Liu Bei, seeking capable advisors, visits Zhuge Liang's residence in Longzhong three times. Zhuge Liang is finally willing to meet Liu Bei after the third visit, recognizing Liu Bei's sincerity. This event symbolizes Liu Bei's humility and determination and marks the beginning of their partnership.

Zhuge Liang presents Liu Bei with the Longzhong Plan, a strategic blueprint for securing Jing Province, taking Yi Province (Sichuan), and eventually establishing a tripartite division of China with Cao Cao in the north and Sun Quan in the east. This plan guides Liu Bei's actions for the next several years.

Following Cao Cao's invasion of Jing Province, Zhuge Liang accompanies Liu Bei's retreating forces. He plays a crucial role in protecting Liu Bei's family during the chaotic retreat from Changban.

Zhuge Liang is dispatched to Jiangdong (Sun Quan's territory) to negotiate an alliance against Cao Cao. He successfully persuades Sun Quan to join forces with Liu Bei, recognizing the mutual threat posed by Cao Cao.

The allied forces of Liu Bei and Sun Quan decisively defeat Cao Cao's larger army at the Battle of Red Cliffs. Zhuge Liang's diplomatic efforts are instrumental in securing the victory, which solidifies the strategic alliance and prevents Cao Cao from unifying China.

Following Red Cliffs, Zhuge Liang assists Liu Bei in expanding his influence within Jing Province. He plays a key role in managing the territory and consolidating Liu Bei's power base.

Zhuge Liang, along with Zhang Fei and Zhao Yun, leads an expedition to conquer Yi Province (Sichuan). This conquest provides Liu Bei with a secure territory and the resources necessary to compete with Cao Cao and Sun Quan.

Following the conquest of Yi Province, Zhuge Liang is entrusted with governing the region. He implements fair laws, promotes agriculture, and strengthens the military, laying the foundation for the Shu Han dynasty.

Zhuge Liang provides strategic guidance to Liu Bei during the Han Zhong Campaign, where Liu Bei defeats Cao Cao's forces and solidifies his control over the region.

Following Cao Pi's usurpation of the Han throne, Liu Bei declares himself Emperor of Shu Han, claiming to be the legitimate successor to the Han Dynasty. Zhuge Liang is appointed Chancellor, becoming one of the most powerful figures in the new empire.

Liu Bei launches a disastrous campaign against Sun Quan to avenge the death of Guan Yu and the loss of Jing Province. Zhuge Liang remains in Chengdu, managing the state affairs. Following Liu Bei's defeat and subsequent illness, Liu Bei entrusts Zhuge Liang with the regency of his son, Liu Shan.

On his deathbed, Liu Bei entrusts Zhuge Liang with the care of his son, Liu Shan, and the future of Shu Han. He urges Zhuge Liang to either assist Liu Shan if he proves capable or to take the throne himself if he proves otherwise, demonstrating immense trust in Zhuge Liang's abilities and integrity.