Liu Shan treats Zhuge as a father figure, allowing him to handle all state affairs.

Zhuge Liang recommends many trusted officials, including Fei Yi, Dong Yun, Guo Youzhi and Xiang Chong into key positions.

Under Zhuge Liang's advice, Liu Shan enters into an alliance with the state of Wu, helping both states to survive against the much larger state of Wei.

During Zhuge Liang's regency, the government is largely efficient and not corrupt, allowing the relatively small state of Shu to prepare itself for military campaigns.

Liu Shan marries the late General Zhang Fei's daughter, Empress Zhang, in 223.

Liu Bei dies in the spring of 223 at Baidicheng from dysentery.

He is succeeded by his crown prince Liu Shan, with chancellor Zhuge Liang and general Li Yan serving as regents.