Yubanghyeon’s ancient name was Cheongju, and it was once home to the elite Cheongju soldiers, commanded by the infamous warlord Cao Cao, who led many of China’s most formidable forces. However, back in those days, this area was also known as Beihai, ruled by Kong Rong, a unique descendant of Confucius and a man known for his exceptional intellect.

At first glance, Kong Rong might not leave much of an impression. He could seem like just another common scholar. But in the late Han Dynasty, he was a true intellectual, the likes of which people in the Middle Kingdom rarely …