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"The feeling is mutual, Xu Shu, I hope we can exchange some knowledge concerning human nature," Zhuge Liang replied. As the three young scholars began to interact with each other, Sima Hui from the side observed the conversation and saw how Zhuge Liang could keep up with his apprentice, he felt that Zhuge Liang could be a valuable addition to the group of apprentices under him, he had the talent and he had a feeling that he will become one of the best in this era.
Zhuge Liang, Pang Tong, and Xu Shu exchanged a few more words, their mutual respect and curiosity evident in their conversation. Eventually, they turned to face Sima Hui, who had been observing them with a serene smile.
"Come," Sima Hui said, his voice gentle but firm. "Let us move to a more secluded area where we can continue our discussions in peace."
He led them through a winding path that gradually ascended a mountainside. Zhuge Liang was intrigued, noting the tranquility and natural beauty of the surroundings. After a short walk, they arrived at a small, hidden village nestled in the mountains.
Zhuge Liang's eyes widened in surprise. "This is where you reside, Master Sima Hui?" he asked, taking in the simple yet harmonious setting.
Sima Hui nodded. "Yes, this is where I have chosen to live and teach. It is away from the chaos of the world, a place where one can focus on knowledge and reflection, where one could reach an inner peace."
As they walked through the village, Zhuge Liang noticed modest houses, a small garden, and a flowing stream. The atmosphere was calm and conducive to learning.
Sima Hui guided them to a pavilion by the stream, where they could sit and continue their discussion. Sima Hui takes a seat followed by Xu Shu and Panh Tong who sit at his left and right, as for Zhuge Liang he sits across the three of them.
"Now that we are here," Sima Hui began, "we can delve deeper into the matters at hand. Zhuge Liang, you have shown great promise. I believe you have the potential to become one of the finest minds of our time. Pang Tong and Xu Shu will be your peers, and together you will learn and grow under my tutelage."
Pang Tong smiled, his eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "I look forward to our time together, Zhuge Liang. There is much we can learn from each other."
Xu Shu nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Our combined knowledge and perspectives that are shared between us will help us in our learning."
Zhuge Liang felt a deep sense of gratitude and determination. "Thank you, Master Sima Hui. I am honored to be here and to have the opportunity to learn under you alongside Pang Tong and Xu Shu. I will do my best to live up to your expectations."
Sima Hui smiled warmly. "I have no doubt that you will, Zhuge Liang. Now, let us begin our study. The world outside may be filled with turmoil, but here, we will find peace, clarity, and wisdom."
Over the next few days, Zhuge Liang immersed himself in study and discussion with Pang Tong and Xu Shu. They explored various topics, from strategy and governance to philosophy and human nature.
The environment, combined with the guidance of Sima Hui, allowed Zhuge Liang to refine his skills and deepen his understanding of the knowledge he gained, and gaining new knowledge.
Over the next few days, Zhuge Liang immersed himself in study and discussion with Pang Tong and Xu Shu. They explored various topics, from strategy and governance to philosophy and human nature.
The environment, combined with the guidance of Sima Hui, allowed Zhuge Liang to refine his skills deepen his understanding of the knowledge he gained, and gain new knowledge.
One afternoon, as Zhuge Liang was poring over a scroll on ancient military tactics, Sima Hui approached him with a thoughtful expression. "Zhuge Liang," he began, "there are two of my oldest friends you should meet. Their wisdom and experience surpass even my own in certain areas."
Zhuge Liang looked up, intrigued. "Who are they, Master?" as he asked Sima Hui, Zhuge Liang put down the scroll in his hand at the table in front of him.
Sima Hui smiled. "Pang Degong and Huang Chengyan. Both have spent many years studying the ways of the world and the nature of men. Their guidance will be of great benefit to you."
Later that day, Sima Hui brought Zhuge Liang to a secluded part of the village, where two elderly men were engaged in a quiet conversation.
The first, with a dignified presence and piercing eyes, was Pang Degong. The other, with a calm demeanor and an air of profound wisdom, was Huang Chengyan.
Pang Degong noticed their approach and smiled warmly. "Old Hui, it has been some time. And this must be the young prodigy you have taken under your wing."
Sima Hui nodded. "Yes, this is Zhuge Liang. He has already shown great promise, especially in military strategy, governance, and philosophy."
Zhuge Liang bowed deeply. "It is an honor to meet you, Master Pang Degong and Master Huang Chengyan. I have long heard of your esteemed names alongside My Master."
Huang Chengyan gestured for Zhuge Liang to sit. "Come, young man. Let us see what you have learned so far from Old Hui and your past tutors who taught you."
Listening to the words that Huang Chengyan said, Sima Hui acts offended at the words of his old friend, "Old Huang what do you mean by saying that? Are you saying that my teaching wasn't as good as before?"
"Haha! Old Huang look at what you have done, you made Old Hui angry, looks like you need to open your old wine to apologize!", Pang Degong laughed out loud after hearing what Sima Hui said while teasing Huang Chengyan.
Huang Chenguan doesn't panic hearing what Pang Degong said but responds with some words that illicit a laugh from both Pang Degong and Sima Hui, as the three shared a good laugh.
Zhuge Liang stood flabbergasted from the side, surprised at how ordinary the interaction between the three most admired reclusive scholars was, he thought they would interact very differently from other people but it looked like he was wrong.
The three old scholars soon realized that there was a newcomer in their midst and seeing the surprised expression etched on Zhuge Liang's face, they just smiled and used this moment to sometimes tease Zhuge Liang in the future.
"Ahem... Well then young Zhuge come here, I apologize for the scene you just saw. Let's start the discussion we going to hold before." Embarrassed, Huang Chengyang let out a cough before calling for Zhuge Liang to begin their discussion.
In the next few hours, Zhuge Liang engaged in lively discussions with Pang Degong and Huang Chengyan. They shared their knowledge on a variety of subjects, from the intricacies of statecraft to the subtleties of human nature.
Pang Degong spoke at length about the importance of understanding one's enemy and allies in either battlefield or court politics, while Huang Chengyan emphasized the need for moral integrity and the art of persuasion, as well as the importance of craftsmanship which could train someone's patience.
Zhuge Liang was captivated by their insights. He asked thoughtful questions, eagerly absorbing the wisdom they imparted. The two elder scholars were impressed by his curiosity and depth of understanding.
"Young Zhuge," Pang Degong said, "you remind me of myself in my youth. The world is vast and filled with challenges, but with your talent and dedication, you will navigate it well."
Huang Chengyan nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Remember, true wisdom comes from not just knowledge, but understanding how to apply it. Always seek to learn, and never be afraid to question what you see or hear."
As the sun began to set, Zhuge Liang felt a deep sense of gratitude. "Thank you, Masters. Your guidance has been invaluable. I will try to apply what both of you have given to me."
Sima Hui, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. "You have done well, Zhuge Liang. I permitted you to seek out Old Huang and Old Pang to learn from them, of course, whether they agree or not it's up to them."
Zhuge Liang bowed deeply to Sima Hui. "Thank you, Master Sima, for permitting me to seek the guidance of Masters Pang and Huang in the future. I will cherish this gift."
Sima Hui nodded, a serene smile on his face. "You have shown great potential, Zhuge Liang. Continue to grow, learn, and understand the knowledge you seek and have, you will become one of the best in this era."
Zhuge Liang turned to Pang Degong and Huang Chengyan, who had remained silent, their expressions unreadable. He bowed to them as well. "Masters Pang and Huang, I hope to learn more from you in the future. I am deeply grateful for your time and wisdom today."
Pang Degong and Huang Chengyan exchanged a glance, but neither spoke. Their silence left Zhuge Liang uncertain, yet he knew that he must respect their decision, whatever it might be.
As the evening grew darker, Sima Hui and Zhuge Liang made their way back to Sima Hui's residence, Zhuge Liang's mind was still buzzing with the day's discussions and lessons with Pang Degong and Huang Chengyan.
Meanwhile, in Lujiang, Lu Xun was beginning his study and gaining some experience that he wanted. Lu Kang and Wang Lang, after reaching an agreement, decided to give Lu Xun a small ranking official position within the administration.
This would provide him with practical experience and an opportunity to apply his theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, without impacting any large scale scenarios that are ongoing right now.
On his first day, Lu Xun reported to the administrative hall, a mixture of excitement and nervousness evident on his face. He was greeted by Lu Kang, who welcomed him warmly.
"Boyan, welcome. We have high hopes for you," Lu Kang said with a smile. "You will be starting as an Assistant Magistrate. It's a position that will allow you to learn the intricacies of governance and administration."
Wang Lang, standing beside Lu Kang, nodded in agreement. "We have also assigned a trusted advisor to guide you. This is Master Han Zhi, a seasoned official with years of experience."
Han Zhi, a middle-aged man with a calm demeanor and sharp eyes, stepped forward and greeted Lu Xun with a respectful bow. "Young Master Lu Xun, I look forward to working with you. Together, we will learn the challenges of administration and governance in the real world."
Lu Xun returned the bow, feeling reassured by the presence of such experienced mentors. "Thank you, Master Han Zhi. I am eager to learn and serve to the best of my abilities."
Over the next few days, Lu Xun immersed himself in his new role. Under Han Zhi's guidance, he learned the day-to-day operations of the local government, from resolving disputes among citizens to managing resources and implementing policies on a small scale. Sometimes the dispute he resolves could get out of hand, and the Orioles that acted as his guard immediately neutralized any threat to Lu Xun, and this caused his jurisdiction to be one of the most secure in the entirety of Lujiang.
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Name: Lie Fan
Title: Three Heroes Who Defeat Lu Bu
Age: 31 (198 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 825
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 936 (+20)
VIT: 598 (+20)
AGI: 583 (+10)
INT: 587
CHR: 96
WIS: 509
WILL: 397
ATR Points: 0