Puppyish Cao Cao vs. the orchid-like beauty Xun Yu
After Xun Yu died, his soul returned to his hometown and became Xun Ruo, a young master of the Xun family three years older than Cao Cao, courtesy name Jingru. He was famed for his talent and wisdom, said to be as refined as an orchid and perceptive beyond compare.
He decided to take on one task: the Ah Man improvement plan.
Step one: Become his teacher. The scholars looked down on Cao Cao because he was descended from eunuchs, but Xun Ruo refused to avoid him. Gentle yet strong, he was like a lamp shining into the darkest years of Cao Cao's life.
Step two: Teach him to judge people, be patient, and set his sights high. When Cao Cao was insulted, Xun Ruo held his hand and said, “To feel anger and yet not lash out is true courage.” When Cao Cao punished evildoers and got scolded for it, Xun Ruo said, “You did the right thing. Next time, just don't let them catch you.” When Cao Cao showed off his horseback riding and archery, Xun Ruo nodded. “Ah Man really is impressive.” He gave him a little praise, then urged him to get back to his books.
Step three: …Wait, why is Ah Man getting stranger and stranger?
Cao Cao went from unease to dependence, from dependence to affection, and from affection to possessiveness. He thought Jingru belonged to him, until he realized that the “Mengde” Jingru called out in his dreams wasn't him, and that the bride he'd seized looked a little like Jingru.
The improvement plan spiraled completely out of control.
At last, Cao Cao demanded, “Do you want the realm, or do you want me? If the one in your heart is that Duke of Wei, then where does that leave me, Cao Ah Man?”
Come read and experience the process of raising the ambitious warlord Cao Cao.
A word of caution: Raising someone comes with risks, so proceed carefully. You think you're changing him, but he's the one claiming you.
Theme: Puppyish Cao Cao vs. the orchid-like beauty Xun Yu.
