The year is 200 AD. The Emperor has just been forced to step down under the regime of Dong Zhuo. The land had already suffered corruption from Court Eunuchs, civil unrest from the Yellow Turban Rebellion, and natural disasters like famine and plague. Sadly, their troubles continue as Dong Zhuo is now Regent and declared himself to be Emperor under the suggestion of Li Ru. Cao Cao has failed an assassination attempt but he is a competent and wise strategist and tactician. He has joined a coalition, formed by Yuan Shao to conquer the Dong Zhuo regime, and he intends on destroying his competition. In this role play you play the inhabitant ruler of an independent city, seeking to spread your rule, or you can play an officer or ruler of another regime that already exists. Yuan Shao, Cao Cao, and Dong Zhuo are available, perhaps with other rulers as well to spread your ambition throughout the land, either for your own power or the people's good.