Romance of the Three Kingdoms Jia Xu

Jia Xu, courtesy name Wenhe, was one of the most cunning and clear-sighted strategists of the late Eastern Han period, revered for his ability to survive and thrive through the chaotic rise and fall of warlords. Unlike many of his contemporaries who rose and fell with the fortunes of a single lord, Jia Xu carefully navigated shifting allegiances—from serving Dong Zhuo and Li Jue to ultimately becoming a trusted advisor to Cao Cao.

Known for his calm demeanor and ruthless pragmatism, Jia Xu never sought glory or recognition, but his quiet counsel often turned the tide of critical moments. His advice to avoid risky battles, exploit enemy weaknesses, and preserve strength earned him deep respect from even the most ambitious leaders. While not as flamboyant as other strategists, his wisdom and understanding of human nature made him an invaluable asset. His loyalty to the Cao family remained firm until his death, serving both Cao Cao and later Cao Pi with steady guidance.