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After having defeated Liu Biao and having announced your friendship with Sun Jian, you make your return journey to Chen with the remainder of your men. Rewards and ranks are given out to those who made merits; particularly Hao Xian and Zhang He who managed to defeat Cai Mao while you were saving Sun Jian. Hao Xian picks out 500 soldiers who have been with you since the day you raised your army and recommends they become your elite guard, as they have become hardened veterans over the years of battle they have participated in.

You hear news of the Yellow Scarves rebels having killed Ren Jun and taken over Liang province. You have missed your opportunity to take a commandery for yourself at the benefit of aiding Sun Jian. Still, you hold very little regrets at having saved a hero and a warlord that considers you an equal and if your plans to not go awry you will soon hold more territories.

You hear that Cao Cao has begun taking commanderies in the province of Yan. He has defeated several thousands of Yellow Scarves. It seems fortunate has favored Cao Cao greatly, as the warlord Liu Dai was killed in battle against the rebels and his defenseless territories are starting to look towards Cao Cao for help.

When you return to Chen, you hear news that Han Fu and his family have come seeking refuge with you. In the far north you hear that Han Fu allowed Yuan Shao to come in to his territories at the fear of Gongsun Zan's invasion. Yuan Shao then proceeded to attack Han Fu, and the man was forced to flee. Yuan Shao swiftly managed to take Ji province and his territories have greatly expanded, though not all of Ji province has been pacified yet. You hear Gongsun Zan is furious, accusing Yuan Shao that it was he who invited Gongsun Zan to attack Ji. Preparations for war between the two are already on the way.

You talk with Zhang He at Han Fu's arrival. Zhang He makes a small sigh.

“It was as I predicted,” Zhang He says. “Lord Han Fu was not right in these times of war and he has already been ousted. It shames me that I was not there to defend him in his time of need.”

What do you do with Han Fu? He is an enemy of Yuan Shao, and helping Han Fu will certainly make Yuan Shao angry.

>bring him under your protection, Han Fu was a good man and treated you well
>turn Han Fu away form your territory, he is only trouble
>kill Han Fu and send his head to Yuan Shao

>>519011
>>bring him under your protection, Han Fu was a good man and treated you well

>>519011
>bring him under your protection, Han Fu was a good man and treated you well
This nigga is no Liu Bei, we are safe from within.

>>519011
>>bring him under your protection, Han Fu was a good man and treated you well
He was an administrator we need one. And if Yuan Shao sends a mess anger asking about it we kick him out unceremoniously. Then have a trusted soldier hand him a sealed scroll saying that we are still working with him and that this was merely for show. If he wins its for real if he loses its not.

>>519011
>>bring him under your protection, Han Fu was a good man and treated you well

This is basically final straw with Yuan Shao but fuck that nigga

>>519011

>bring him under your protection, Han Fu was a good man and treated you well

For the record, if Yuan Shao does get all uppity with us. We can keep telling him we are working with him on the sly. Cross the sea without the emperor's knowledge.

>>519011

>bring him under your protection, Han Fu was a good man and treated you well

>>519061
Dude's stupid, but I don't know how stupid he is.

We fucked over his ally Liu Biao and are now sheltering his enemy.

>>519070
Which is why none will think we are allied!

>>519070
Nobody would ever expect one of Yuan Shao's allies to be the very same person who's been at odds with him the entire time.

Eh I think starting to think that we have no intention helping yuan shao.

>>519078
Of course we do! We are finding out all those who oppose him and will consolidate them under our banner to keep them from spreading throughout the country! When he takes the north they die or something.

Yuan Shao is a noted superdouche, i thought we were just working with him to take stuff from him in the end.

>>519078
You'd be rig-

>>519082
Uhhh I mean of course we are on his side! It's all an elaborate ruse.

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Despite the weakness of Han Fu, and no doubt brought about his own downfall with no one to blame but himself, you cannot help but feel sympathy for the man. He has long since been good to you at the start of your career and he is overall a nice man. In times of peace Han Fu would have been an administrator loved by his people.

“Zhang He, we are both indebted to Han Fu and he has treated the both of us graciously. How can we abandon him in his time of need?”

“Yes,” Zhang He says with a nod. “I too wish to help him. But I fear we will be making an enemy of Yuan Shao. We have likely already incurred his dislike by fighting Liu Biao,” Zhang He mutters. You remember that Liu Biao is unofficially an ally of Yuan Shao against Yuan Shu.

“We will not do away with out principles to ingrate ourselves with Yuan Shao,” you state firmly. You turn to your guards. “Quickly, bring Han Fu to our village. Make certain he is treated well and given food if he needs.” Zhang He smiles at your actions.

An hour later you meet Han Fu outsides your headquarters. He came with only a small entourage of guards and in a small carriage with his family. The soldiers are fatigued greatly and signs show they have been in battle When Han Fu comes out of his carriage, you can see that his clothes are dirtied, his eyes weary, and the man looks exhausted. He nearly collapses as he walks to you.

“Oh Zheng Li, such misfortune that has been brought upon me,” he says as tears begin to well up in his eyes. “I fell for Yuan Shao's ploy. He informed me that Gongsun Zan was going to attack and I trusted him to defend Ji province as we once worked together. I trusted him and he proceeded to attack my territories. I was forced to flee south where I was attacked by bandits here and there. Most of my men are dead, one of my sons was killed by an arrow. There were many times where we went hungry and was forced to eat what rotten grain we could find. We now have no where to go.”

Han Fu begins to sob uncontrollably.

>sympathize with Han Fu and shed a few tears for him
>help Han Fu up, but remain calm and collected
>criticize Han Fu, tell him he must man up

>>519091
>>help Han Fu up, but remain calm and collected

>>519091
>>help Han Fu up, but remain calm and collected
Come friend rest a while. We have need of an able administrator such as yourself.

>>519091
>help Han Fu up, but remain calm and collected

Show sympathy, of course.

I think we may be right siding against Yuan Shao now. He may just be a dick.

>>519091
>help Han Fu up, but remain calm and collected
Tell Dr. Phil about it, Han Fu

>>519091
> Help Han Fu up, but remain clam and collected

A harsh journey and story but we must maintain a leaders mind set. To some by showing emotion we show weakness. Even in our own home we must still act as a leader should, as our officers and guests are present and they could judge us as weak due to our actions.

>>519091
>>criticize Han Fu, tell him he must man up

>>519102
>He may just be a dick.
There's no may about it. He is a massive fucking dick.

Still, his ego clouds his common sense and if we play it right, we can spin him around until he dies.

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You help Han Fu up, remaining calm. You dust some of the dirt and grime off his clothes and you order your guards to take Han Fu's family to the dining room for some food and rest.

“Lord Han Fu you have undergone many hardships and I can only imagine the pain that you have gone through. But rest assured you are in safe lands now. I will provide for your family, and Zhang He is here as well.”

Zhang He comes beside you and Han Fu clasps his hands.

“Zhang He, I should have listened to you when you petitioned for me to raise troops and to prepare for war. I thought I could govern Ji peacefully and I have learned a cruel lesson from reality. I can only ask you for your forgiveness,” Han Fu says crying.

“No Governor,” Zhang He says with a small tear coming from his eyes. “You were only born in the wrong times. I am the one who should ask your forgiveness. I should have been at Ji when Yuan Shao attacked.”

Han Fu shakes his head.

“Even if you were there I fear nothing would have changed. You would have only died at the hands of Yuan Shao.” Han Fu sighs and then turns to you. “Lord Zheng Li, I am quite tired of politics and lies. I only wish to live peacefully with my family. I will not ask much from you, only a small house for my family and I to live in. I will sell most of my valuables for gold and perhaps I can start a small business to provide for my family.”

Han Fu bows to you.

“I know I have no right to ask, but I ask for your kindness and generosity. I will not bother you any more besides thus.”

>give Han Fu a small house and let him live in peace
>spend 50 gold to give Han Fu and his family a generous house with servants
>tell Han Fu to work as a civil official under you

>>519146
I like the idea of playing the asshole til he dies and we take his stuff. Unless he goes typical and stops listening to everyone around him.

>>519155
>spend 50 gold to give Han Fu and his family a generous house with servants

>>519155
>>spend 50 gold to give Han Fu and his family a generous house with servants
And if you would repay me by becoming an administrator for Chen it would be repaid a hundred fold.

>>519155
>>give Han Fu a small house and let him live in peace

Let him make his own future

>>519155
>spend 50 gold to give Han Fu and his family a generous house with servants

Then ask if he could be an administrator for us.

>>519155
>>spend 50 gold to give Han Fu and his family a generous house with servants

>>519155
>spend 50 gold to give Han Fu and his family a generous house with servants
>tell Han Fu to work as a civil official under you

>>519155
>>give Han Fu a small house and let him live in peace

If he wants a peace filled life, and really doesn't want this anymore, we have no reason to stop him.

>>519155
>>tell Han Fu to work as a civil official under you

If he refuses

>give Han Fu a small house and let him live in peace

>>519155
>>spend 50 gold to give Han Fu and his family a generous house with servants
>>tell Han Fu to work as a civil official under you

"Kindness needs to be rewarded with kindness. It was you who helped me once long ago, now it is my turn to help you."

>>519155
>>tell Han Fu to work as a civil official under you

If not, give him the house

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“I shall do more than that,” you tell Han Fu. “Let me give you a larger house so that you and your family may live in comfort. I shall give you servants that will provide for your household. You treated me most graciously several years back and I will not see you living in further hardships. In return, I ask that you help me administer Chen. Please become a judge and see too it that the law is upheld here.”

“Oh, thank you Zheng Li, thank you,” Han fu says bowing several times and crying more. “I will never be able to repay you, and many blessing to you.”

You spend some of your treasury to give Han Fu a desirable house and you appoint him as minor judge in your territories. As the days go by you hear that Han Fu works hard to repay you for your kindness and he is well trusted by the people who go to him. (-50 gold)

The taxes and food from the last Spring season are collected (+600 gold). For the season of Summer you were campaigning with Sun Jian. It is now Fall season, the year 191. at the end of this season you will be collecting additional taxes.

What do you do for this season? The plan you made with Sun Jian entails you take Runan by the end of next year whether by negotiations or through military might. And considering how men like Yuan Shao, Gongsun Zan, and Cao Cao to the north of you have already begun expanding their lands, you should plan to further your power as well.

625 gold, purchases are free action
>recruit soldiers: 1 gold for 1
>improved spears: 1 gold for 1
>improved armor: 1 gold for 1
>improved crossbows: 1 gold for 1
>horses: 1 gold for 1
>rams: 100 gold for 1
>catapults: 100 gold for 1
>warships: 100 gold for 1 (can hold 300 men)

>>519193
1 warship, ram and catapult with 200 men. Then we train the fuck out of them.

>>519193
recruit 250 soldiers
buy 250 crossbows
but 1 warship

>>519193
Is Runan heavily defended? Do we need siege weapons? Do we need boats to get there?

Regardless, we definitely need more men.

>>519193
If we're going to move southwards, we're going to need at least 2 ships, possibly 3.

Definitely going to need siege equipment; ladders won't cut it and this ain't Crusader Quest with Greek Fire being available for us to use. Definitely 1 ram and possibly 2 catapults.

Definitely need more manpower; 150 men should do it and train the shit out of them.

> 2x Warships
> 1x Ram
> 2x Catapults
> 150x Recruits

- 550 gold

>>519201
No but to attack Liu Biao we need to cross the river. Taking Runan is a step towards that direction and we need to be able to keep up on water and siege practice will be a god send when we hit his main base.

>>519207
Wow, I suck at math.

Nix 1 of the catapults.

>>519208
We're gonna need a lot of ships in the future if we're going to start waging war around Jingzhou.

>>519193
Find out some info on exactly who runs Runan.

>>519198
A good start.

We should look to take it with as little bloodshed as possible, plots and intrigue and the like. At the very least we need to send someone to scout it out. Wine merchant would make a good cover

What info you have about Runan is that it is currently guarded by 5000 soldiers under a man named Du Ji. Du Ji is said to be a respectable man and he has some generals of worth under his command. The main city of Runan has stone walls around it but outside of that not many defense are present.

You still have a year to prepare for an invasion of Runan through military strength or to try and negotiate something.

>>519232
Would it be in the realm of feasible to send Hao Xian or Lu Fan to Runan to scout/survey/spy as part of a merchant caravan?

Probably use the two brains of the entire force to try to get the people's favor and out-BENEVOLENCE this Du Ji goy.

>>519246
Sure if you want, and assuming others agree to the action.

>>519246
I would not be opposed to sending them out to scout Runan for a month or two.

>>519246
Sure, i like the idea

>>519232
It would be best to persuade them somehow. Fighting 5000 men in a siege is probably not the best outcome.

>>519198
Is this what you want to spend gold on?

>>519267
Fine gets us out of this.

>>519250
Hoo-boy, probably be best to pull Lu Fan and Hao Xian for a private meeting and see what they think of a little business/subterfuge trip to Runan.

Definitely the best way to figure out troop dispositions, city layout, people's sentiment of their ruler, and every piece of strategic information possible.

>>519267
I have a weakness for being shooty, yes.

>>519284
Your name is now Face McShooty.

>>519302
And i shall wear it proudly!

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+250 soldiers, Recruits
+250 improved crossbows
+1 Warship

For the season of Fall you focus on gaining intel. In order to gather more information on Runan, you send Lu Fan and Hao Xian posing as wine merchants. At the end of the season they return having successfully gathered information and support at Runan.

Hao Xian focused on gathering some support for you. He spread news of your kindness towards the common people and Han Fu, praising you as a benevolent lord. He spreads news of your victory against the Yellow Scarves and Liu Biao promoting your bravery. Support for you in Runan has grown and it will be easier to pacify the area.

Lu Fan placed his efforts on gaining more information. For the most part no one in Runan is disatisfied with Du Ji. He does most of his duties and governs the land adequately. Under his command are two generals named Lu Qian and Chen Zhen. They are both brave and decent generals, but Lu Fan assures you they are in no way comparable to Hao Xian and Zhang He in leading or martial ability like Yang Jing.

Du Ji is looking to expand his clan influence and has a daughter to marry off. Lu Fan says you can perhaps try to negotiate with Duji for Runan, though Lu Fan suggests building a stronger army and making certain you are in a position of power before negotiating. Elsewise Du Ji will not recognize your authority.

>>519350
An additional 600 gold is collected for the end of Fall season. It is Winter now. You hear that Cao Cao has defeated most of the Yellow Scarves and has taken the territories of Yan. A minor lord Bao Xian also perished in battle and his territories have also been added to Cao Cao's land. Many Yellow rebels have begun surrendering to Cao Cao and you hear that he has recruited many of them in to his army while giving land to others to farm and til. Hearing of his brilliance and generosity, many people of talent have begun flocking to Cao Cao. His power and influence has grown, perhaps you should negotiate with him and open relationships with him while he is still pacifying Yan.

In the north you hear Yuan Shao and Gongsun Zan have begun battle. So far there is a stalemate. Yuan Shao army mainly composed of crossbowmen are fighting on even with Gongsun Zan's cavalry.

You receive a letter from Yuan Shao. The contents state:

“To Zheng Li,
I have heard most troubling news of your reign, much to my dismay. In the past you promised that you would aid me in pacifying the land. Yet I hear you have wared with Liu Biao and given hospitality to my enemy Han Fu.

I have grown weary of your actions. How can a man say he serves my force while doing so much to go against me? An honorable man is bound by his words and keeps his promise. Would you lie and disparge your honor?

To see your good faith, I ask that you send me a tribute of supplies for my fight against Gongsun Zan. Do so and my faith in you shall be given some strength. Fail to do this, and I will consider that you have betrayed my trust and in the near future you shall be my enemy.

How do you respond to Yuan Shao?

>send supplies as Yuan Shao requested, assure him you are still his ally
>burn the letter and refuse any more correspondence. You are no longer his ally
>insult Yuan Shao and denounce his treacherous actions

>>519353
>>insult Yuan Shao and denounce his treacherous actions
Openly and loudly. Then send a secret message saying that who would dare think that we are allies? Surely not Cao Cao who will oppose him. We will continue to pacify the south in preparation for him.

>>519353
>>519362
Yes, this is a good idea!

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>>519362
>>519367
Good plan.

>>519353
>>519362
Agree with this. It works no matter what happens. Whether he believes or not doesn't matter. Even if he does try to reveal us, since we get out in front loudly that's what people are most likely to believe.

>insult him

Can we please stop sucking this asshole's dick just because we know OOC that he becomes a powerhouse? So fucking tired of people here constantly trying to meta the game. We have Sun Jian as an ally and he is 100x better.

>>519381
I still want to bang Lu Bu's daughter. Even if the greatest dies, we need to try and manipulate events to give us Lu Lingqi.

>>519381
No I'm just stringing the fuck along. If he accepts it and gives us information we can use to end him so be it.

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>>519385
I still want to somehow attract Dian Wei to our banner

He was a beast

>>519353
>>send supplies as Yuan Shao requested, assure him you are still his ally

Alright, I'm sorry Arpeggio.

But can you explain in detail the Yuan Shao relationship. I'm relatively sure we super agreed to be this guy's nigger.

Did all the old players quit this quest and a bunch of anti Yuan Shao people swoop in?

Like why the fuck are we being so wishy washy.

>>519400
>I'm a stupid retard who can't read.

>>519362
>>519353
Seconding this nigger's plans.

>>519400
No from the start I've been for only helping and fucking off since we agree so I be in secret alliance which was to only serve to keep him amiable to us.

>>519407
Helping if he wins and fucking off if he loses. Sorry phone is lagging behind type speed.

>>519353
> insult

Fuck dis nigga, what "secret alliance"? He stole muh friend's land using false pretenses! Fuck, we may as well post notices all over the south and denounce the shit out of Yuan Shao.

Also send an envoy to Cao Cao to alert him of Yuan Shao's ambitions. That'll buy us some time while they start facing off.

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Yuan Shao so far has been a terrible ally to you. You send our missives denouncing Yuan Shao, calling hims a treacherous villain who took over Han Fu's territory by deceitful means. You berate his honor and declare there are none in the Central Plains who wish to be rid off Yuan Shao. Despite all of this, you are still weary of Yuan Shao's power which has grown since he took Ji. You write a secret letter to Yuan Shao, informing him that you still wish to be his ally in secret and will help him when the time comes.

You hear many scholars and generals have come to join Cao Cao. Hao Xian states you should begin recruiting more talented individuals as well, and back in Runan when he was investigating, he found several notable talents. He tells you he has the time to recruit one of these people and asks you choose one.

>a well-respected scholar skilled with words and a man of principles
>a brave and doughty warrior, said to be good at riding horses
>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family

>>519448
>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family

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>>519448
>a well-respected scholar skilled with words and a man of principles
picking ^
>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family
?????????????????????

>>519448
>a well-respected scholar skilled with words and a man of principles

>>519448
>a well-respected scholar skilled with words and a man of principles

>>519448
>a brave and doughty warrior, said to be good at riding horses
If this is really Chen Gong then Hell Yeah

>>519448
>>a well-respected scholar skilled with words and a man of principles
But maybe set Hao Xian up with the girl?

>>519448
>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family

We need that influence, especially niw that we'll be expanding southwards.

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>>519472
How the fuck does that describe Chen Gong?

>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family
We already have a scholar officer If recall, and we don't really have any Calvary for this general to command

>>519477
Wait

Shit I got my characters mixed up. Who the fuck was that one cavalry general who fought under Lu Bu?

>>519472
lolnope

Sounds more like Taishici but pretty sure he's already working for Wang Lang or whoever it was.

>>519485
Zhang Liao?

>>519448
>a well-respected scholar skilled with words and a man of principles

Guys. Guys.

We need that influence character with her CHR and POL.

We have an abundance of military types and we have Hao Xian and Lu Fan as well as Han Fu as our scholarly types.

If we want to stabilize domestic and interpersonal relationships in the south, we're going to need influence, especially if it's backed by an old respectable clan.

>>519448
>>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family

At least tell me her name even if this option doesn't get picked.

>implying we're getting god tier officers

Please. It isn't Chen Gong or Gao Shun you dopes. Voting for woman. Would be nice to have a nonsausagefest force.

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>>519448
I know it's to prevent metagaming but fuck Hao Xian, you couldn't even find out their names? The whole 'influential family' bit would mean a whole fucking lot more if, you know, we knew what the family was called?

>>519504
>yeah I wasn't really paying that much attention sorry boss

>>519486
>>519488
After looking it up, I think the general I had in mind was Gao Shun?

>>519448
>>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family
I CHOOSE WAIFUS!

>>519504
>Its another Matador sips his coffee while being annoyed episode

>>519500
This nigga gets it.

Also nobody expects a woman to be hypercompetent.

>>519448
>an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family

Fuck it. Hoping for high INT to help out with strategies.

I mean, I know we're probably not going to marry this woman, but I honestly think this is the one time where you should choose the girl because she has a pussy.

We need to expand our clan and that requires a waifu. We should at the very least see if its worth getting into this girl's pants.

Seriously, this is not the time to anti-waifufag. This is the time to in-character be a waifu fag.

>>519518
And because it's 2nd century AD China, having multiple wives isn't a crime!

>>519518
Yes, expanding the lineage is very important. We must have heirs if we are to survive for any length of time, especially while we are young and relatively uninjured.

>>519521
We really should start looking for a wife or two. It'd be nice to have an heir in case we die

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>>519513

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>>519521
It isn't. But it can be fatal.

Why not ask Sun Jian to marry his daughter?

>>519515
This is BC China. The biggest names for females back then was Diao Chan who seduced Lu Bu, the twins who married Sun Ce and his Bro, Sun Xiang, and a few others. Aside from Lu Linque, a purely fictional character, there really weren't any real female warriors that stand out. I'd say Sun would be a good choice to solidify our alliance with the Sun clan, though thats just me.

>>519470
I'll change my vote to >an intelligent and courageous noble woman, said to be from an influential family

People have made good points for that choice.

Are we really only 23?

Like, its 189, right?

So we were 18 during the yellow turban rebellion? That makes sense.

>>519528
Link to OP senpai

>>519526
Dude she's like 8 at this point.

>>519526
SSX isn't of age.

>>519526
We're gonna marry SSX and Lu Lingqi. Then since it's 2 Century China, we're going to have the kids marry each other to create a Super Officer.

>>519526
I think he kind of offered already. We just need to wait a while

Now that you mention it, that'd likely be my first choice for Prime Wife

>>519527
Mate, it's 190 AD, not BC. 190 BC would be Early Western Han.

I'm all for a Sun-Zheng marriage, it's just that SSX isn't of marriageable age YET.

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Though your force is full of talented individuals, you have not yet obtained any influential family members to join your cause. In the realm of politics and garnering support from the people, ingratiating yourself with nobles can be quite beneficial. You order Hao Xian to recruit the noble woman.

A week later Hao Xian comes to you with the new officer. You are curious to see this new recruit; a woman of all people that never really participates in politics or battle. But Hao Xian informs you that she is actually skilled with a blade and acts as the head of her clan. He tells you she mainly acts in the interest of her clan and wishes to see it rise further. A somewhat similar situation when you first rose up.

You find a woman in light armor and short cut hair before you. To her sides are double short swords. When the woman comes before you, she stands with proud dignity rather than humility as is expected of women. She makes a small bow to you.

"I am Wang Yi," she announces. "I have been informed by Lord Hao Xian that you are looking for talented people to join your cause. However, wise people do not come to serve masters without good reason. Tell me why I should give you my loyalty," she says.

How do you reply to her?

>>519539
Ah that makes sense. Wang family is pretty influential around Runan I think. Guess she hasn't married yet.

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>>519539
best waifu get

>>519539
Our ambition is largely for the people, not for ourselves. We seek an end to the turbulence in this land and prosperity for it's workers. We do seek to expand our gains, of course, but for the good of the country.

Something along these lines, it's the best i can get right now.

>>519539
Oh shit nigger - fuck.

Um, spill spaghetti.

Ask her if she think Sun Ce is a super cool powerful warrior because we do.

Nah, but seriously. Um . . .

You should serve us because at this point you're best chance of rising up is with us. Cao Cao, Yuan Shao and all the other lords that have a spitting chance of winning would give you a low position in their forces.

Obviously, if you side with us now rather than later you will be granted a higher position than any of our rivals.

>>519548
>>519539

Also if you marry us your sons won't get murderized by Ma Chao.

But y'know, technically I don't know that.

>>519539
> MUH AMBITION

"I seek those who seek the same path as I. All Under Heaven. The Han, blessed be the ancestors, have decayed and the Heavens demand that we cut out the disease and bring peace to the people.

"Those who tread the same road as I will be rewarded for their services, their clans given the prestige and honor befitting them of their contributions to the Will of Heaven."

Jesus fuck I can't ambition courteously, I'm too much of a meathead to even make it sound good.

>>519556
And something something "your name and clan will be remembered for a thousand generations" and yadda yadda-- something along those general lines of thought.

>>519561
And also because we're a man of the common people while up north shitbags like Yuan Shao use disgusting and dishonorable ploys to evict lords and prefects from their appointed posts, posts that were assigned to them by the Han court.

>>519539
Because by working together we have a damn good chance of coming out on top during the chaos of the land. The time we live in now is ripe with opportunity and I assure you, that if you can help contribute to our rise in power, you will be granted status just like any of my other officers here.

>>519539
Tell her that if she serves us honorably and bravely, then we shall give her many chances to earn glory and honor for herself and her clan.

We have little patience for the selfish and power hungry lords who oppress the people for their own gain. Rather, we would seek to build our own domain where virtue and valor are valued upon all else! We would be honored to have others of like mind join us in this pursuit, not just merely as vassals but as comrades.

>>519561
Also probably an insane idea but offer to duel her til first blood if she wants to truly see our heart with blades instead of words.

>>519539
Because your clan will rise with me where it will be in a place of prominence according to your own talents and merits, rather than just one of many where you will have little opportunity.

>>519539
A good question, though one you can respect. The reason for it is simple. We seek a paththat may be long but worth it. To grow humble villages into thriving towns, to support those who see us as equal, to punish the likes who abuse their positions and look down on those who simply wish to help the whole. To raise our name and family to grand heights, to be respected, and to deal with these turbulent times.

But to do that, we need to grow. To gain deeds, allies, comrades, and talent. To bolster our homes and tighten our defences. Merit and loyalty is treated justly, and with the days to come there will be plenty of it.

>>519572
Don't. If she offers a duel then yes oblige, but don't offer.

>>519572
You can't just duel everyone you're attracted to Zheng Li!

>>519539
Use secret ancient chinese recruitment method.
Honk her boob.

>>519575
>>519577

But muh warrior roots!

Only through battle do True Warriors learn and understand each others hearts!

>>519581
Ah fuck I need to stop reading Kingdom and Vinland Saga.

>all these Wu fags

You disgust me

Ask her why we would want her.

The Ravages of Time a best! Fuck you deal with a SMART LU BU.

>>519590
>Wei is easy mode

>No one likes Shu

>Yuan Shao is just historically prone to making bad calls

>Supported Lu Bu last game

Guess who's left?

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>>519602
Yellow Turbans?

Some day...

>>519602
>>Yuan Shao is just historically prone to making bad calls

Sounded like fun, but no

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You attempt to empathize your own beginnings with that of Wang Yi in order to convince her. The two of you share similar goals in expanding your clan influence according to Hao Xian, and as such, there should be no reason for the both of you to not work well together. You speak truthfully and from the heart.

“A wise person chooses a wise master, certainly. I have found that in my last years of work, I have more than adequalty showed that I am capable. I rose from a minor clan to the position I now have today as a ruler and Intendant. I have gathered soldiers from nothing and gained men like my trusted Hao Xian to my service. In due time I look to expand my power to show what I am capable. The name of Zheng shall be recorded in history by the time I am rotting in the ground. Should you choose to serve me, your name and clan shall also follow through,” you tell Wang Yi.

“Interesting. But as I see it, your power and influence are small compared to others. Why should I serve you, a man who holds on commandery, over the other lords of this land who have so much more manpower and land?”

“Because it is for those reasons that you will never rise in rank,” you tell Wang Yi. “The officers I have today came from humble origins like myself. Yet our names command respect in the Central Plains. Soon our names will command respect throughout the entire country. Tell me Wang Yi, is it more commendable for one to serve someone powerful and leech off them, or to serve someone weaker who will one day become the strong? I seek to rid the world of the corrupt, to end the lines of corrupt warlords, and restore peace back to the people. I need talented men and women for this and it is my hope you shall join my cause in bringing back peace.”

Wang Yi rubs her chin and considers the words you have stated. After a few seconds a small smile forms on her face.

“I do like that you have ambition. However, your words of restoring peace and the like are too saccharine for my taste. I find that those with overly idealistic perceptions of justice and peace are prone to fail. Tell me then, are you willing to do what is needed, even commit evil, for your ambitions?”

How do you answer her?

>>519616
To bring an end to this age of war I would become what I must. Be an antihero during chaos or an administrator in peace.

>>519616
>Tell me then, are you willing to do what is needed, even commit evil, for your ambitions?”

yes

>>519616
I am capable of doing what's necessary for my people and my ambition. You'll find I am not lacking in conviction.

>>519616
Evil isn't a matter of what you do, it's whom you target. Justice and peace are a matter of perception, with adequate preparation of the populace you can do anything to an enemy and have it believed as just.

>>519623
>>519628
Combination of these is what i am liking right now.

>>519616
My lord Zheng Li has slain countless yellow turbans - executed them even when they pleaded for mercy. It has lost him some support, but it was a necessary evil.

Let no man say he can not make the hard decisions in life.

>>519616
"I was raised to stand by my beliefs, no matter how dark and dire the situation may be. When I last visited the venerable Tao Qian, one of his administrators offered to give me Xu Province. If I were a disgusting man of no principles, I would have taken Xuzhou by force then and there.

"But because my mother-- blessed be her-- raised me to be a gentleman and a man of honor and compassion, I refused that deal. Tell me, would you rather serve a lord who believes in taking everything and destroying his principles or would you rather follow someone who adheres to the principles which govern us mortals and the Heavens?"

>>519616
>I consider myself an honorable man, but only a fool would let honor dictate every action. There are many who would consider wars themselves evil acts, but for anyone to find true peace I will have to gain more power still.
>
>I will gain power, pacify all the lands I can, and have my name remembered in the histories. I can't do that if I'm a fool that clings purely to ideals. Wars are won with soldiers and swords, not honor and ideals, after all.

Something along these lines, maybe. I'm shit at dialogue.

>>519632
>rping as officers
Oh boy is this going to be a thing?

>>519639
Oh gods why.

Stop that.

>>519616
There are lines I will never cross, but do not mistake me for a man of benevolence.

I have killed countless people, and I shall bloody my hands many many more times before this is all over. To bring honor to my clan, to restore peace to this land, and to stand by those who have earned my trust, I will commit evil if I must

>>519616
In a way. In war hard choices must be made even if risky or uncouth, but blindly following either ambition or benevolence will lead to tragedy. Instead, I will hone them, use them, control them instead of letting them control me. When I must be cruel, I will be cruel. When I must be kind, I shall be kind.

>>519639
He's doing it 'ironically'.

>>519633
Bro, she'll refuse if we say that. She's looking for someone who isn't a naive idealist, read her text.

Talking only about how honorable and good we are, will just drive her away.

>>519632
Come on man, don't do that.

Here's hoping a combination of
>Yo, I've got morals fo' days
>But I'll straight up shank a bitch he he steps up to me, nawmsayin'?
Works out. I think it will, honestly, a mix of showing we're honorable and not evil, but that ideals don't mean shit if you don't have the strength to enforce them, and the pragmatism to do so.

>>519645
Even the SunCeFags didn't pull this shit.

>>519639

I should hope not

>>519648
Cefagpls fagpls

>>519647
Then what? Cao Cao it up and say stuff like "if the Heavens judge me evil for killing one man to save a thousand, then so be it"?

>>519647
Agreed on that.

Are there any practical examples of us being pragmatic that we can use?

>>519655
More or less. From what she's said, I'm feeling she's looking for someone who's 'good' and all, but isn't full-on BENEVOLENCE.

Like, a Pragmatic Good character.
We'll help people out, sure, but we'll sure as hell kill people to save people.

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>>519655

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>>519654

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>all this effort for wang yi when the other two officers were probably 100x better

>>519657
There's the whole Yuan Shao situation, but I don't think we are in the position where we can reveal that to her, not until she is signed up at least.

>>519660
Well if that's the case, nix my long speech and go with my Cao Cao inspired blurb.

>>519655
>>519633

You could also make the argument that being righteous and pursuing justice is also a means to an end in itself.

Your reputation is power and having a good reputation will facilitate your ambitions. But that ultimately you are a pragmatic individual and that these are not contradictory ideals.

"Of course," you tell Wang Yi without a second of hesitation. "When I started my career and the onset of the Yellow rebellion, I executed those who broke the law. There were many petty rebels that surrendered to me but in accordance with the law I executed them for I knew they would cause trouble in the future and to make an example out of them for future rebels. When I once caught hundreds of women that were aiding the rebels, I sent them all to prison to be judged accordingly.

I am not an evil man, but I am willing to accept that unscrupulous actions must be done to pacify the land. To be in my position and to not understand this would be foolish."

Wang Yi smiles broadly at your answer.

"Very well then," she says bowing. "Then I am yours to command. Let us hope we can all get along."

Wang Yi joins your cause.

>>519714
Winter and the end of the year 191 is soon upon you. You hear Sun Jian in the south has already began preparing for war and he sends you a letter to tell you that he shall begin attacking around the year 193 when all of his troops have been trained well and his weapons ready. Though you can let Sun Jian wait, it would be more impressive to him and the other warlords of the land if you could capture Runan and be ready to attack Liu Biao by the end of the next year.

What do you in preparations?

625 gold, purchases are free action
>recruit soldiers: 1 gold for 1
>improved spears: 1 gold for 1
>improved armor: 1 gold for 1
>improved crossbows: 1 gold for 1
>horses: 1 gold for 1
>rams: 100 gold for 1
>catapults: 100 gold for 1
>warships: 100 gold for 1 (can hold 300 men)

>>519724
Why don't we recruit an extra 500 men, marshal our forces on the border of Runan, and open up diplomatic negotiations.

We can try to have an audience with them and absorb their territory peacefully, and if they refuse then we will march on their lands and give battle.

>>519724

Find out if Wang Yi's family has any sisters/cousins.

>>519724
Warship and more men and crossbows by 100 each. Can we actively train them this turn? Have Hap Xian and Lu Fan scout and subterfuge in Runan again.

>>519724
1 warship
300 men
1 catapult

Are there any wandering bands we could perhaps bring to our service?

We could spend some money on hosting some manner of sporting/military competition and perhaps recruit higher caliber men to our service.

>>519724
I'd say train some men, get 100 spears, armor, and horses to bolster our elites, and the remaining 300 for 150 armor and crossbows to make some support. I say we send a bit of food to Runan's poor to build up respect and relations with them. That way when we march in, we can easily take control of the land once the soldiers are dealt with. Should have a surplus thanks to the farms, right?

>>519724
Purchase:
>200 improved armor
>350 Improved Spears
Then
>Train all men

>>519735
>Not planning on marrying the officer instead of some random bitch

>>519724
We need a catapult or two at the very least before we attack Runan.

>>519724

2 more warships
1 catapult
1 ram

Spend the rest of the season training the men on how to use these things, especially on the naval front. If we can't match Sun Jian's navy then a fat load of good it'll be only having 3 warships with landsmen at the helm.

Let's get better weapons and armor first if we can't win in quantity then we will win in quality.

>>519739
>Implying I'm not planning to have Hao Xian marry her sister so we can be brothers.

C'mon man, double weddings.

>>519724
1 Ram, 2 Catapult, 150 soldiers, 150 crossbow. Move the army to the Runan borders ready if diplomatic annexation fails.

>>519724
We need more men and we gotta get a siege weapon or two. I'm okay with any option that covers those two bases.

>>519724
1 Ram
1 Catapult
300 soldiers
100 improved armor.

Drill soldiers.

>>519724

I reckon we should get 500 more soldiers, as well as a catapult.

That or 400 more soldiers, 1 ram and 1 catapult

>>519739
>>Not planning on marrying the officer instead of some random bitch

Might be prudent to start our marriages off politically, such as Du Jis daughter perhaps

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>>519739
This and can we try to talk with Song Qian? I feel like he's the one dude we haven't hung out with yet.

Or Sun Jian's daughter.

Um. Everyone not voting to train soldiers, you DO realise trained soldiers are way, way better than untrained ones, right...?

>>519751
See, I'd be down with that, except anons tend to go REEEE HAREMS SHIT FUK U REEEEE whenever harems are brought up in quests.
Despite the fact due to Ancient China shit, harems are more or less accepted.

>>519758
Clearly we have a new Ambition, second only to ruling the lands.

An incredible threesome with Wang Yi and Dun Jian's best daughter.
>They spend the whole time getting more and more into it trying to outdo the other

>>519759
Whoa hold up

This is a good point. Marrying a cute daughter to successfully annex a territory sounds like a win win to me

>>519759
>Um. Everyone not voting to train soldiers, you DO realise trained soldiers are way, way better than untrained ones, right...?

Training is well and good, but we are constantly lacking in bodies. Further, having a larger for will make a greater impression in negotiations.

>>519761
>This is a good point. Marrying a cute daughter to successfully annex a territory sounds like a win win to me

Seriously this. To win out on annexing it, we need to look big and strong, elsewise we'd look the junior partner.

>>519759
No I don't think anyone has been particularly anti-harem in this quest.

In fact yeah, this should probably be a harem quest since its FOR ONCE thematically appropriate.

Unlike Gundam, Anything to do with shipsluts, Standard Fantasy quests, ASOIAF (unless you're ironborn), etc, etc

>>519765
Brothers are like limbs, wives and children are like clothing

in other words, fuck em

I seem to have forgotten that ancient China was not as monogamous as we are today.

>>519764
It won't work like that. Runan won't be gained peacefully through negotiations.

>>519762
I'd argue the opposite honestly, a force of 5000 elite tropps is substantially more intimidating than 10000 untrained villagers with shitty swords.

>>519764
>>519761
Ehh, I just want to marry Sun Jians daughter honestly.
Also Wang Yi, so if we can successfully harem it up, fuck yeah man.

>>519765
Give it a moment, man. If we start actively trying for a harem, people will REEEEE like crazy. Almost as bad as anti-waifufags.
I may just be traumatised from shitstorms in other quests.

>>519769
We have neither 10,000 nor 5,000 though. We have substantially less.

>>519769
I dunno man, HistoricalFiction did a pretty good job with a pseudo-harem though to be honest it's more like a series of trysts with a consistent slave/consort pussy on the side.

>>519769
Quantity>quality in many cases, not to say that we should neglect having quality troops, which we have a fair amount of solid men as it is, but we need some numbers to beef it up.

For instance, with the forces we have, having every man with us will barely be sufficient to campaign and leaves our base of operations toothless. We haven't got much to maneuver with for that matter.

>>519775
Last I checked we have just over 2000

We could REALLY Benefit from just having a bigger blob of untrained soldiers. Throw them into battle a few times and they'll improve through experience, and as long as we keep a good watch over them and lead them wisely then we don't have to worry so much about them being inexperienced

>>519724
Is recruiting volunteers still an option?

>>519769
>Give it a moment, man. If we start actively trying for a harem, people will REEEEE like crazy. Almost as bad as anti-waifufags.

Honestly, since it's setting appropriate I don't mind going for a harem though I'm not normally big on it. Waifufaggotry is just annoying as shit tho

>>519784
Nah man, there's this thing called "reputation" in the Three Kingdoms period.

The more reputable and caring for the soldiers you are, the more soldiers you can raise for levies and stuff.

Just using zerg tactics will just destroy your reputation as a lord and military leader.

Also the Yuan family loves using human wave tactics, make what you will with that knowledge.

>>519784
We're just shy of 3k men I think. Even a paltry few hundred men ain't much, but we sorely need it.

>>519769
That's because in most settings harems are forced as fuck/the MC has to be a total Gary Stu.

No girl in modern day America or another similar setting is down with her man fucking chicks on the side. Unless you're Hillary Clinton.

>>519775
>>519781
Look, I'll concede that quantity is a quality all its own, but come on.

We really have NO REASON not to spend personal time training the untrained troops we already have WHILE GETTING MORE.

We can do both, man. It's why we have officers. We can delegate.

>>519786
Oh, yeah, do this too. Spread the word that we're recruiting, get that nationalism going.

>>519788
I enjoy period-appropriate harems. Though I'd prefer we limit it to important characters
Such as Sun Ce and Wang Yi

>>519790
Yeah, at current our reputation is that fucker with generals doing the jobs of captains because we never have enough men.

>>519786
Yes, though the more you try the more diminishing returns.

>>519790
I'm not talking about using human wave tactics. I'm just saying we could benefit form having more men, cause I don't see us getting too far with only a few thousand soldiers.
>>519791
I agree, even getting just a few hundred more men would be a godsend

>>519795
We should probably give it 1 more try. Then we only do it again after we get more territory.

>>519786
>>519793

I still say hosting some kind of competition to bring in men wouldn't be bad. Perhaps offer champions a place in our elite guard or veterans, try and recruit as many others as possible.

>>519799
Still, there's the logistics to worry about. An army marches on its stomach and unless we have a large enough reserve of grain to maintain a standing army, it would require a lot of planning and waiting in order to get a large enough population base and farmland to sustain a large military force.

Now that's been said, we won't have to worry about logistics once we acquire Jiangxia since it's a massive breadbasket.

So I'm just spitballing ideas here, but if we could gain Runan feasibly by just using diplomacy, which may include a diplomatic marriage, wouldn't that be ideal?

We would gain an entire territory without having to lose a single soldier, we would likely gain a few officers out of it, and we'd get a free wife which we can have multiple of.

Is there an obvious downside to this, and is it not possible?

>>519808
It's possible.

It just depends on how many other people want to go down this route and who can come up with a clever way to diplo-annex Runan without coming off as a Yuan Shao-tier asshat.

>>519808
I'm okay with fucking Du Ji's daughter if it gets a territory and 5k soldiers and talented generals.

Take one for the team and all that.

>>519808
Except just marrying someone won't put it under our control? Seriously dude, we need to take it by force. We can be merciful and benevolent AFTER we beat them.

But let me remind you. Pol/Cha are our weakest stats. We are a WARRIOR. Not a diplomat.

Plus I want our first wife to be someone important, not some nameless girl we married for a potentially fruitless endeavor that isn't even guaranteed to work.

>>519808
Marry Hao Xian to them. I'd really rather not marrying just yet.

>post yfw du ji doesn't even have a daughter
>just a crossdressing son

Why are people assuming a single marriage will get us the territory immediately and with no fuss? That shit would take time. Which we are running low on. We've got other things to do, like Sun Jians plan. We can just marry his daughter afterwards if y'all want to fuck someone that bad.


>>519815
This. All of my this.

>>519808
>>519813
>>519815
>>519811

I think you are overestimating diplomatic marriages. They won't just give us their land cause we married their sixth daughter. Why would they? They's lose their sovereignty for what exactly?

Also CHA is not our best stat.

>>519815
Why would Du Ji marry his daughter to a subordinate of a lord who has less troops and possibly territory than him?

>>519819
>>519821

Good points.

Unless we marry Du Ji's eldest daughter, kill of any of his sons and other male heirs, and then off Du Ji himself, the likelihood of a clean and legitimate diplo-annex of Runan is going to be a snowballs chance in hell.

So we marry Wang Yi to Du Ji.

Then we kill Du Ji.

Then we dangle Wang Yi in front of Cao Cao.

His widow boner activates and now we're allied with the North.

>>519815

That would be pointless though.

Calling a small break here. I've been thinking two days of 4-5 hours is better than one day of 8 hour for each quest session. I'll run again tomorrow at 5:00 PST.

Try to come with a consensus on purchases and a plan by tomorrow.

>>519819

Well, the marriage alone wouldn't be enough, but the marriage could be used to seal a deal made with purpose of diploannex.

>>519826
I agree Arpeggio.

>>519831
We don't have time for this though even if it has a slim chance at working which it barely does.

>>519826
Has the Forces page been updated with current numbers? Same for Wang Yi

>>519826
Alright reposting a new plan for purchases:
>Recruit Volunteers
>Purchase 200 Improved Armor
>Purchase 200 Improved Spears
>Purchase 200 Soldiers
>Train everyone

>>519831
Problem: We're not playing a diplomancer. We are NOT good enough to play that way. Please do not attempt to get us to try.

>>519808
It wouldn't really be ours, it'd still be his. We'd just fuck his daughter. It is a possibility, but it'd increase the other guy's reknown over our own. Getting him to step down with a show of force and getting the people to want us to lead would work better for us.

>>519826
Tell us who the other two officers were. Unless they will show up later.

My proposal is

>defeat Du Ji on the field because Lu Fan says we have to show then we are better
>we don't need to slaughter 5k troops just kill 1000 or so then negotiate a marriage
>we marry the daughter or give daughter to Hao Xian
>give Hao Xian the charge of Ru Nan or Chen so he has authority

>>519839
>Problem: We're not playing a diplomancer. We are NOT good enough to play that way. Please do not attempt to get us to try.

Without intrigue or diploannex we're going to have to spend every bit of money we can get on recruits, because assuming we can beat him in the field, even 1000 men behind stone walls will keep whatever we have left over out for good, likely not even be able to properly cut the city off for siege.

>>519843
Sun Qian and Chen Dao.

>>519842
Hmm

So from what I understand, we aren't really in a position of power to just force Runan into submission through diplomatic marriage.


Perhaps we could keep diplomatic marriage on the table though if it will make it easier for us to annex the territory? The only other alternative I can see would be complete eradication of the enemy.

>>519847
So your solution is to insist marrying his daughter will solve every problem? here's a tip: It wont.

We CAN defeat him. It is quite literally not impossible to do so.

>>519846
I rather like this proposal. We should check with Hao Xian beforehand though. Don't want to force him into a marriage he wouldn't be comfortable with.

>>519847
We don't have time for diplomacy. The only way I am going to consider talking things out is if it will somehow get men on the inside to open the gates for our siege.

>>519858
He said he doesn't care for romance bullshit and will get a waifu for political reasons. Seems a good oppurtunity imho he gets some clan fame from marrying in to a family and then we get a trusted officer to be in charge of Ru Nan of Chen

>>519853
We don't need to eradicate, we just need to send a message. Get the common people to want to follow us, get the soldiers to see we mean business, and take down a officer or two in a duel. Spare those who surrender and let them guard runan with some guys shoring up the law there. If we do it soonish, we can have a shored up flank for Sun Jian's attack.

CAO CAO A HACK
LIU BEI A CRYBABY

>>519853
Or we can just defeat the lords there? or run them off? Seriously man, this isn't hard to the extent you're assuming it is. it'll be tough, sure, but not Lunatic Mode Naked Dark Souls No Hit Run level of hard.

>>519858
It's our right as his leader to marry him off.
Though yeah, we should mention it as a courtesy, at least.

>>519846
Might could do, but Du Ji would have to be left in control as our vassal, and her marrying Hao Xian wouldn't accomplish anything.

We're going to need more men in any case.

>>519868
The faster we conquer Runan, the better a position we'll be in for Sun Jians plans, since giving our soldiers time to rest between campaigns is quite important.

>The main city of Runan has stone walls around it but outside of that not many defense are present.

Since all they have is walls, can't we just get a bunch of catapults, spend a few days lobbing rocks out of their range and force them to come out to us?

I think we can take them with our current forces on the open field, and if it's after already being harassed by catapults for a few days and nights, its should be easy.

What about mercenaries?

>>519876
Indeed. Their forces are not that large and their men are likely under armored and trained. A decisive strike capturing their commander could work, especially if we lure them to us with a challenge.

>>519884
Well, we're outnumbered by about 2k, it'd be risky to simply assume their force is inferior.

>>519883
Will probably cost way more than just recruiting untrained soldiers and training them.

>>519899

Well, we are a bit short on time.

Profits from having Runan would earn back money spent on mercs pretty quick.

>>519893
In terms of generals, they are weaker than the ones we have faced so far, and they likely lack experience if they haven't gone on campaigns. There is also the matter of using strategy and smarts. 5000 soldiers aren't worth much in a ambush and if we undermine them by getting the commoners to respect us.

A straight on battle will not help us and will cost us man power. Instead, we need to get them out of their city and onto favorable grounds. Besides, if the city and soldiers are relatively untouched, then we have a strong defense back home as well as on the campaign.

>>519906
We've got 4 'turns' to capture Runan.

Let's agree that regardless of what we do we need more troops first and foremost.

So let's get soldiers en mass right now and train them next round.

>>519724
>Recruit 500 soldiers
>Purchase 1 Catapult

>Action
Recruit Volunteers

Can we all agree on this?

The biggest problem is you guys want everything. You want all the numbers all of them trained every improved weapon. The at the same time you guys want more improved farms. Stop focusing on multiple things OP has said more actions means less results.

Lets recruit 500 soldiers outright and train them. Next turn we recruit another 500 or so then call for volunteers on a campaign against Ru Nan. We should have 4000 or so, we challenge Du Ji on a field battle. If he holes up in his city then we just take the surronding villages, siege him, and keep getting popular support until he comed out to fight or opens up negotiations.

>>519916
I'll go with this. Top priority is more troops and training them.

>>519916
Add on training troops, and I can back that. No real reason we can't do both imo.

>>519916
I'll go ahead with this. We are going to need at least two rounds of prep. And all of those things need to be done.

>>519916
Yes please!

>>519913
>A straight on battle will not help us and will cost us man power. Instead, we need to get them out of their city and onto favorable grounds. Besides, if the city and soldiers are relatively untouched, then we have a strong defense back home as well as on the campaign.

Might could do to get someone to stir up bandits coinciding with our invasion in order to tie up some of their troops, or at least draw some into ambushes.

>>519916

Yep, bodies are what we need. Agreed.

>>519939
Not even bandits are required. Send out our smarter buddies to the Runan country side. Spread word of us, our deeds, and maybe a hint of our desire to help the people. When we are ready to march, we state our claim firmly to Runan's city. If they do nothing, we go about, deny them resources by getting the peasants to deny them. While we gallant around, they do nothing but hide behind their walls like cowards. Draw them out, get them mad, then mabush them and take out their leaders. If they aren't dead, use them to negotiate.

Is this a horrid idea ,should we decide on siege rather than negotiation
>have 20-50 of our top personel move there weeks before we invade
>have them mingle with guards and find any that are not satisfied with their ruler and turn them to us
>possibly have them assassinate heads of the guards to throw army into confusion
>Have them enlist to join the garrison
>when we invade have them and the troops they turned open the door and let us in
The enemy's lower rank heads of the guard are dead, the enemy is defecting from within, and we can stroll right thru the front door

also, as far as our equipment and men go I would like to propose this

>300 elites on horse with improved armor
>spears to elites
>crossbows to a dedicated unit of veterans

>>519944
Not required, but couldn't hurt having along if we can manage it without too much work.

But yes, undermining Du Ji on the homefront in any way will be advantageous. I'd say we're best off taking the place over intact as possible.

>>519951
Pretty much. Once we have Runan, we can refortify both places, perhaps pump some money into our place. As it is, it borders a few growing names so fortifying it and building it up may be good once we claimed more land. Could even get some volunteer soldiers from our victory if we play smart.

>>519976
Well, considering Runan is much more populous than Chen, we should be able to raise up a decent force much quicker. Beyond that, we shouldn't have too much trouble absorbing some of the former forces of Du Ji if we play our cards right.

>>519984
Yup, Runan supplies the manpower and supplies, and Chen becomes a sort of hub and staging point for our interactions with other groups. Hell, considering the size of the area, we could turn it into a fortress state. Enough farms to keep the place going during a siege, some layered walls, maybe some fortified buildings to serve as ambush spots and militia gearing spots. Would be tough, but could work well.

>>519994
Well, considering location we'd do well to throw a fair bit into fortifying Chen after taking Runan, and speaking of militia that would be a solid idea to get going, it'd also give us a bit better of a pool to recruit from.

>>520015
Could be worth it to spend a seasons worth of gold to start on. Set up training schools with some Veterans as teachers, have the people learn the basics to defend themselves, and give them basic discipline. Not only would it help with the training, but working together would make infiltration that much harder, since it would deepen the bonds among the people.

>>520020
Oh. Fuck. I just remembered from last thread.

People were talking about how if we build facilities we can attract better officer candidates. Like Libraries for high INT officers, Training schools for high WAR/LEAD, and those sorts of things.

Should we start building a facility or two soon to attract better warriors? I mean, Cao Cao, Yuan Shao, and those sorts are busy grabbing up the best of the best, we should hurry up and start getting better and better officers ourselves soon.

>>520022
Pretty much. Alongside that, make Chen simply a place for people to be drawn to. With the wine and location we could set up plenty of inns which can draw in officers and people looking for a place to settle.

Really, I am seeing the place shaping up like it's leader. Seems pretty open and friendly, even is if you return the respect. The moment you try shit? 4 people have blades pointed at your throat.

>>520020
>>520022
>>520026

Well, a military school or something like it would work for both, wouldn't be a bad investment. Putting a small number of of veterans into organizing militias and staffing the facility would get decent returns.

Wine+inns is natural as well.

I want wufags to leave

>>519724
>>519916
Agreed. We need more men ASAP

Guys, don't forget we now have Wang Yi and her family connections. We can use her to undermine Runan from within. Feed Du Ji misinformation, lure him out of the city and assassinate. Then, while his underlings vie for power, swoop in and "restore order".

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>we could have recruited Chen Dao and he could have been our Zhao Yun
fucking women, nothing but trouble

So build a military academy next month?

>>520283
Academy/milita training spot. I'd say next month with Wang Yi's help in getting the people to side with us we go for Runan. Once we get back we make the academy, pump some money into it, and a number of vets to serve as instructors for the milita. After that, we could make inns to bring in people.

>>520283
>>520285
That sounds like it could be helpful, but
We should keep in mind that soldiers can only gain so much experience from training alone

>>520333
yes, but the goal is not so much training the soldiers we have, but make it so that the populace itself is trained. It'd allow for better organization of troops during a draft, a competent milita in case of an invasion, and a way to bring a bit more unity to our people considering the fact that many of our people are not born here. Considering those to the north of us, this can certainly help us out. It would also cut down time we need to drill up soldiers to trained so we can focus on other things.

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Niggers I just made a new combined arms strategy and I think your gonna love it, lemme see if I can draw and explain.

Right so that should work.

For reference the red is spear infantry, the yellow is crossbows and the blue is the command unit. All of these are supposed to work with about 100 men, so for us it's pretty perfect. They also compliment each other in various ways and can shift from one to the other seamlessly. I'll do my best to explain what they do and how they work.

The in the middle is the baseline teardrop formation, the goal of this formation is to deploy them in staggered intervals to break up enemy formations and deal maximum damage doing so, it is designed to protect the ranged units inside from charges, other ranged units and artillery by offering two ranks of infantry protection on all sides except the back as well as plenty of room to move around. If a part of the infantry is about to be penetrated, they can shit their lines to the point of impact with reserves from the back, as well as having the crossbowen shoot over their shoulders. If the enemy successfully breaks through then the unit will fire/collapse on the incursion or shift into another formation as seen. This strategy is theoretically most effective in the plains as the teardrop requires relatively open spaces to work properly.

The strategy on the left is called the grinder, the reason is simply because it's just a more aggressive version of the teardrop, but for a different reason. Because of its design, preferably the grinder doesn't move forward, rather it shreds the living shit out of anything in front of it. It has increased ranks of spears, ranged units with less room to move around but still enough, and openings in the back. However what happens when a back attack happens is quite special, unlike the teardrop in where a rear attack is practically suicide for various reasons, here in the grinder the enemy is broken up by the rear guard and forced into the funnels of ranged units. There the ranged units pull back into the center and hold their ground and fire point blank while two ranks of infantry from the front line turn around and hold ranks. Forcing the enemy to get fucked trying to kill the ranged units or retreat. The only real kind of weakness is the succeptibility to ranged and artillery. But that can easily be accounted for by moving into the teardrop. This type of formation can theoretically form in most types of terrain without compromising on effectiveness to much.

The third formation is dubbed 'jewel'. Spear pockets on the surface with internal ranged support, internal ranged pockets with spear support. Breaks up any formation and can form in any situation and still preform great. If a shit commander is attacking this thing good luck. It's basically the best of both worlds, it can move and hold and do all sorts of shit the others really can't. If the enemy can get good solid shots off on this formation then that would be its weakness.

>>520359
Wow I wrote a lot of shit.

>>520359
>this is how Bai Qi explained his battle formations to his troops

>>520448
>I'm not even done yet
Is what I would like to say

But if you really want to I can draw up an overall stratagem including cavalry for various stituaions. I even have some ideas for siege warfare.