Spoiler - Camellia / 동백꽃 / Camellia : Mastering the Three Kingdoms as Alice (2025)

After eliminating the traitor Dong Zhuo and rising to the position of Grand Commandant, So Camellia ruthlessly eradicated all of Dong Zhuo's remaining followers in Chang'an. She mercilessly exterminated the Dong clan without discrimination, including children and the elderly, just as she had led the annihilation of the He clan. At age twenty-four, her hands were already stained with the blood of two family lines.

Whilst people whispered about divine punishment awaiting her, none dared voice such thoughts in her presence. The brave had already perished under Dong Zhuo's rule, leaving only trembling followers. Several concerned individuals submitted a petition criticising Camellia's excessive punishments, fearing they might become future targets. Emperor Xian tacitly approved Camellia's actions by ignoring these petitions, which gradually decreased in number.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao, who had taken the Prince of Hongnong, observed the situation cautiously. Yuan Shao, Yuan Shu, and Liu Biao also watched carefully before beginning to check and attack each other. During this period of divided rule by various warlords, the true capabilities of different heroes emerged, with some rising above expectations and others falling short of their reputations.

Despite public perception of her cruel methods, Camellia handled the aftermath with flexibility. Whilst she eliminated all of Dong Zhuo's blood relations, she only removed others who showed explicit hostility. The widespread negative reaction to her actions stemmed from the resulting power vacuum in court, as Dong Zhuo had previously filled positions with his supporters.

Camellia focused on finding politically neutral officials with no connections to Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, or others to fill the vacant positions. Jao worried about her workaholic nature and delivered messages between her and Lily, who waited for her at home.

Following Cao Cao's significant defeat by Camellia's forces, other warlords like Yuan Shao, Yuan Shu, Gongsun Zan, and Liu Biao remained cautious about advancing on Chang'an. Camellia used this time to carefully reorganise the capital, methodically placing trusted individuals in positions of power, though many positions remained unfilled.

Camellia's daily routine in Chang'an began at 5 AM. She took her morning bath with only Lily permitted to attend her. She practised archery with 100 daily shots split across morning (30), noon (30), and evening (40). She studied languages and read extensively, having memorised the Four Books, Five Classics, and Records of the Grand Historian.

At 7 AM, she attended court at the Great Hall to review regional petitions concerning disasters, development, harvests, prices, legal matters, construction, and national events. Emperor Xian approved all of Camellia's appointments.

Camellia interviewed new officials with Emperor Xian in the afternoons. Though her position as Grand Commandant traditionally focused on military matters, she influenced appointments under the pretext of being the emperor's guard. She took simple meals and trained in martial arts, often sparring with Lü Bu.

Li Jue and Guo Si, former supporters of Dong Zhuo from Yangzhou, sought Jia Xu's help to secure their positions in Camellia's government. Jia Xu advised them to demonstrate their usefulness by gathering Dong Zhuo's remaining supporters.

Ma Teng and Han Sui arrived with their armies at not far from Chang'an. Camellia assigned Li Jue and Guo Si to investigate their intentions. Through Jia Xu's counsel, Li Jue and Guo Si consolidated the remaining Yangzhou forces, leading to Camellia granting them favourable positions.

Camellia recruited Hua Tuo, a renowned physician, to maintain secrecy about her gender. Though Hua Tuo initially declined positions from both Emperor Xian and Camellia, she arranged for his family's relocation to Chang'an to secure his services.

During an exceptionally hot summer, Camellia visited training grounds where Li Jue and Guo Si's units trained rigorously. She ordered an early end to training and distributed ice from the Lingyin storage to their units. Background info revealed that Wang Yun's rumoured plans to massacre Yangzhou people had led to Li Jue and Guo Si's rebellion, resulting in the devastating Sanbo Rebellion.

In winter of Chuping 3 (192 CE), Camellia gathered her inner circle to discuss military strategy. They chose to attack Yang Province first while maintaining vigilance against Yi Province.

Camellia orchestrated a military strategy involving Lü Bu with his troops. Yi Mong and Wang Fang, who served under Dong Zhuo, were killed in battle by Ma Teng's 18-year-old son, Ma Chao. The news of these defeats spread through Chang'an as part of Camellia's plan to make her enemies overconfident.

The final battle saw Lü Bu, riding his Red Hare horse, reduce Ma Teng and Han Sui's army from 100,000 to 30,000 soldiers. When Ma Teng and Han Sui fled to Chang'an seeking help from Li Jue and Guo Si, they discovered their betrayal, finding their collaborators' heads displayed on the city walls.

Camellia offered Ma Teng and Han Sui a choice: surrender and help stabilise Yangzhou against barbarian threats or face execution, with Ma Chao remaining as a hostage. Despite Ma Chao's protests, calling Camellia a 'geisha's brother', Ma Teng accepted the terms. Camellia then removed Li Jue and Guo Si from liaison duties, appointed them to maintain Chang'an's security, and remained at a pass awaiting Lü Bu's forces.

Lü Bu's forces returned and were greeted by Camellia in a hastily arranged meeting room. Lü Bu was surprised to find Camellia waiting, as he hadn't expected this. Camellia teased him about his reaction.

In private conversation, Lü Bu expressed possessive concerns about young recruits around Camellia, specifically mentioning Ma Chao. He revealed he had instructed Li Jue and Guo Si to eliminate potential young talents before they could catch Camellia's attention. Camellia strongly objected to this interference with recruitment.

Camellia explained her strategic thinking regarding Ma Deng and Han Sui's relationship in Xiliang. She clarified that taking only Ma Chao, rather than both sons, was deliberate - she anticipated future conflict between Ma Deng and Han Sui that could be exploited.

The discussion shifted to the topic of heirs. Lü Bu declared he would treat any child Camellia adopted as his own, reminding her of their previous agreement when overthrowing Dong Zhuo: Camellia would become his in exchange for being her sword. Lü Bu insisted that only he should father Camellia's children, threatening to kill anyone who discovered her secret.

Liu Yan received news that Sun Jue, Ma Deng and Han Sui were defeated. Though Liu Yan considered declaring independence, claiming divine mandate from the Supreme Deity, he learned that his sons were executed in Chang'an. Upon reading that he would be stripped of his positions and punished, Liu Yan collapsed.

During a horseback conversation, Camellia explained to Lü Bu that she executed Liu Yan's children rather than using them as hostages because Liu Yan desired the imperial throne, unlike Ma Deng and Han Shou who merely sought to lead wolf packs. She noted Liu Yan's particular favour for his third son.

In Mianzhu, the wealthy regional leader Gan Ning, known as "Gold Sail Bandit" due to his silk trade wealth, was drinking in a brothel. Whilst walking home drunk, he encountered and duelled with a masked man who smelled of oil. During their fight, multiple fires broke out across Mianzhu. The masked man fled with other masked figures as the city burned completely.

Liu Yan barely escaped the burning Mianzhu and fainted upon hearing of its destruction. After relocating to Chengdu, his health deteriorated, and he died whilst repeatedly referring to a Chinese deity. Liu Yan's strategist Lady Noh and her child belonged to the Wudoumi religious group, who had mistakenly interpreted heavenly signs as favouring Liu Yan.

At Liu Yan's funeral, numerous crows appeared, considered an ill omen. Lady Noh's child reported a dream vision of a noble figure on a black horse descending to Yizhou. The Wudoumi religious group sought to align themselves with Yizhou's next ruler.

Following Liu Yan's death, his forces split between native Yi Province officials and his retainers. The retainers proposed making Liu Yan's mentally unstable third son, Liu Mou, the successor. Gan Ning opposed this plan, warning of depleted food supplies and imminent attack from Camellia's forces.

Camellia's army, led by Lü Bu, captured Chengdu. Camellia ordered Liu Mou's execution. When Wu Xian faced execution, her brother Wu Yi begged for her life. Camellia spared Wu Xian and appointed Wu Yi as Inspector of Yi Province, despite this exceeding her authority as Grand Commandant.

During the invasion, Gan Ning led 800 followers in resistance but became entranced upon seeing Camellia and declared her his "true lord." A celebratory feast followed at the magistrate's mansion. Later that night, Lü Bu insisted on sleeping in Camellia's chamber for protection, promising not to cross a drawn line. After Camellia fell asleep, Lü Bu approached her bed and joined her despite his promise.

The following morning, Wu Yi and Wu Xian visited Camellia. Wu Yi requested that his widowed sister Wu Xian serve Camellia's wife Lily as a maid. Instead, Camellia offered to make Wu Xian her adopted sister. This arrangement made Wu Yi Camellia's sworn brother.

Finally, Camellia met with Lady Noh and her child. Lady Noh declared Camellia an incarnation of the Heavenly Emperor based on a divine prophecy. Her child promised to bring the Ba territory's ethnic minorities under Camellia's control. Info dump noted that the Five Pecks of Rice Sect was a Taoist organisation that collected rice for entry and used it to treat the sick, whilst prohibiting drinking, killing, theft and licentiousness.

Lü Bu became angry when he learnt that Camellia had welcomed the two siblings as family. He particularly objected to Camellia giving her surname to the female sibling. Camellia explained she needed to do this to bring Wu Xian to her side, as taking her as a concubine was not possible. When Lü Bu suggested arranging a marriage for Wu Xian, Camellia noted the political considerations involved in arranging a marriage for the new Shu governor's sister.

A merchant arrived at Camellia's residence with over a hundred boxes of silk. The merchant revealed himself as Gan Ning, who controlled the silk routes in the region. He offered all the silk as tribute and requested to serve under Camellia, citing his undefeated record in naval battles and success in subduing pirates. Camellia accepted him into her service, noting her lack of naval commanders. This displeased Lü Bu, who had been enjoying selecting silks(/his date) with Camellia.

As Grand Commandant, Camellia discussed bringing Gan Ning to Chang'an. She assigned Yue Jin to oversee Gan Ning's training, despite their previous hostile interaction during the fire incident. Under this arrangement, Gan Ning needed to request any meetings with Camellia through Yue Jin.

During a military council meeting, Wang Bi suggested conquering Jing Province. The meeting demonstrated an unusually open atmosphere where officers could share opinions freely regardless of rank. Gan Ning volunteered Yi Province's troops for the campaign, leading to a confrontation with Ma Chao, who mocked Yi Province's surrender. Yue Jin and Wang Bi had to physically restrain them.

Camellia decided against invading Jing Province, citing poor timing due to the presence of Yuan Shu, Yuan Shao in Ji Province, and Cao Cao. She also noted that Yang Province and Yi Province needed time to establish stronger trust. Wu Yi, the Governor of Yi Province, expressed concern about Liu Biao's unusual lack of response to their military movements.

In Jingzhou, Liu Biao learnt that Camellia's army, led by herself and Lü Bu, was heading to Yizhou. He struggled with whether to assist Liu Yan, but news arrived of Liu Yan's death and the burning of his capital. As Liu Biao contemplated military action, he received reports that Yuan Shu, the Administrator of Nanyang under Liu Biao's jurisdiction, had raised an army in alliance with Sun Jian from Jiangdong. This development prevented Liu Biao from interfering with Camellia's activities in Yizhou, as he now needed to defend against Yuan Shu and Sun Jian's forces. Liu Biao believed this timing was orchestrated by Camellia, though no direct evidence was presented.

Yuan Shu received an unexpected visit from Sun Jian, with whom he previously had a strained relationship. Sun Jian proposed they attack Liu Biao together, suggesting their combined forces could easily defeat him. Though Yuan Shu was initially suspicious of Sun Jian's sudden change in attitude, Sun Jian explained that So Camellia had previously taken his second son hostage and stationed troops to monitor him, but recently withdrew those forces.

Sun Jian revealed that Camellia withdrew her forces because she planned to attack Yi Province. Yuan Shu, unaware that Camellia had already conquered Yi Province, agreed to Sun Jian's proposal to attack Liu Biao, believing they could take advantage of the situation. While Yuan Shu verbally agreed to split the gains equally, he privately planned to take everything for himself and eventually eliminate Sun Jian.

In a separate location, a well-trained military unit marched across a plain. A messenger delivered news to Zhao Yun, who informed Jin-jin that Sun Jian had attacked Jing Province alongside Yuan Shu. This successful outcome fulfilled their mission, as Jin-jin and Zhao Yun had previously met with Sun Jian to arrange his meeting with Yuan Shu.

Jin-jin worried about Sun Jian potentially being manipulated by the cunning Yuan Shu, as Sun Jian's continued presence in Jiangdong remained beneficial to their cause. Jin-jin, who had handled multiple meetings with Sun Jian, complained about the long journeys to Jiangdong and expressed hope that someone else would take over these diplomatic missions in the future.

In late summer of 193, So Camellia returned victoriously to Chang'an, having conquered both Yangzhou and Yizhou in a remarkably short time. Under Jia Xu's leadership, Chang'an had prospered according to Camellia's plans, with well-maintained streets and multi-storey buildings. The city's atmosphere was vibrant, contrasting sharply with the severe food shortages of previous years.

Ma Chao and Gan Ning, visiting Chang'an for the first time, were overwhelmed by the grand reception. Despite their own prestigious backgrounds, they were particularly struck by the imperial palace's magnificence. Gan Ning, who had previously questioned Liu Bei's perpetual dissatisfaction in Shu, finally understood the source of that restlessness when confronted with the palace's grandeur.

Camellia approached the Emperor with her army, displaying a polished appearance that inspired awe among onlookers. The 12-year-old Emperor, draped in golden silk, personally came out to welcome her. Camellia reported the defeat of Liu Bei's forces with characteristic detachment. When the Emperor suggested holding a celebratory banquet that day, Camellia declined, stating she had been away from home too long. The Emperor rescheduled for the following day, which Camellia accepted.

During their interaction, Camellia approached the Emperor on the steps - a breach of protocol that silenced the assembled officials. She took the Emperor's hand, noting how much he had grown during her absence. Camellia then proposed taking the Emperor to a temporary palace in autumn, which he eagerly accepted.

Lü Bu, who could hear their quiet exchange due to his sharp hearing, observed the interaction with disapproval. The text noted that Camellia had previously won over various individuals including Zhang Rang, Dong Zhuo, and maintained careful control over her relationships, including with Diaochan.

Camellia returned to her mansion in Chang'an after several months away. She was greeted by Lily and Sun Quan at the main gate, with Sun Quan having grown noticeably taller during her absence.

Lü Bu accompanied Camellia home and stayed for the evening meal after Lily's invitation. Camellia introduced Wu Xian, the sister of the future Yizhou governor, as her sworn sibling who would stay until finding a place to remarry. Lily, introducing herself as Diaochan, welcomed Wu Xian warmly, but Lü Bu suggested Wu Xian dine separately in the western annexe due to travel fatigue and unfamiliar company.

The dinner with Lü Bu concluded in a relatively pleasant atmosphere, with casual conversation about recent events. Contrary to expectations based on his temperament, Lü Bu rose promptly from the table without lingering. When Camellia expressed surprise at his early departure, Lü Bu acknowledged being an uninvited guest and left.

After his departure, Sun Quan asked Camellia for war stories, noting that Lü Bu's tales centred solely on individual combat. Camellia shared details about capturing Ma Chao and burning Yi Province's capital, explaining how they exploited confusion to advance and achieved a bloodless victory following the Yi Province administrator's unexpected death.

Sun Quan, a hostage from Jiangdong, experienced conflicting feelings about his position. While missing his family, including his parents and siblings, he feared losing his privileged status in Camellia's household, where he received the finest education, material goods, and exclusive access to the Grand Commandant.

Camellia and Lily later discussed political matters, including Camellia's upcoming trip to the temporary palace with the Emperor. They discussed Camellia's methods of controlling the Emperor through isolation and calculated shows of favour. Lily suggested Sun Quan accompany Camellia to strengthen his relationship with the Emperor.

The next morning, Camellia arrived at her spotlessly maintained office in the imperial palace. Jia Xu reported on events during her absence, including a concerning visit from Dong Cheng, father of one of the Emperor's three consorts. They discussed the political implications of the consorts' families, noting none had direct ties to Camellia.

They also addressed the White Rice Cult in Yi Province, which had declared Camellia an incarnation of the Supreme Deity of the Dark Heaven. While Jia Xu worried about potential religious conflict backlash, Camellia viewed it as a low-risk political move. They discussed managing new subordinates Ma Chao and Gan Ning, with particular focus on cultivating Ma Chao's loyalty, who should have served under Liu Bei.

Camellia organised an imperial excursion to a villa east of Chang'an. The group included Emperor Xian, Lü Bu, armed soldiers, and Sun Quan, who served as the emperor's companion. Camellia had been limiting Sun Quan's movements in Chang'an to ensure his safety, which was vital for maintaining an alliance with Sun Jian, the recently appointed Governor of Yang Province.

During the banquet, Left Commandant Cai Yong performed on the guqin while drinking. Camellia followed his performance by playing the instrument upside down and singing. Lü Bu initiated applause, followed by Camellia's subordinates, though other officials hesitated to join. Camellia then suggested that Emperor Xian reward Cai Yong with a marquis title, resulting in his appointment as Marquis of Gaoyang. When Camellia enquired about Cai Yong's historical records compilation, he mentioned his widowed daughter's assistance, which sparked Camellia's interest in his eldest daughter, Cai Yan.

The gathering was disrupted by an assassination attempt. Arrows struck at Camellia and Emperor Xian, with one grazing Camellia's cheek. A guard-turned-assassin attacked Camellia with a sword but was subdued by Lü Bu. The captured assassins revealed their arrows were poisoned, though Camellia calmly stated her immunity to poison. Emperor Xian showed clear admiration for Camellia throughout these events, with Sun Quan observing their interactions.

Zhang Rang had administered poisons to Camellia since childhood, resulting in her immunity to most toxins, though not complete invulnerability. The assassins were identified as subordinates of Dong Cheng. Despite Dong Cheng's denial and Lady Dong's plea for her father's life, Emperor Xian declared Dong Cheng a traitor. It was later revealed that Camellia had orchestrated the assassination attempt by forging letters in Dong Cheng's handwriting to his subordinates.

After returning to Chang'an, Emperor Xian summoned Hua Tuo, the imperial physician, to treat Camellia's wounds under Lü Bu's close supervision (Lü Bu's attitude annoyed Hua Tuo deeply). At home, Lily carefully tended to Camellia's wound until it healed without scarring, much to Emperor Xian's relief. Though Dong Cheng was executed as a traitor, Camellia argued against executing three generations of his family and spared Lady Dong's life, despite Jia Xu's concerns about potential revenge.

Yue Jin visited Camellia with honey-preserved jujubes from his mother for Camellia's recovery. Their relationship included Camellia regularly sending medicinal herbs to Yue Jin's mother and dispatching royal physicians to monitor her health. Subsequently, Camellia proposed appointing Cai Yan to an official government position, an unprecedented move as no private family's woman had previously held a similar position. Cai Yong discussed the appointment with his daughter, who accepted despite potential difficulties.

Court officials protested Cai Yan's appointment, suggesting a noble title instead. When Han Bin objected about breaking precedent, Camellia exposed his acceptance of bribes and substitution of inferior materials in the Emperor's dragon fan. Han Bin committed suicide after requesting mercy for his family.

The officials fell silent following Han Bin's death, realising Camellia could transform minor infractions into capital offences. Shisun Rui, a respected official considered for the Three Excellencies position, diplomatically praised Camellia's contributions while denouncing Dong Zhuo as a traitor comparable to Wang Mang. Camellia spared the remaining officials for Shisun Rui's sake but issued a warning about future transgressions.

Lü Bu understood that Camellia saw herself reflected in Cai Yan, supporting her career because Camellia couldn't openly pursue such opportunities as a woman. He thinks about Diaochan who maintains a strong claim over Camellia despite her gentle appearance. Thus, Lü Bu headed to Camellia's residence early, curious about Diaochan's thoughts on the Cai Yan situation.

Lü Bu visited Camellia's residence during her absence, having been previously granted permission to enter. He sought to speak with Diaochan and they conversed at an appropriate distance with others present.

When Lü Bu questioned Diaochan about rumours of Camellia having a concubine named Cai Yan, Diaochan remained composed and denied the rumours. She declared that "doubt requires strength" and that her absolute faith in Camellia was the one thing she could not surrender.

Camellia had discovered Han Bin's corruption by chance. She used this discovery effectively, managing the situation through fear and violence as she had done with Dong Cheng. Gan Ning, a former silk merchant, had informed her of Han Bin's embezzlement.

At Camellia's residence, Lü Bu awaited her return in the main hall with Lily. Camellia arranged for Gan Ning to teach Sun Quan in naval warfare and martial arts. During their first meeting, Sun Quan impressed Gan Ning with his enthusiasm and knowledge of Confucian principles, despite Gan Ning's usual dislike of children.

In April, So Camellia's mansion in Chang'an was adorned with white peach blossoms and crabapple flowers, earning nicknames like White Cloud Temple. While grand outside, the mansion initially lacked proper management until Lily's return. Lily transformed it using Zhang Rang's treasures and new gifts, adding golden incense burners and silk decorations.

Wu Xian received warnings from Lily about Lü Bu's visits. Meanwhile, Cao Cao reacted negatively to Camellia's growing influence over multiple regions.

During a banquet at Zhang Ji's home welcoming Ma Chao to Chang'an, the officers discussed Camellia's achievements, including killing Dong Zhuo and becoming Grand Commandant at a young age. After the banquet, Ma Chao fasted for several days before challenging Camellia to a duel at her mansion. Ma Chao challenged Camellia to test her before submitting to her authority. Despite his weakened state, Ma Chao fought impressively but lost when Camellia's blade stopped near his neck. He pledged loyalty to her, and she acknowledged him as "the future's greatest swordsman."

The day concluded with Lily discussing the duel's impact with Camellia, revealing the Emperor's interest and Lü Bu's mixed reactions. Lily declined Camellia's offer to reclaim her identity as Dan Lily, preferring to maintain secrecy until the land was stable.

Jao flew from Chang'an to deliver a letter to Mistress Geum at Cao Cao's residence. Upon finding Mistress Geum, she read Camellia's letter about her well-being and memories of Ding Yuan. She burned it immediately and whispered to Jao that Tao Qian, Governor of Xuzhou, had killed Cao Cao's father and brothers, and Cao Cao was enraged by this.

Then, Cao Cao entered Mistress Geum's quarters and discussed several matters with her:

• He proposed having her oversee the education of his eldest son, Cao Ang
• He mentioned that Cao Ang was currently being raised by his formal wife, Lady Ding
• He made veiled threats about Mistress Geum's safety and questioned how Camellia would react to her death

During their conversation, Mistress Geum revealed that she had previously attempted suicide upon hearing of Camellia becoming Grand Commandant, leaving scars on her arms. She had done this fearing she might be used against Camellia.

After spotting a black feather, Cao Cao grew suspicious, though Mistress Geum and Housekeeper Wang claimed it came from a discarded fan. Cao Cao, who had banned crows in Xuzhou due to their connection to Camellia, later ordered Xiahou Yuan to shoot down a black bird seen flying overhead. Though hit, only blood traces were found when soldiers searched for its body.

Guo Si attended a tavern gathering organised by Wang Bi, having defended his association with Li Jue to his wife. Military officers Li Jue, Zhao Yun, and Ma Chao were present. Two conflicts arose: between Guo Si and Ma Chao (who viewed Guo Si as his father's enemy), and between Ma Chao and Gan Ning (due to Gan Ning's bandit background).

Wang Bi attempted to ease tensions by discussing So Camellia's cypress leaf wine and praising the officers' appearances. Gan Ning revealed he had special access to So Camellia's residence to teach Sun Quan, while studying to become a general. Only Zhao Yun and Yue Jin shared similar access privileges, though Lü Bu treated the residence as his own despite not owning it.

Jao returned to Chang'an and informed Camellia about Cao Song's death during the summer. Camellia expressed concern about this development, noting that while many had lost their fathers, only Cao Cao had responded with mass killings. Jao had been wounded by an arrow but concealed this from Camellia.

They discussed the Xuzhou Massacre, which would showcased Cao Cao's brutality and coincided with the Empress' death. This event would have helped Liu Bei rise to become an opposition leader after he protected Xuzhou refugees, leading to Tao Qian recognising him as Xuzhou's rightful leader.

Camellia controlled key regions as the Central Plains' hegemon but faced rivalry from Liu Bei (likely the Queen), Cao Cao, Yuan Shao, and Liu Biao. The political landscape featured Yuan Shao and Cao Cao allied against Yuan Shu, Tao Qian, and Gongsun Zan's coalition. Camellia planned to rescue Mistress Geum, who lived under surveillance in Cao Cao's territory, during the upcoming Xuzhou conflict. Despite being a protagonist alongside the Queen, Camellia acknowledged that success wasn't guaranteed, noting Liu Bei's story ended with Shu's collapse within two generations.

Wu Yi became governor of Yi Province, bringing stability through cooperation with Chang'an. When Cao Cao invaded Xu Province to avenge his father's death against Tao Qian, Camellia decided to intervene to prevent civilian casualties.

Before departing, Camellia ordered Yue Jin to remain in Chang'an to care for his gravely ill mother, rather than join the expedition. Though Yue Jin insisted he could maintain focus during battle, Camellia emphasised that he should be present for his mother's final moments if they were to come. She reminded him they would have many future opportunities to work together, as they had done throughout their relationship.

As Camellia prepared for departure, she left her estate management to Lily. Meanwhile, Cao Cao's campaign against Tao Qian progressed swiftly, capturing numerous cities. The Prince of Hongnong remained under restricted conditions in Yanzhou, growing frustrated with his continued confinement under Cao Cao's protection.

Cao Cao, after capturing ten castles, was halted at Danxian by Tao Qian's resistance. In frustration, he ordered the massacre of civilians in Xuzhou and neighbouring counties, resulting in over a million deaths.

Camellia confronted Cao Cao with her army, including Lü Bu. Though Cao Cao escaped, Camellia recaptured half of his conquered cities. Her young commander Ma Chao successfully baited Cao Cao's cousins into an ambush, forcing them to retreat with heavy losses.

After a series of strategic manoeuvres, Lü Bu and Ma Chao were caught in Cao Cao's trap during a reconnaissance mission. Despite their mutual antagonism, they fought their way out together, though many of their soldiers perished.

The conflict culminated in a personal duel between Camellia and Cao Cao, which proved to be a ruse to lead her into an archer ambush. Lü Bu intercepted the arrows, and the subsequent battle forced Cao Cao's retreat.

In late 193 CE, Gongsun Zan killed Liu Yu, the Governor of You Province, by burning him alive after defeating his forces with elite soldiers. This shocking event influenced Liu Bei and his brothers to consider aiding Tao Qian against Cao Cao. Camellia's commanders, including Zhao Yun, were disturbed by the brutality, while Camellia herself analysed the political implications, predicting Yuan Shao would ultimately defeat Gongsun Zan.

Meanwhile, agents claiming to work for Camellia infiltrated Cao Cao's residence to rescue Mistress Geum. During the escape attempt, Prince of Hongnong, angered at being left behind, stabbed Mistress Geum. Though mortally wounded, she escaped but died shortly after. As her body was being transported, the group encountered Liu Bei's forces, leading to a confrontation with Guan Yu when he grew suspicious of their behaviour. During the ensuing battle, one soldier attempted to escape with Mistress Geum's body and Housekeeper Wang whilst others engaged Guan Yu in combat.

In 194 CE, Liu Bei and Tian Kai arrived in Xuzhou to aid Tao Qian, only to find So Camellia's forces had already engaged Cao Cao. After a lukewarm reception from Tao Qian, Tian Kai departed. Liu Bei, no longer able to serve Gongsun Zan, encountered and decided to protect refugees fleeing Cao Cao's civilian massacres in Xuzhou.

Cao Cao withdrew to Yanzhou, while Camellia's forces remained to protect civilians. She dispatched commanders including Lü Bu, Zhao Yun, and others to various regions. When Zhao Yun's group encountered Liu Bei's forces protecting refugees, conflict was avoided due to refugee intervention.

Upon receiving news that her mother, Mistress Geum, had been fatally wounded by the Prince of Hongnong during the rescue mission in Yanzhou, Camellia first prevented a soldier's suicide attempt by grabbing a knife blade with her bare hand, insisting that those who had done their best deserved to live. Though she initially displayed profound emotional withdrawal - appearing vacant, unable to cry, and physically weakened - Camellia rapidly transformed her grief into strategic resolve. Rather than launching an immediate attack on Yanzhou, she chose a calculated approach, "forging her burning anger into a sharp sword" and maintaining a façade of having forgotten her mother's death while secretly proceeding with rational planning.

Cao Cao, upon returning to Yanzhou, discovered the incident involving Mistress Geum. His advisor Xun Yu explained that Prince of Hongnong had been secretly leaving his quarters at night. The Prince had used a straw doll for cursing, though the paper talismans originally inside it had disappeared. Cao Cao chose to publicly dismiss the incident as a mere robbery attempt.

In the aftermath, Camellia appointed Lü Bu as Grand General and exposed Cao Cao's brutality in Xuzhou. Chen Gong resigned from Cao Cao's service upon learning of the massacres. In Jingzhou, Liu Biao's second marriage created potential succession tensions, leading Camellia's advisor Jia Xu to recommend postponing action against Jingzhou in favour of aligning with Yuan Shu.

Jia Xu discussed strategy with Camellia regarding Cai Mao and Liu Biao's succession, planning to exploit tensions in Jingzhou. Later, Lü Bu arrived drunk at Camellia's residence after consuming deer blood mixed with alcohol, given to him by those seeking marriage alliances. Despite practising celibacy for two years following his pledge of loyalty to Camellia, Lü Bu behaved inappropriately in her quarters while intoxicated, forcing her to remain present during his self-gratification:

In Camellia's private quarters, Lü Bu masturbated in front of her while she was forced to stay in the same room. Though she turned her face away and refused to look at him, he begged to see her face and requested she touch him. Camellia maintained strict boundaries and refused all physical contact. When he finished, whitish fluid covered his hand and clothes.

☠︎︎☠︎︎☠︎︎
It felt akin to the betrayal of a pet mounting its owner’s leg. Worse still, there was nothing she could do about it.
'I can’t even castrate him… Ha, if I had known this would happen, I should’ve asked Zhang Rang how to make someone a eunuch…'
As Camellia clicked her tongue in frustration, Lily, who had accompanied her to see her off, gently reassured her.
“Please don’t worry about that too much. Once he wakes up, I’ll make sure he’s sobered up and sent on his way.”
Naturally, Lily was well aware of what had transpired the night before. Camellia’s face had been ghostly pale when she returned from the separate quarters, and before Lily could even ask, she had muttered in sheer disbelief that Lü Bu was a complete madman, recounting every last detail.
Threatening to chase after her half-naked the moment she tried to leave, forcing her to sit and watch while he pleasured himself—Lily had been utterly appalled by Lü Bu’s brazen shamelessness.
☠︎︎☠︎︎☠︎︎

Lily comforted her and doused Lü Bu with cold water the next morning. Later at the palace, Lü Bu presented Camellia with a document listing individuals who had tried to curry favour with him. Though his handwriting was poor, the list proved useful to Camellia for identifying former members of Dong Zhuo's faction. Lü Bu showed no remorse for his previous night's behaviour, but was self-conscious about his penmanship. That's what you are worried about?? Seriously???

Camellia, acting with imperial authority, summoned various officials to the palace, causing anxiety due to her reputation for identifying traitors. Among those summoned was Zhu Huan, the Chief Herald, who volunteered for a diplomatic mission to Yuan Shu, unaware that Camellia had other secret diplomatic plans. After leaving the audience, Zhu Huan rushed home, avoiding interaction with others. He credited Lü Bu for recommending him to Camellia and sent gifts to Lü Bu's residence in gratitude. Others who had been summoned made similar assumptions and also sent gifts to Lü Bu, who was puzzled by these tributes as he had only spoken poorly of them.

Chen Gong arrived at the capital, claiming to have defected from Cao Cao after witnessing atrocities. He proposed a strategy involving Zhang Miao, who had grown dissatisfied with Cao Cao. Despite initial scepticism from her advisers, Camellia welcomed Chen Gong and considered his plan, which required Lü Bu's involvement.

Several days later, Camellia introduced Chen Gong to Lü Bu. The meeting proved tense, with Lü Bu immediately displaying hostility, referring to Chen Gong as a "leek root." When Jia Xu entered, Lü Bu called him "big leek," causing Chen Gong to choke on his cough.
The situation grew more complicated when Chen Gong accidentally revealed that Camellia had embraced and welcomed him warmly upon his defection. This disclosure prompted Lü Bu's anger, but Camellia quickly departed with Jia Xu, leaving Chen Gong alone with an enraged Lü Bu.

In 194 CE, Camellia appointed Lü Bu as Grand General with Chen Gong as advisor to lead troops to Yanzhou. At the departure ceremony, Lü Bu showed unusual submission to Camellia while ignoring Emperor Xian. Three secret groups left Chang'an carrying Camellia's letters to different warlords.

Zhang Miao was pressured into rebelling against Cao Cao by Lü Bu and Chen Gong. Meanwhile, Yuan Shu was offered the position of Xuzhou Governor, which he eventually accepted despite initial hesitation about working under Camellia. Sun Jian maintained his strategic alliance with Camellia.

Cao Cao faced multiple challenges: Zhang Miao's unexpected rebellion, Yuan Shao's expanding influence, and Lü Bu's military campaign. Though Lü Bu initially commanded a large force, several battles gradually decimated his army.

In Xuzhou, Tao Qian's attempt to name Liu Bei as Inspector was thwarted when Camellia appointed Yuan Shu instead. Before dying, Tao Qian sought Yuan Shao's support for Liu Bei's claim. Despite past conflicts with Liu Bei, Yuan Shao agreed to support him while battling his own health issues. Meanwhile, Lü Bu and Chen Gong escaped Cao Cao's forces, frustrating him, who nonetheless refused to blame his one-eyed general for the failure.

During a drought in Chang'an in 194, So Camellia made conspicuous purchases of grain at high prices through Gan Ning. While this appeared to signal desperation, Chang'an remained well-supplied from Miao Castle's stores. So Camellia's strategy was twofold: to avoid accusations of exploiting citizens by buying at low prices and to create an illusion of vulnerability to draw out opponents.

When locusts devastated the central plains in September, affecting both Chang'an and Yanzhou, Cao Cao required aid from Yuan Shao, while So Camellia's earlier stockpiling enabled her to provide famine relief. In early 195, following widespread petitions, she accepted the position of Duke of Huaguo (elevation to a higher rank), tasked with pacifying the regions of Hubei, Hunan, and stabilising the Huazhong area. This appointment was celebrated by all except Gongsun Zan, Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, Liu Bei, and Liu Biao.

In 194 CE, Camellia established Hua Province by dissolving another province, receiving it as her fiefdom and becoming Duke. The territory held symbolic importance as it contained both the origins and end of the Han Dynasty.

After Liu Biao was killed by his advisor Cai Mao, his eldest son escaped with help from a general. Cai Mao travelled to Chang'an seeking Camellia's favour, but found the son had already reached there through Camellia's secret agent Jao. Camellia executed Cai Mao for killing Liu Biao without proper authority, despite Jia Xu's suggestion to leverage him.

Camellia appointed Jin-jin as Inspector of Jing Province, despite his initial reluctance. She chose to support Liu Biao's son over Cai Mao, as this allowed her to absorb scholarly talents from Liu Biao's hometown. The move brought several talented officials to her court helping address her shortage of civil officials.

Jia Xu welcomed the influx of new talent, though his unusual cheerfulness caused some misunderstandings. Some officials noted that gaining Camellia's favour was more difficult than the emperor's, due to her self-taught background.

After becoming Duke and Imperial Guardian, Camellia's elevation raised her adopted sister So Xian's status. So Xian expressed preference for either not marrying or choosing an unremarkable match, claiming this was due to an old fortune teller's prediction—though this reasoning was calculated to appear non-threatening.

An incident occurred when So Xian encountered Gan Ning teaching archery to Sun Quan in the garden. After a stray arrow led to an inappropriately familiar interaction, Gan Ning, not recognising So Xian, caused her to flee. Worried about consequences, particularly regarding his standing with Camellia and his ability to return where So Xian's brother served as Inspector, Gan Ning confessed to Camellia.

Camellia, who already knew the full story from Sun Quan, based her forgiveness on her sister's reaction. So Xian requested a pause on marriage proposals, citing the "recent" deaths of her husband and father-in-law. Gan Ning sent an apology gift—an expensive silk sachet with jade, topaz, and olivine tassels—via Sun Quan. So Xian accepted it calmly, simply acknowledging receipt.

Lü Bu conquered Yanzhou from Cao Cao, who then seized Qingzhou in response. Camellia recalled Lü Bu to Chang'an. During this period, Zhang Miao and his clan were eliminated through Cao Cao's strategic manoeuvring.

Upon reaching the palace (he returned to Chang'an), Lü Bu immediately spotted Camellia at the top of the steps. He rushed up, ignoring all else, and embraced her roughly. Camellia had deliberately excluded the emperor from the victory ceremony, knowing Lü Bu would not show proper deference. At the victory banquet, Lü Bu remained sullen despite being the guest of honour. He expressed several complaints to Camellia: she had not responded frequently enough to his letters, had seemed indifferent to his return, and most importantly, had been elevated to Duke of Hua in his absence without waiting for him to witness the ceremony. Camellia placated Lü Bu by promising to ensure he would be present for her next formal robing ceremony. She acknowledged she had been somewhat inattentive during the public celebration, explaining she had planned to properly reunite with him privately later. Lü Bu warned her not to treat other "fish" (subordinates) as she treated him, threatening to empty her "pond".

Meanwhile, Cao Cao formed an alliance with Yuan Shao by revealing he had the Prince of Hongnong under his protection. They agreed to challenge Emperor Xian's legitimacy, using the Prince as their political tool. Yuan Shao would become Grand Commander and Cao Cao would take the position of Tawei.

The news of Prince of Hongnong's emergence spread rapidly, causing anxiety for Emperor Xian. Liu Bei arrived in Xuzhou representing Yuan Shao's interests, while Chen Gong advised Camellia about the growing coalition. The Prince showed a marked change in behaviour, speaking confidently about reclaiming his position, though this was attributed to Cao Cao's influence.

In Jiangdong, Sun Jian and his son Sun Ce decided to demonstrate loyalty to Camellia by offering to make Sun Quan (who was in Chang'an) the heir of their region.

In Chang'an's East Market, General Gan Ning encountered an elderly woman named Wang being harassed by thugs. She carried Mistress Geum's ashes to deliver to So Camellia. Zhao Yun recognised Wang as Mistress Geum's former wet nurse and facilitated her entry into Camellia's mansion.

After delivering the ashes and a final message, Wang passed away. Camellia arranged an elaborate funeral for both her mother and Wang, attended by Emperor Xian. Though Camellia wore mourning clothes and continued court duties in hemp attire, citing filial piety, some nobles viewed this as politically calculated behaviour. Meanwhile, Sun Jian's forces pledged loyalty to Camellia, with Sun Quan named as successor, while Cao Cao remained a distant rival.

Camellia confided in her wife Lily and Lü Bu that she felt more liberated than grieved by her mother's death, having mentally prepared for it long ago. She continued to leverage the situation politically.

Sun Ce and Zhou Yu arrived at Camellia's mansion to deliver the Imperial Seal, where Sun Quan was staying. Though Camellia invited them to stay, Lü Bu intervened, forcing them to lodge elsewhere due to concerns about attractive men near Camellia. The next morning, Camellia learned of their departure during breakfast with Lily.

Camellia later decided to send Sun Quan back to Jiangdong with his brother, since she had achieved her goals of securing the Sun family's loyalty and influencing Sun Quan. Before his departure, she promised to make him the King of Wu in the future and organised a farewell dinner.

During this period, So Xian chose to marry Gan Ning, surprising many including her brother Wu Yi and Gan Ning himself. The wedding was arranged swiftly, considering it was So Xian's second marriage and followed Mistress Geum's funeral.

As winter approached, Camellia arranged for the group's departure to Jiangdong before the New Year's feast. She gave Sun Quan a jade pendant as a parting gift, and the group left with Gan Ning promising to protect them. The farewell ended with Camellia, Lily, and Lü Bu discussing plans for the upcoming festival.

In 195 CE, Yanzhou and Qingzhou faced severe hardship after Cao Cao's order to kill crows led to crop damage from unchecked insects. While some provinces managed under Camellia's control, Qingzhou suffered famine and cannibalism.

In 196 CE, Cao Cao and Yuan Shao attempted to establish a new state called Qi Han with the Prince of Hongnong. However, the founding ceremony was disrupted by thousands of speaking crows who accused the prince of using sorcery to kill Liu Yu. Camellia orchestrated this through Jao. The other crows were partly motivated by revenge for Cao Cao's crow slaughter.

Camellia then undermined the Prince of Hongnong's legitimacy by revealing a supposedly hidden edict naming Prince Xie as Emperor Ling's successor. This was actually a forgery created by Zhang Rang.

Subsequently, Yuan Shu besieged Haibi Castle, which was defended by Zhang Fei for Liu Bei. Camellia brought Lü Bu to assist Yuan Shu. Through Chen Gong's strategy and information from Camellia's crow network, Lü Bu's forces infiltrated the castle by turning Zhao Biao into a traitor. But Zhang Fei escaped with Liu Bei's family, and Lü Bu executed Zhao Biao and created a false narrative blaming Zhang Fei for the death. Camellia positioned herself nearby, knowing that Zhang Fei, as one of the Queen's confidants, would be difficult to eliminate due to divine protection.

In heavy snowfall, Zhang Fei guarded a bridge to protect Liu Bei's family as they fled. While defending against pursuing forces led by Camellia, Zhang Fei engaged in a heated dialogue with her on the bridge. Their exchange revealed that Zhang Fei had taken satisfaction in believing Camellia was suffering from Lily's loss, but was disturbed to learn Lily was alive and had returned to Camellia. Rather than having feelings for Lily, Zhang Fei was more invested in the idea of being the last person with her in what he thought were her final moments. This gave him a feeling of superiority since it was a moment Camellia could never have.

Despite Zhang Fei's renowned strength, Camellia bested him in combat (ultimate Mary Sue duh). She struck a fatal blow to his throat. Before his death, he recalled his time with Liu Bei. Camellia decapitated him but ordered his body to be treated with respect.

Camellia captured Liu Bei's family but chose to return them to him, viewing them as mere "bycatch" in her trap for Zhang Fei. When Liu Bei received his family and Zhang Fei's coffin, he collapsed in grief. Though Zhao Yun explained that Zhang Fei died honourably in single combat, Liu Bei refused to believe it. Guan Yu reminded Liu Bei they must focus on defending their district, their remaining territory after losing Xiapi.

Liu Bei regrouped in Guangling after Zhang Fei's death, while So Camellia conquered nearby territories. Yuan Shu attacked Guangling, and despite dwindling resources, Liu Bei gained support from a wealthy noble after Guan Yu saved him. This allowed Liu Bei to defeat Yuan Shu.

Cao Cao attempted to disrupt Camellia's supply lines by using someone against Sun Ce, but this failed. Camellia sent Lü Bu to reinforce Yuan Shu against Liu Bei. Chen Gong devised a trap using false defection, which initially succeeded in ambushing Liu Bei's forces, though Liu Bei escaped with Guan Yu's help.

Liu Bei and Guan Yu split up as part of their strategy. Camellia personally pursued Liu Bei with a small force, falling into his trap. Despite fierce resistance and Yue Jin's bravery, Camellia's forces suffered heavy casualties. Yue Jin sacrificed himself to protect Camellia's retreat, revealing he knew her true identity as a woman. "Yue Jin still remembered the warmth of Camellia’s fingertips as they brushed against his lips. That alone was enough." Lü Bu arrived with reinforcements, saving Camellia, and the physician Hua Tuo discovered her secret while treating her wounds.

Lü Bu provided care to Camellia, repeatedly cleaning her body and changing her clothes several times daily. Though the past Lü Bu might have made inappropriate comments about seeing Camellia's body, the present Lü Bu was too concerned about her recovery to think of such things. Despite Hua Tuo's assurance of a successful surgery, Camellia remained unconscious for several days. Lü Bu occasionally pressed his lips to Camellia's dry, unmoving lips, frightened by how final it felt. CONSENT GUYS, CONSENT!

Upon recovery, Camellia learnt her companion Yue Jin had died in battle against Liu Bei's forces, strengthening her resolve for revenge. Camellia devised a plan to fake her own death, using Yuan Shu and multiple pieces of evidence to convince Liu Bei. The deception worked - Liu Bei was lured out of his castle during the night, believing he was meeting Yuan Shu for an alliance.

In 197 CE, Camellia revealed herself among Yuan Shu's forces and engaged Liu Bei in combat. When Liu Bei attempted to retreat, he found his advisors had betrayed him in favour of Camellia. In the ensuing battle, Camellia fatally wounded Liu Bei, piercing his heart. Thus, Liu Bei's death and his forces surrendering to her marked the culmination of Camellia's 18-year plan. She's now 28 years old.

In the aftermath, Camellia felt a sharp gaze whilst indulging in happy thoughts. Upon turning her head, she spotted Guan Yu on horseback atop a hill, his long beard flowing in the wind and his face stained with tears. This sight caused her to grip her sword tightly. Moments later, Guan Yu unexpectedly turned his horse away. Zhang Liao noticed Guan Yu's presence and offered to pursue him, suggesting they shouldn't leave potential enemies behind. But Camellia let him go.

Now, Camellia controlled 9 of the 13 provinces. Whilst she prepared to send messengers to check on Lü Bu's army, Lü Bu himself arrived with his forces. He explained that Cao Cao had split his forces unexpectedly, which explained Guan Yu's appearance.

During their conversation, Lü Bu suggested that Guan Yu would likely join either Cao Cao or Yuan Shao rather than return to Liu Bei's hometown. This contradicted Camellia's expectations based on her knowledge of Guan Yu's future. However, she realised this assumption was based on events when Liu Bei was alive.

Lü Bu suggested visiting the eastern sea since they had travelled so far east, but Camellia declined, choosing instead to return to Chang'an. Though she momentarily recalled a promise to visit the sea with Lily and thoughts of her homeland across the water, she departed without hesitation or regret.