Lu Su

Lu Su, born in the year 172, was a prominent Chinese military general and politician during the late Eastern Han dynasty. He served under the influential warlord Sun Quan, becoming one of his most trusted advisers. Lu Su's strategic acumen was first recognized in the year 200 when Zhou Yu recommended him to Sun Quan, marking the beginning of a significant partnership that would shape the political landscape of the time.

One of Lu Su's most notable contributions was his drafting of a long-term strategy aimed at establishing Sun Quan's power bloc as one of the three major contending powers in China. This plan, which bore similarities to Zhuge Liang's Longzhong Plan proposed several years later, showcased Lu Su's foresight and understanding of the complex political dynamics of the era.

In the lead-up to the pivotal Battle of Red Cliffs in late 208, Lu Su played a crucial role by persuading Sun Quan to form an alliance with Liu Bei against the formidable Cao Cao. This alliance proved to be a turning point in the conflict, demonstrating Lu Su's diplomatic skills and ability to navigate the treacherous waters of war and politics.

Following the death of Zhou Yu in 210, Lu Su succeeded him as the frontline commander of Sun Quan's forces. He adeptly maintained the alliance with Liu Bei, ensuring the stability of their joint efforts against their common enemies. In 215, Lu Su further showcased his diplomatic prowess by representing Sun Quan in negotiations with Liu Bei's general, Guan Yu, during a territorial dispute over Jing Province.