figure perched up there.

The odd yet contrasting scene somehow felt perfectly normal within the confines of the Marquis of Le Ping’s residence.

As he refocused on the conversation, he realized he had missed a question directed at him.

Cao Cao, noticing his distraction, repeated, “Yueshu asked you what books you are currently reading.”

Cao Ang replied, “I’ve been reading ‘The Disquisition on the Overthrow of Qin’ and ‘On Governance and Peace.'”

Aware that elders often judged young people by their aspirations, Qiao Yan thoughtfully said, “Zixiu, aspiring to govern like Jia Yi is a great ambition, but do not emulate—”

“He was born in the wrong era.”

But whether it was a matter of timing or fate, even Qiao Yan, who now attempted to navigate the chessboard of politics, couldn’t draw a conclusion, let alone Cao Ang.

….

In the eleventh month of the fourth year of Zhongping, the Minister of Agriculture Cao Song purchased his office and assumed the position of Grand Commandant.

Similarly, in mid-November of that same year, numerous officials, either serving or idle, who had come to participate in the selection of the General of the North, arrived at the military camp on the western outskirts of Luoyang.

Previously, Liu Hong had not had the leisure to personally scrutinize the lists of these incoming officials.

However, now that he intended to select a private army under the guise of selecting the General of the North, with all personnel present, it was inevitable that he would come to inspect.

The Northern Army of Luoyang marched to this large camp in the western outskirts, where they erected a platform in an open space for checking and reviewing troops.

Below the platform, soldiers were arranged in formation, with the candidates standing in front.

On the platform stood the current emperor and his close ministers.

Cao Cao looked towards the platform and saw Qiao Yan among them.

Perhaps because of her achievements in fighting the Xiu Tu from the north, she had been brought in as a judge.

Perhaps it was because she had proposed the re-establishment of the General of the North.

This brought her this unusual honor. Or perhaps—

This was merely her current display of being favored by the emperor.

In any case, Qiao Yan had the best vantage point, observing both the unfamiliar faces below and Liu Hong’s reactions clearly.

After he settled in his seat at the head, a palace attendant brought the list of participating generals to Liu Hong.

As he read through it line by line, there seemed to be nothing particularly remarkable on the surface, but Qiao Yan had a strong intuition that his current mood was far from pleasant.

Several copies of this list were distributed and Qiao Yan glanced through one quickly, realizing why Liu Hong was reacting this way.

It wasn’t in vain that she had deliberately passed on information to Yuan’s family!

Considering Yuan’s nominations, most were relatively restrained choices, such as Han Fu and Ji Ling, who hadn’t yet made significant names for themselves and had no direct ties to Yuan’s family.

However, Yuan’s family, believing that nothing remains secret forever, had leaked information to General He.

This changed the situation significantly.

Wu Kuang and Zhang Zhaong—

These were staunch loyalists of General He openly.

These two had even, after the death of General He Jin, harbored resentment against He Miao and conspired to kill him, claiming extreme loyalty to He Jin.

There was no reason for these two to participate in the selection of the General of the North, especially under General He’s influence, but unfortunately

they appeared here at this moment.

Dong Min—

He was Dong Zhuo’s younger brother, currently serving under He Jin’s command.

And there was another whose identity was openly displayed.

Wang Kuang, the prefectural scribe of General He Jin.

This list practically slapped Liu Hong in the face.

Regardless of the purpose of this selection, I, He Jin, must profit from it.

Qiao Yan silently mocked, “Butcher’s mentality,” though she showed no hint of it on her face.

After considering for a moment, she thought, if only He Jin’s planted personnel were exposed on the surface, it would lack some firepower.

Better to expose everyone’s backgrounds altogether!

She withdrew her gaze from the list, suddenly stood up from the line, and bowed to Liu Hong, saying, “Your Majesty, may I speak?”

Liu Hong raised an eyebrow. “Speak.”

“If we are to select a General of the North, we must at least have someone capable of dealing with the Xiongnu.

I have some knowledge of the Huns from my previous encounters with the Xiu Tu King of the North.

Therefore, I dare to ask Your Majesty to allow me to participate and compete with the other generals!”

Liu Hong looked at Qiao Yan, who had arrived today dressed in equestrian attire.

Her attire made it clear that she had this plan in mind, perhaps not just now.

However, since she raised the issue now and it evidently did not conflict with his interests, it could still be beneficial to him!

“Granted!”