As regent, Zhuge Liang focuses on strengthening Shu Han's internal affairs. He reforms the government, promotes agriculture, enforces strict laws, and fosters alliances with other ethnic groups in the south to stabilize the kingdom. He also appoints capable officials like Jiang Wan and Fei Yi to key positions.

Zhuge Liang personally leads a campaign to pacify the Nanman tribes in the south. He uses a combination of military force and diplomacy to subdue the tribes and secure the southern border, ensuring stability before launching the Northern Expeditions. Legend states that he captured and released Meng Huo seven times to win his genuine allegiance.

Before launching the first Northern Expedition, Zhuge Liang writes the "Memorial to the Throne" (Chu Shi Biao), a poignant and eloquent document expressing his loyalty to Liu Bei and his determination to restore the Han Dynasty. This memorial becomes one of the most famous pieces of Chinese literature.

Zhuge Liang launches five major military expeditions against Cao Wei, the dominant kingdom in the north. While he achieves some tactical victories, he ultimately fails to conquer significant territory due to logistical challenges, skilled Wei generals (like Sima Yi), and the need to defend Shu Han's borders.

The First Northern Expedition focuses on seizing the strategically important Longxi region. However, Ma Su's defeat at the Battle of Jieting forces Zhuge Liang to withdraw, ending the expedition prematurely. Zhuge Liang famously executes Ma Su to maintain military discipline.

This expedition resulted in Zhuge Liang capturing Wudu and Yinping prefectures. This was a partial victory but not enough to significantly weaken Wei.

The Fourth Northern Expedition saw a major confrontation with Sima Yi at Mount Qi. Despite achieving some initial victories, Zhuge Liang's supply lines were stretched thin, forcing him to retreat.

Zhuge Liang's final expedition leads to a prolonged standoff with Sima Yi at the Battle of Wuzhang Plains. He dies of illness in the army camp. Before his death, he arranges for his successor, ensuring a smooth transition of power within Shu Han.