Romance of the Three Kingdoms: Cao Wei follows the story of Cao Cao, a brilliant strategist admired even by outlaws, whose ambitions remained dormant after the Yellow Turban Rebellion. After introducing his drinking companion, the scholar Xu You, to the noble heir Yuan Shao, Xu You chooses to serve Yuan Shao instead. Witnessing Cao Cao's unwavering commitment to justice, punishing all who break the law regardless of status, Yuan Shao is drawn to the strength he himself lacks. In turn, Cao Cao finds comfort in Yuan Shao's kindness and generosity. Though their families stand as rivals, the two secretly deepen their friendship and eventually unite to overthrow the tyrant Dong Zhuo. But as their retainers and clans push them toward ruling the realm, their bond is torn apart, and both are swept into the tide of war.