Chapter 1761: Enhancing Combat Power

Upon hearing this, a flash of surprise crossed Tian Feng's eyes, followed immediately by a look of gratified relief. "Mr. Gu, I am very pleased that you have such an understanding. Indeed, regardless of our methods, our ultimate goal is for this world to return to peace. Although Liu Bei's power is still small, he possesses extraordinary ambition and breadth of mind. It is truly fortunate that you have been able to befriend him."

Gu Yi nodded and continued, "Mr. Tian Feng, I have thought a lot last night. Perhaps some of our previous approaches were indeed too radical, leading to the alienation of the people. To truly unify the world, beyond military strength, we need the support of the people. I think we should try to change our strategy, consider the people's livelihood more, and win their support through benevolent governance."

Tian Feng fell silent for a moment, seemingly weighing Gu Yi's words. He knew Yuan Shao's temper and character well; changing his decisions was no easy task, but Gu Yi's words were like a breath of fresh air, blowing away some of the fog in his heart.

"Mr. Gu, your proposal is very reasonable. But Lord Yuan Shao has a fierce temperament; it will likely take some time for him to change his mind. However, I will find an opportunity to speak to him, hoping for a turning point." Tian Feng's tone was sincere, clearly moved by Gu Yi's honesty.

Gu Yi looked at Tian Feng with gratitude. He knew that changing Yuan Shao would not happen overnight, but at least someone was willing to stand up and strive for a better future.

In the following days, Gu Yi began to pay more attention to the livelihood of the people around the camp. He personally visited the villagers, understood their hardships, and provided help as much as he could. His actions gradually won the respect and trust of the people, and a harmonious atmosphere, unprecedented, began to emerge around Yuan Shao's camp.

Meanwhile, Tian Feng was also looking for a suitable opportunity to speak to Yuan Shao. Finally, after a military meeting, he found his chance.

"My lord, this subordinate has something to report." Tian Feng's voice was steady and powerful.

Yuan Shao looked up, signaling for Tian Feng to continue.

"My lord, I deeply admire Mr. Gu Yi's recent actions among the people. By treating the people with benevolent governance, he has not only won their hearts but also brought more support and stability to our camp. I believe this may be an opportunity for us to change our strategy." Tian Feng spoke every word with great seriousness.

Yuan Shao frowned upon hearing this, seemingly contemplating Tian Feng's words. After a moment, he spoke slowly: "Tian Feng, I understand what you mean. But in these chaotic times, can benevolent governance really solve problems? I worry that being too kind will only make us weak and unable to cope with future challenges."

Tian Feng had long anticipated Yuan Shao's concern. He said calmly, "My lord, benevolent governance is not weakness, but a more sophisticated means of rule. If you subdue people by force, they will not be convinced; if you subdue them by virtue, they will be sincerely convinced. Mr. Gu Yi's approach sets an example for us. If we can combine benevolent governance with military strength, we will surely achieve more long-term results."

Yuan Shao remained silent for a long time before finally nodding. "Tian Feng, what you say makes sense. I will consider changing the strategy and pay more attention to the people's livelihood and their hearts. You and Gu Yi should draft a detailed plan and present it to me."

Tian Feng felt a surge of joy; he knew this was a major step forward for Yuan Shao. He bowed respectfully and then exited the tent.

When Tian Feng told Gu Yi the news, Gu Yi was so excited he almost jumped. He knew his efforts had finally paid off, and his determination to change the chaotic world alongside Yuan Shao grew even stronger.

In the days that followed, Gu Yi and Tian Feng worked hand in hand to formulate a series of policies aimed at improving the people's livelihood and winning their hearts. They went deep into the populace to understand their real needs and then proposed targeted solutions. With Yuan Shao's support, these policies were gradually implemented, and the effects became increasingly apparent.

The people began to feel unprecedented warmth and care, and they were filled with gratitude and respect for Yuan Shao's camp. Yuan Shao's army also saw a great boost in combat effectiveness due to the support of the people.

However, the road to peace is never smooth. Just as Yuan Shao's territory was gradually stabilizing and the people were leaning toward him, a new force quietly rose in the north: Cao Cao. With his outstanding military talent and profound political wisdom, Cao Cao rapidly unified most of the north, becoming Yuan Shao's most formidable opponent.

Upon learning this news, Gu Yi and Tian Feng furrowed their brows. They knew that the battle with Cao Cao was not just about territorial contention, but a collision of two governing philosophies. Yuan Shao's benevolent governance versus Cao Cao's iron fist—which one could better adapt to these chaotic times and win the world? The final test was about to arrive.

"Mr. Tian Feng, Cao Cao's rise is both a challenge and an opportunity for us." Gu Yi discussed countermeasures with Tian Feng in the tent. "We must consolidate our strength as soon as possible while finding a way to coexist peacefully with Cao Cao or defeat him."

Tian Feng nodded in agreement: "Indeed. Cao Cao is a man of both wisdom and courage, and his methods are ruthless; we must not take him lightly. But we are not without a chance of winning. Our benevolent governance has already won the hearts of the people, which is our greatest advantage."

The two deliberated for a long time and finally decided to proceed from two aspects: first, to continue deepening benevolent governance to make the people's support more solid; second, to strengthen military training and enhance the army's combat effectiveness in preparation for any contingencies. ===== CHAPTER 1762 =====