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___________________________
The people of Xiapi, having heard rumors of the Sun Clan's arrival, lined the streets to catch a glimpse of the famed family. Sun Jian and Sun Ce rode at the head of the procession, their commanding presence unmistakable even from a distance. Behind them followed the rest of the Sun family inside their carriage, including Sun Quan, Sun Shangxiang, and their close retainers.
As they entered the city, the streets erupted in cheers and excitement. The people of Xiapi, well aware of the Sun Clan's formidable reputation, were eager to see their arrival as a sign of unity between the two great families.
Lie Fan stood at the steps of his residence, surrounded by his closest advisors and family members. His mother, Yu Yan, and his wives, Diao Chan, Cai Wenji, Ying Yue, and Lu Lingqi, were present to greet the Sun Clan personally. It was an important moment—one that signaled not just friendship but a potential deeper alliance between two powerful families.
As the Sun Clan's procession came to a halt before the Lie Clan's residence, Sun Jian and Sun Ce dismounted and approached Lie Fan. The two men exchanged respectful bows, though their familiarity with each other was evident in the warmth of their smiles.
"Brother Lie Fan," Sun Ce greeted with a broad smile. "It is good to see you again."
Lie Fan clasped Sun Ce's forearm in greeting. "Bofu, it has been far too long. Welcome to Xiapi, my friend. And, of course, my respects to you as well, Brother Wentai, I haven't seen you in a long time."
Sun Jian nodded, his deep voice resonating as he spoke. "Brother Lie Fan, you have built a magnificent city. It is an honor to be here and to celebrate with you."
After the initial pleasantries were exchanged, Lie Fan led the Sun Clan toward the mansion that had been prepared for them. As they walked through the streets of Xiapi, Sun Jian and Sun Ce could not help but notice the prosperity of the city.
The people were well-dressed, the markets bustling with trade, and the infrastructure showed signs of recent expansion. Xiapi was thriving under Lie Fan's rule, and it was clear to them that their ally had built something truly impressive.
When they arrived at the mansion, the Sun family was taken aback by its grandeur. The property was spacious, beautifully decorated, and equipped with every luxury they could imagine. The servants stood ready to attend to their every need, and the furnishings were fit for royalty.
"Brother Lie Fan," Sun Ce said with admiration, "this is too much. You have truly outdone yourself."
Lie Fan smiled, placing a hand on Sun Ce's shoulder. "Nothing is too much for my friends. I want you and your family to feel at home here in Xiapi."
Sun Jian, ever the pragmatic warrior, looked around and nodded in approval. "You honor us with this gift, Brother Lie Fan. We are grateful for your hospitality."
As the Sun Clan settled into their new residence, Lie Fan's strategy was already beginning to unfold. By providing them with such lavish accommodations, he was not only demonstrating his wealth and power but also laying the foundation for a deeper bond between their families.
Over the next few days, he would make every effort to strengthen this relationship, knowing that if he could gain the loyalty of the Sun Clan, it would significantly bolster his influence.
In the days leading up to the grand celebration, Xiapi was abuzz with activity. Preparations for the event continued, but Lie Fan's focus remained on his guests.
He invited Sun Jian and Sun Ce to several private meetings, where they discussed not only the upcoming festivities but also matters of military strategy, governance, and the future of the fractured land and further cooperation between the two clans.
During one such meeting, Lie Fan broached the topic he had been carefully preparing for. "Bofu, Brother Wentai, our two families have stood side by side for many years now. We have fought together, supported each other, and built strong ties of friendship. But I believe that we could accomplish even more if we were united under a single banner."
Sun Ce, intrigued but also feeling some little dread, leaned forward. "What do you mean, Brother Lie Fan?"
Lie Fan smiled, choosing his words carefully. "The land is fractured, and though we each govern our territories, there is strength in unity. Imagine what we could achieve if the Sun Clan and the Lie Clan were to forge into an even tighter bond—not just as friends, but as brothers-in-arms working under one banner, bound by a common cause. Together, we could carve out a place for ourselves in this tumultuous era, secure our families' futures, and bring stability to the lands we control."
Sun Jian remained silent, considering the proposition. He had long respected Lie Fan and thought of him as his own brother, but such a formal alliance would mean much more than friendship—it would be a commitment to a shared destiny.
While Sun Jian remained silent, deep in thought, Sun Ce was immediately attracted to the notion presented by Lie Fan. His eyes lit up with excitement, but at the same time, a hint of confusion crept into his mind. He leaned forward, eager to understand more, and asked, "Brother Lie Fan, this idea of unity under one banner—are you saying that the Sun Clan would serve under the Lie Clan? Or would it be the other way around?"
Lie Fan had anticipated this question. He maintained his cordial smile, his voice calm and measured as he responded. "Bofu, I appreciate your directness, and I understand your concern. What I propose is not servitude, but an alliance of strength. The Sun Clan, under my leadership, would swear allegiance to me. In return, I offer you more than just protection and support.
"Aside from a few changes in military command, everything else is open to negotiation. You would retain control over your lands, your people, and your family's honor would be upheld. This is not a demand but an invitation to join me in shaping the future of this land, together."
Lie Fan's words were carefully chosen, carrying both the weight of authority and the warmth of friendship. He didn't want to make Sun Ce or Sun Jian feel like they were being forced into a corner. Instead, he wanted them to see this as an opportunity—a way to ensure their family's security and prosperity in an era filled with uncertainty.
Sun Ce, whose sense of loyalty and admiration for Lie Fan had only grown over the years, felt a surge of emotion at these words. He was moved by the sincerity in Lie Fan's tone, and the idea of fighting side by side with his closest friend to shape the future of the land was deeply appealing to him.
For Sun Ce, who had always valued strength and honor, the thought of pledging allegiance to a man like Lie Fan, who had never given him reason to doubt his intentions, felt natural.
But at the same time, a part of him hesitated. He couldn't shake the feeling that swearing allegiance would mean the Sun Clan giving up their autonomy, their independence. "Brother Lie Fan," Sun Ce began, his voice tentative, "if we pledge our allegiance, does that mean we lose our ability to command our own armies? Would the Sun Clan's power be diminished?"
Lie Fan shook his head slightly, his expression sympathetic. "Bofu, I understand your concerns. I would not ask the Sun Clan to give up its power without careful consideration. What I propose is a shared command structure where I, as your sworn ally, take on the mantle of leadership. However, your family and your trusted retainers would still hold considerable authority within your lands. Your armies would remain intact, though they would ultimately answer to me in times when I needed them and everything else open for negotiation. This is not about diminishing the Sun Clan's power but rather consolidating it with mine to create a force that can squash any other warlord or regional power."
As Lie Fan's words sank in, Sun Ce found himself deeply touched by the gesture. He had known Lie Fan for years, and never once had his friend shown anything but loyalty and kindness toward him and his family.
The idea that Lie Fan would go to such lengths to avoid conflict between their two clans was heartwarming. Sun Ce's admiration for Lie Fan only grew, and he felt a strong desire to see their two families united under a single banner.
But unlike Sun Ce, Sun Jian's thoughts were more calculated. He, too, was moved by Lie Fan's gesture, but his years of experience as a warrior and leader had taught him the importance of considering every angle before making such a monumental decision.
Sun Jian understood that aligning with Lie Fan in this manner was not as simple as swearing allegiance. It would require careful negotiation, and more importantly, the support of the Sun Clan's retainers and allies.
"Brother Lie Fan," Sun Jian finally spoke, his deep voice carrying the weight of his authority and experience. "I appreciate the thoughtfulness of your proposal, and I believe you are sincere in your offer. However, I must consider the broader implications. Our family is not just bound by blood, but by the loyalty of our retainers and the people of our territories. For this cooperation to work, we would need the consent of not only our family but the approval of the commanders and subordinates who have fought alongside us. A sudden move toward submission might create unrest and potentially weaken our position if not handled carefully."
Lie Fan nodded in agreement, his respect for Sun Jian growing with each passing moment. He understood that Sun Jian's caution was not out of distrust, but out of wisdom. "Brother Wentai, you are right to be cautious. I would never ask you to make such a decision without consulting your most trusted advisors and commanders. My hope is that through this grand celebration, you and your family can see the strength and unity that Xiapi represents, and in time, I believe that your retainers and allies will see the benefit of such cooperation."
Sun Jian stroked his beard thoughtfully. He knew that Lie Fan's proposal was tempting. Aligning with Lie Fan would secure the Sun Clan's future and grant them protection against other ambitious warlords. But Sun Jian also knew that the Sun Clan's power was deeply tied to the loyalty of their generals and soldiers. If this move was perceived as surrendering too much power, it could cause fractures within their ranks.
"Brother Lie Fan," Sun Jian said, his voice measured, "I trust you as a brother. But we must approach this carefully. The Sun Clan has stood strong because of the loyalty and respect of our retainers. We must ensure that they understand the advantages of this alliance, or else we risk internal dissent."
____________________________
Name: Lie Fan
Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains
Age: 32 (199 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 1325
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 951 (+20)
VIT: 613 (+20)
AGI: 598 (+10)
INT: 617
CHR: 96
WIS: 519
WILL: 407
ATR Points: 0
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___________________________
"Brother Lie Fan," Sun Jian said, his voice measured, "I trust you as a brother. But we must approach this carefully. The Sun Clan has stood strong because of the loyalty and respect of our retainers. We must ensure that they understand the advantages of this alliance, or else we risk internal dissent."
Sun Ce, eager to bridge the gap between his father's caution and his own enthusiasm, spoke up. "Father, I believe Brother Lie Fan is offering us more than just protection. He is offering us a chance to build something greater together. We have fought alongside him, and I trust him completely. If we are to survive in this fractured world, we need strong allies. Brother Lie Fan has proven time and again that he is someone we can depend on."
Sun Jian glanced at his son, seeing the conviction in his eyes. Sun Ce's words echoed the feelings Sun Jian himself had felt but hadn't yet voiced. He trusted Lie Fan deeply and knew that their bond was one forged in battle and loyalty. But the stakes were high, and the decision was not one to be made lightly.
Lie Fan, sensing the weight of the moment, decided to ease the tension. "Brother Wentai, Bofu, I understand that this is a significant decision, and I would not expect it to be made hastily. Let us enjoy our meeting today and take our time to consider the future. There is no need for immediate answers. What matters most is that our families remain united in purpose and friendship."
Sun Jian nodded, appreciating the space Lie Fan was giving them. "Thank you, Brother Lie Fan. You have always been a man of honor, and I value your patience. We will consider your proposal carefully, and when the time is right, we will speak again."
With the conversation temporarily set aside, the mood lightened as the three men shared a toast to their friendship. As they drank, Sun Ce could not help but feel a surge of excitement.
He believed in Lie Fan's vision for the future, and though he knew his father was right to be cautious, Sun Ce felt that this cooperation would be a turning point for both their families and like his father, he didn't have any grand ambition and just wanted to keep his family safe.
While Lie Fan was engaged in his meeting with Sun Jian and Sun Ce, a different kind of gathering was taking place elsewhere in the estate. His wives, Ying Yue, Diao Chan, Cai Wenji, and Lu Lingqi, along with Wannian and Sima Yi, were hosting a tea party for Lady Wu, Da Qiao, Xiao Qiao, Sun Shangxiang, and Sun Quan.
The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, the air filled with the delicate fragrance of tea and the soft clatter of fine porcelain as cups were passed and refilled.
The table was laden with an array of snack delicacies that Xiapi was famous for: sweet lotus seed pastries, steamed buns filled with savory meats and vegetables, and platters of fresh fruits arranged in elaborate displays.
The attention to detail was clear, and the Sun family women were impressed with the hospitality they were receiving. It was a perfect setting to foster deeper ties between the two families, though in a way that focused on the softer, more domestic aspects of life.
Lady Wu, the matron of the Sun family, sat with Diao Chan and Ying Yue, talking about household management and the daily challenges of running such large estates.
Despite the grandeur of their lives, they shared common experiences—managing servants, overseeing kitchens, and ensuring that their homes were always ready to host important guests. It was a conversation that transcended social status, filled with anecdotes and tips passed down through generations.
"Your household must be very well-run, Lady Wu," Diao Chan said, her voice soft and respectful. "The reputation of the Sun family's grace and elegance is known throughout the land."
Lady Wu smiled, the lines of her face softening as she nodded. "It is a constant effort, but I have had many years to perfect my ways. Your home here in Xiapi is equally impressive, and I can see that you and your sisters-in-law are quite skilled in your own right."
The women laughed lightly, the conversation flowing easily as they bonded over their shared experiences. Meanwhile, Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao were discussing embroidery techniques with Cai Wenji, who was renowned for her artistry and poetic talents. The three women admired each other's skills, sharing patterns and tips as they examined the fine embroidery that adorned their sleeves.
"It's the small details that matter," Cai Wenji said, tracing the delicate threadwork of a flower on Da Qiao's robe. "A single thread out of place can change the entire look of a piece."
"Indeed," Da Qiao agreed, her voice thoughtful. "It's much like the way we manage our homes. Every detail matters, and if we're not careful, something small can unravel into something much larger."
As the women bonded over these softer arts, a very different conversation was unfolding between Wannian and Sun Shangxiang. Unlike her more traditionally feminine sisters-in-law, Wannian was a warrior at heart, much like Sun Shangxiang. The two young women had struck up an instant camaraderie, and they were now animatedly discussing martial arts, their eyes gleaming with excitement.
"I've been practicing swordplay since I was a child," Sun Shangxiang said proudly, her tone filled with the same fiery passion she exhibited on the battlefield. "I can match any of my brothers in combat, and I'll continue to train until I surpass them all."
Wannian, equally enthusiastic, nodded eagerly. "My sister-in-law Lu has trained me in combat as well, and I've been sparring with her and even some of the women soldiers in the barracks. It's important to be able to defend oneself, especially in times like these."
The two girls continued their conversation with zeal, comparing techniques and discussing different weapons. Wannian shared with Sun Shangxiang the news of her upcoming marriage to Sima Yi, which took Sun Shangxiang by surprise.
"You're getting married?" Sun Shangxiang exclaimed, her eyes wide with astonishment. "I didn't expect you to be the first to marry! You always seemed so focused on your training."
Wannian blushed slightly, smiling as she spoke. "It wasn't something I planned, but Sima Yi is a good man, and we both understand each other well. I think it will be a strong partnership, even if it means balancing my martial training with other responsibilities."
Sun Shangxiang nodded thoughtfully, her surprise giving way to curiosity. "I suppose marriage is something we all have to think about eventually, but it's strange to think about it for myself. I've always focused on training and helping my brothers."
Wannian chuckled. "I thought the same thing, but life has a way of surprising you. Besides, it's not as if I'll stop training once I'm married. Sima Yi encourages my martial pursuits, and I wouldn't have agreed to it if he didn't."
Meanwhile, as the women engaged in their respective conversations, Sima Yi and Sun Quan were seated slightly apart from the rest, discussing matters of governance, politics, and military strategy. Both young men were sharp and ambitious, and it didn't take long for them to recognize each other's potential.
Sun Quan, though younger than his older brother, had always been seen as a capable leader, wise beyond his years. His curiosity about how to govern effectively in such tumultuous times was evident as he spoke with Sima Yi, who was equally known for his intelligence and strategic mind.
"The current state of the land is unsustainable," Sun Quan said, his tone serious. "Warlords across the land vie for control, but none have been able to unify it. Even in our territories, maintaining control requires constant vigilance. How do you believe we can ensure stability in such chaos?"
Sima Yi leaned forward slightly, his eyes gleaming with intellect. "Stability comes from understanding both the needs of the people and the ambitions of those in power. The key is to create a system where both are balanced—strength at the top and support at the base. But it also requires foresight. Knowing when to strike and when to consolidate is crucial."
Sun Quan nodded, absorbing Sima Yi's words. "That's something my father often speaks about. He says that governing a territory is like managing a battlefield. Every decision you make has ripple effects, and even small mistakes can lead to larger issues down the line."
Sima Yi smiled slightly. "Your father is a wise man. Governance is indeed like a battlefield. In both, strategy is paramount. But where a battlefield requires swift and decisive action, governance often requires patience and a long-term view. Those who think only of immediate gains will find themselves trapped by their own short-sightedness."
The two continued their discussion, each impressed by the other's insight and understanding. Sun Quan, though young, showed a depth of thought that Sima Yi respected, and Sima Yi's methodical approach to governance and strategy resonated with Sun Quan's own values.
As the conversations at the tea party continued, the bonds between the two families were steadily being strengthened. The women had found common ground in their discussions of household management, arts, and shared responsibilities, while the younger generation—Wannian and Sun Shangxiang, Sima Yi and Sun Quan—were bonding their connections based on mutual respect and shared interests.
Lie Fan's wives, ever aware of the political importance of such gatherings, subtly guided the conversations toward reinforcing these bonds.
Ying Yue, the most senior of Lie Fan's wives, ensured that Lady Wu felt respected and valued, while Diao Chan's grace and charm helped to smooth over any potential awkwardness. Cai Wenji's intellect and artistic talents impressed the Sun family women, and Lu Lingqi, though quieter, exuded strength and poise that did not go unnoticed.
By the end of the tea party, there was a sense of warmth and camaraderie that had not been present before. The Sun family women had clearly enjoyed themselves, and even Sun Shangxiang, who was often more at ease on the training grounds than in such social settings, had found a kindred spirit in Wannian.
As they prepared to depart, Lady Wu spoke to Ying Yue with a smile. "Your hospitality has been exceptional. We are honored to be treated with such kindness."
Ying Yue bowed her head slightly in response. "It has been our pleasure to host you, Lady Wu. We hope that this is the beginning of a long and prosperous friendship between our families." With the tea party drawing to a close, it was clear that the foundation for a deeper alliance had been laid not only through the political discussions of the men but also through the personal connections formed among the women and younger generation.
____________________________
Name: Lie Fan
Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains
Age: 32 (199 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 1325
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 951 (+20)
VIT: 613 (+20)
AGI: 598 (+10)
INT: 617
CHR: 96
WIS: 519
WILL: 407
ATR Points: 0
Creation is hard, cheer me up! VOTE for me!
I tagged this book, come and support me with a thumbs up!
Like it ? Add to library!
Have some idea about my story? Comment it and let me know.
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