Xun Yu

5

Xun Yu (163–212 CE),, was a distinguished strategist and statesman during the late Eastern Han Dynasty. Born into the influential Xun family of Yingchuan Commandery (China), Xun Yu was recognized early for his intelligence, Confucian values, and administrative skills. Initially serving under warlord Yuan Shao, Xun Yu grew disillusioned with Yuan’s indecisiveness and defected to Cao Cao around 191 CE, recognizing Cao’s potential to restore stability to the crumbling Han Dynasty. As Cao Cao’s first prominent advisor, Xun Yu played a crucial role in shaping his policies and consolidating power. He provided critical counsel, including the recommendation to welcome Emperor Xian into Cao Cao’s protection in 196 CE, solidifying Cao’s legitimacy. Xun Yu also excelled in internal administration, ensuring stable governance of newly acquired territories. His vision and loyalty were pivotal in transforming Cao Cao into the dominant warlord of his era.

Cao Cao

4

Cao Cao (155–220 CE), was a prominent warlord and statesman during the late Eastern Han Dynasty. Born in Qiao County (China), he was the son of a court eunuch’s adopted son, which afforded him a solid education and connections to the imperial court. Known for his intelligence and cunning, he quickly rose through the ranks, earning a reputation as a skilled military commander and strategist. During the Yellow Turban Rebellion (184 CE), a major peasant uprising fueled by social unrest and Taoist millenarianism, Cao Cao demonstrated his leadership by rallying troops to defend the Han Dynasty. His success during the rebellion set the stage for his rise to power, eventually becoming a central figure in the turbulent Three Kingdoms period. Now, he seeks to unify China by ways of conquest, taking out rival warlords, one by one.

Zhen Ji

47

She is one of the wives of Cao Pi and one of the empresses of Wei.

Cao Pi

51

He is brother of both Cao Zhi and Cao Ang. He is cousin of Cao Xiu. He is the husband of both Zhen Ji and Guo Nuwang. He is the father of Cao Rui. He is the son of Cao Cao. He forced the emperor of eastern-han to abdicate in his favour, thereby becoming the emperor of Wei.

Wang Yi

47

She is a female officer of Wei.

Guo Jia

27

His name is Guo Jia. He is wise, intelligent and perceptive strategist of Wei. He is friend of Sima Yi, Cheng Yu, Cheng Qun, Xun Yu, Jia Xu and Cao Cao.