[Rise to Power + Hegemony + Political Intrigue + Military Strategy + Taoism + Governance]
Set in a partly fictionalized pre-Qin era, with a classical writing style and an ensemble cast. Read with caution if this isn't your cup of tea.
Jiang Huo had always lived in the mountains, far from the world, and followed Taoist principles. He had been content with a quiet life, but bandits came knocking at his door, and he learned that turmoil had engulfed the lands beyond the mountains. There was no longer any hope of farming in peace, so he had no choice but to unite the villagers and organize their forces against danger. From then on, he relied on Taoist principles and ingenious schemes, winning every battle and overcoming every obstacle, until he unified the realm.
