Chapter 35: The First Step in My Business, Let's Celebrate Together
Three days later, with all essential matters taken care of, Wang Yan planned to set out for Runan the next day. He left Zhou Cang in charge and took Zhao Yun with him. After careful consideration, Wang Yan felt that Zhou Cang, who had devoted significant effort to training the elite troops, was best suited to lead the army. With Zhou Cang's loyalty, Wang Yan entrusted him with the management of the system's remote storage space.
It was time for some bonding over drinks on the eve of departure. The courtyard was bathed in moonlight as night fell, with stars scattered across the sky. The three men gathered around a circular stone table adorned with exquisite dishes and three large drinking bowls that stood out prominently. The alcohol, concocted with medical-grade alcohol, was potent enough to knock out an ordinary person from afar. But among these formidable men, it was just the right way to enjoy a good drink.
Wang Yan watched his two capable generals, Zhao Yun, and Zhou Cang, who were already deep into their cups, with a satisfied smile. Having accomplished his first significant feat by killing Zhang Jiao, it was time to reward his top employees with a well-deserved celebration.
"Five five heads, six six six."
"Brothers united, three peach gardens."
"Seven clever, nine rings."
The loud, vigorous voices echoed as they played drinking games, the atmosphere charged with camaraderie. They had drunk quite a bit.
Zhou Cang's face, usually as dark as coal, had turned a deep red. "Hey, Zilong, no cheating; I lost; I should drink."
Zhao Yun, his eyes half-closed, responded, "Zhou Cang, you're losing on purpose to drink more. Isn't that cheating?"
"Ha ha ha, I'm not good at this game. Master's drinking rules are too complicated!" Zhou Cang laughed heartily.
"You just want more of the Master's drink!" Zhao Yun retorted, chuckling. "I've figured you out. You love Master's wine too much!"
"You're right, Zilong. This wine is like nectar from the heavens. It burns like fire going down, but it's so satisfying!" Zhou Cang exclaimed.
Reflecting on the hardships he had endured under the Yellow Turbans, Zhou Cang felt grateful. He had been led astray in the past and lived a life filled with self-doubt. Now, under Wang Yan's leadership, he felt reborn, commanding three thousand elite troops.
"Meeting you, my lord has been the greatest fortune of my life!" Zhou Cang declared emotionally. "Master, I owe you a debt as heavy as a mountain. I drink to you!"
Wang Yan raised his bowl in return, sipping lightly. "Zhou Cang, as Zilong and I head to Runan, we might go straight to Luoyang. I'm leaving the elite troops and the civilians with you. My father will help with their settlement."
He continued, "Also, there's that room—ensure only you can access it for supplies. No one, not even my father, should get close to it."
The heartfelt trust and the alcohol made Zhou Cang emotional. Knowing they would soon part, he, a usually rugged man, couldn't help but tear up.
"My lord!" Zhou Cang cried, holding Wang Yan's hand.
"Zhou Cang..." Wang Yan responded, equally moved.
"My lord!"
The bond between them deepened, filled with mutual respect and trust. As the drinking session continued, Zhao Yun, feeling equally emotional, raised his bowl. "Master, I, too, drink to you. Now that my family and homeland are safe, I can wholeheartedly follow you."
Wang Yan glanced at Zhao Yun's attributes on his panel:
- Strength: 96
- Leadership: 91
- Intelligence: 76
- Charisma: 81
- Emotional fluctuation: 92%
With his talent for persuasion, Wang Yan seized the moment. "Zilong, a real man must strive for great achievements with his sword! I promise you, I will make sure you are known throughout the land!"
Zhao Yun, filled with ambition, responded, "Master!"
"Zilong..."
"Master!"
Feeling a strong sense of déjà vu, Wang Yan raised his bowl. "I deeply care for both Zilong and Zhou Cang, as this wine signifies."
"Master!"
"Zhou Cang..."
"Master!"
"Zilong..."
The atmosphere was intense and emotional. Their bond strengthened, promises were made, and the team-building exercise concluded successfully. After Zhao Yun and Zhou Cang left, Wang Yan stood alone in the courtyard. The alcohol faded, and a cloud of uncertainty settled over his mind.
"Soon, the court's reward will arrive. What should I do if Emperor Ling of Han summons me to serve in Luoyang? Is Emperor Ling a time traveler?" Wang Yan pondered, recalling the emperor's reputation.
Though known for his indulgences and favoritism towards eunuchs, Emperor Ling was also a strategic ruler who balanced power. He wasn't a puppet for any faction. This made Wang Yan wary, knowing that the emperor could be formidable.
"Master, what troubles you?" Diaochan asked, joining him after tidying up.
Looking at her lovely face, Wang Yan felt warmth in his heart. "Diaochan, if someone usually behaves frivolously but shows great competence in serious matters, do you think they are hiding their true nature?"
Diaochan thought for a moment. "Master, I think it's just their personality, not caring about others' opinions."
Wang Yan smiled and sighed. "Maybe. Perhaps he knows that corrupt officials will be corrupt no matter what, so why not benefit from it himself?"
"He's smart and not afraid of conventions. A tough opponent," Wang Yan concluded.
Surprised by his insight, Diaochan's mouth opened slightly in amazement, looking as inviting as a ripe cherry.
Wang Yan, noticing her expression, grinned. "Diaochan, let's go back to the room."
"Tonight will be a bit different," he added with a mischievous glint.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone