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___________________________
News of their triumph was dispatched to Chengdu with urgency. Messengers carried letters detailing the victory, including a comprehensive report on the subdued tribes and the remaining resistance. The correspondence also sought guidance from Liu Zhang's court on how to proceed, as Yan Yan and Zhang Ren recognized that further campaigns into the uncharted jungles required significant resources and political approval.
When the news reached Chengdu, the city erupted in celebration. Civilians and officials alike praised the efforts of Yan Yan and Zhang Ren, seeing the victory as a critical step in securing the Yi Province. The court, under the direction of Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da, convened to deliberate on the next course of action.
Zhang Song, holding the letter, read aloud the generals' reports to the court. "The Nanman tribes' coalition has been subdued, and Meng Huo is now under our control. However, the generals request guidance on managing the remaining tribes and ensuring stability in the south."
The officials murmured in approval, many praising Liu Zhang for his leadership. Unbeknownst to Liu Zhang however, the true power behind the court lay in the hands of Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da.
The three had skillfully manipulated events to portray Liu Zhang as a capable ruler after becoming free from Zhang Wei and Wang Shang's grasp, all while tightening their grip on Yi Province in preparation for their secret allegiance to Lie Fan.
Fa Zheng spoke next, his voice calm and authoritative. "We must capitalize on this victory to consolidate our rule over the south. I propose that Yan Yan and Zhang Ren be granted autonomy to negotiate with the remaining tribes, using both diplomacy and force as necessary."
"Additionally, Meng Huo should be presented before the court, where his formal surrender can be witnessed by all. This will send a clear message to both the Nanman tribes and our own people."
Meng Da, always one to think ahead, added, "This is also an opportunity to strengthen the province's economy. The Nanman territories are rich in resources, particularly rare herbs and exotic goods. By integrating the tribes, we can establish trade routes and bolster our coffers."
Liu Zhang, unaware of the deeper machinations at play, beamed with pride. "Excellent suggestions! Send word to the generals immediately. Yan Yan and Zhang Ren shall handle the tribes, and Meng Huo will be brought to Chengdu to swear his loyalty before us."
The court applauded, their cheers masking the quiet satisfaction of Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da. Behind their loyal façades, they had begun laying the groundwork for delivering Yi Province as a gift to Lie Fan, ensuring their political survival and future prosperity.
In the days that followed, Meng Huo and his captured advisors were escorted to Chengdu. Along the way, they witnessed the disciplined order of Liu Zhang's forces and the prosperity of the Yi Province, a stark contrast to the rugged life of the Nanman territories. Meng Huo, though proud, could not help but feel a growing respect for the organization and governance of his captors.
Yan Yan and Zhang Ren treated their prisoners with dignity, a calculated move to sow goodwill among the remaining tribes. They allowed Meng Huo to address his people during their journey, encouraging them to accept the new order under Liu Zhang. While some tribesmen remained wary, others began to see the potential benefits of aligning with the more developed Yi Province.
Upon reaching Chengdu, Meng Huo and his entourage were paraded through the streets, not as trophies, but as honored guests. The city's residents, well aware of the strategic importance of this victory, lined the streets to witness the occasion.
In a grand ceremony, Meng Huo knelt before Liu Zhang in the court of Chengdu. The warlord, seated on his ornate throne, looked every bit the benevolent ruler. Flanked by Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da, Liu Zhang accepted Meng Huo's surrender with grace.
"Meng Huo," Liu Zhang declared, his voice resonating through the hall, "your bravery and loyalty to your people are commendable. But now is the time for unity. Together, we can bring prosperity to the Nanman tribes and the Yi Province as a whole."
Meng Huo, his pride tempered by the realities of defeat, responded solemnly. "I surrender not out of weakness, but for the sake of my people. I will serve you, Liu Zhang, and ensure that my tribes honor this agreement."
The court erupted in applause, the ceremony marking a pivotal moment in the consolidation of the Yi Province. Meng Huo's surrender not only solidified Liu Zhang's rule but also opened the door for greater integration of the Nanman tribes into Liu Zhang's administration.
As the court celebrated, Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da convened in private. Their plan was unfolding perfectly. By presenting Liu Zhang as a wise and capable leader, they ensured the province's stability while quietly preparing it for transition to Lie Fan's control.
"The south is secure," Fa Zheng noted with a sly smile. "Liu Zhang is more dependent on us than ever. When the time comes, the Yi Province will be ready for Lord Lie Fan's arrival in the future."
Meng Da nodded, his expression one of satisfaction. "Let Liu Zhang enjoy his moment of glory. It only strengthens our position. When the province changes hands, the people will see it as a natural progression, not a betrayal."
Zhang Song raised a cup of wine in a silent toast. "To the future of Yi Province and to our survival."
After the toast was exchanged between the three conspirators, Fa Zheng leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful yet calculating.
He swirled the wine in his cup before speaking again, his voice low but firm. "Meng Huo is a variable we cannot afford to ignore. His loyalty may waver once he realizes we are not acting solely in Liu Zhang's interests. If left unchecked, he could disrupt a peaceful handover and turn it into a violent rebellion."
Zhang Song and Meng Da, who had been savoring their moment of triumph, paused at Fa Zheng's words. His observation hung in the air like a storm cloud. Meng Da nodded slowly, placing his cup on the table. "You're right. Meng Huo is not a man to be underestimated. He commands respect among the southern tribes, and his influence extends far beyond what we've seen. If he senses betrayal, his pride alone could drive him to rebellion."
Zhang Song tapped a finger against the armrest of his chair, his sharp mind already racing to address the issue. "Then we must bring him into the fold," he said, his tone decisive. "Not as a mere subordinate, but as an ally, one who sees the benefits of aligning with us. If we can convince him that his people will prosper under Lie Fan's eventual rule, he may be more inclined to support the transition."
Fa Zheng's lips curled into a small smile. "Precisely. Meng Huo is a pragmatic man, despite his pride. He surrendered not out of weakness but for the survival of his people. If we appeal to that pragmatism and offer him a role in the future administration, he may become an asset rather than a threat."
Meng Da folded his arms, his eyes narrowing. "But what of Yan Yan and Zhang Ren? Their loyalty to Liu Zhang is unwavering. Even if Meng Huo joins us, those two could still derail our plans. They command the military, and while they respect us, their allegiance lies with Liu Zhang."
Zhang Song sighed, leaning forward as he addressed the group. "Yan Yan and Zhang Ren are indeed a challenge. Persuading them to join us would require careful manipulation. They are honorable men, not easily swayed by promises of power or wealth."
"However, if we can frame Lie Fan's ascension as a continuation of Liu Zhang's legacy, something that would ensure the stability and prosperity of Yi Province, they might reconsider."
Fa Zheng nodded but remained skeptical. "It's a long shot. Men like Yan Yan and Zhang Ren value loyalty above all else. If persuasion fails, we may need to consider more... permanent solutions. Removing them from their positions would be difficult, but not impossible."
Meng Da frowned, a flicker of unease crossing his face. "Eliminating them would destabilize the province, at least temporarily. Their troops are loyal to them, not us. If we act too hastily, we risk creating more enemies than allies."
Zhang Song raised a hand to calm his colleagues. "Let us not rush to such extremes. First, we focus on Meng Huo. If we can secure his support, the southern tribes will be a powerful counterbalance to any resistance from Yan Yan and Zhang Ren. Once Meng Huo is on our side, we'll reassess our approach to the generals."
The three conspirators spent the rest of the evening hashing out their plan. They decided to meet with Meng Huo in private, away from the prying eyes of Liu Zhang's court. Their aim was to present him with a vision of the future, one in which his people would thrive under Lie Fan's rule, with Meng Huo himself as a key figure in the new administration.
A week later, in a secluded chamber of the governor's palace, Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da convened with Meng Huo. The southern chieftain was seated at a sturdy wooden table, his imposing presence filling the room. Despite his captivity, Meng Huo exuded confidence, his sharp eyes scanning the three men before him.
"You've summoned me here," Meng Huo began, his voice steady but tinged with curiosity. "What is it you wish to discuss?"
Zhang Song spoke first, his tone cordial and respectful. "Meng Huo, your surrender was a testament to your wisdom. You recognized that resistance would only bring further suffering to your people. That same wisdom is why we wish to speak with you today."
Meng Huo leaned back, his expression unreadable. "Go on."
Fa Zheng took over, his words carefully chosen. "The Yi Province is at a crossroads. Under Liu Zhang's leadership, we have seen stability, but we believe the province's true potential lies in uniting with a greater vision, a vision led by Lord Lie Fan, a man who seeks to bring prosperity to all under his rule, including the Nanman tribes."
Meng Huo's brow furrowed, his skepticism evident. "You speak of unity, yet you would replace one ruler with another. What guarantee do I have that my people will not simply exchange one oppressor for another?"
Meng Da leaned forward, his voice earnest. "Lie Fan is no oppressor. He values the diverse cultures and strengths of those under his rule. Under his leadership, your tribes would not be subjugated, but integrated. Your people would retain their traditions while benefiting from trade, infrastructure, and security. And you, Meng Huo, would play a pivotal role in ensuring this unity."
_____________________________
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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___________________________
Meng Da leaned forward, his voice earnest. "Lie Fan is no oppressor. He values the diverse cultures and strengths of those under his rule. Under his leadership, your tribes would not be subjugated, but integrated. Your people would retain their traditions while benefiting from trade, infrastructure, and security. And you, Meng Huo, would play a pivotal role in ensuring this unity."
Meng Huo's gaze shifted between the three men, his expression thoughtful. "And what of Liu Zhang? Does he know of your intentions? About whatever the three of you were doing in the shadows?"
Zhang Song shook his head, his voice lowering. "Liu Zhang is a good man, but he lacks the courage, vision, and strength to lead Yi Province and the entire land into the future. Our loyalty to him is genuine, but we believe that for the greater good, the province must align with Lie Fan. This is not treachery, it is pragmatism."
The room fell silent as Meng Huo considered their words. Finally, he spoke, his tone measured. "I will not betray my people's trust. If I agree to your plan, it is because I believe it will benefit them, not because I am convinced by your promises. Show me proof of Lie Fan's intentions, and I will consider aligning with you."
Fa Zheng nodded, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. "You will have your proof, Meng Huo. In the meantime, let us work together to bring stability to the south. Your people's prosperity is our priority, and we will prove our commitment to that cause."
While their efforts with Meng Huo showed promise, Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da knew the generals posed an even greater challenge.
Of course, Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da would not take any immediate risks in persuading or eliminating Yan Yan and Zhang Ren, at least, not until the southern territories of Yi Province, the former domains of the Nanman tribes, were fully stabilized.
They understood the importance of patience and prudence. The integration of the Nanman tribes into Liu Zhang's administration was essential to ensure an upward flow in manpower, economy, and agriculture. Stability would not only reinforce their covert plans but also strengthen Yi Province as a whole, masking their true intentions.
In the days that followed, Yan Yan and Zhang Ren continued their work with the Nanman tribes, balancing diplomacy with subtle displays of military might. Treaties were signed, trade agreements were established, and tribal leaders were invited to Chengdu to witness firsthand the prosperity of Liu Zhang's governance.
The once-hostile tribes, seeing the benefits of cooperation, gradually began to integrate into the administration. Nanman warriors were conscripted into auxiliary units, while their lands were surveyed for agricultural potential and mineral wealth.
Meanwhile, Meng Huo, despite his surrender, remained a focal point of the conspirators' strategy. The southern chieftain was treated with respect and included in discussions on regional governance, reinforcing his perception of Liu Zhang's court as a cooperative partner rather than an overlord.
Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da took every opportunity to demonstrate their sincerity, subtly steering Meng Huo toward their vision of a unified Yi Province under Lie Fan's eventual rule.
While Yi Province underwent its transformation, significant advancements were also taking place in Jiangdong, the eastern lands under the Sun Clan's rule. Sun Ce and Sun Jian, convened with their trusted advisors, the "Four Pillars" consisting of Zhang Zhao, Zhang Hong, Huan Jie, and Zhou Yu, to assess the progress made in their domains.
Xu Zhuang, the head of Lie Fan's delegation sent as part of the agreement securing the Sun Clan's allegiance, had proven invaluable. His expertise in agricultural development had revolutionized farming practices in Jiangdong.
Tools designed for advanced irrigation and improved plowing techniques, coupled with plans for systematic crop rotation, had begun to yield remarkable results. Even the less fertile soils of Jiangdong were now capable of producing abundant harvests.
Xu Zhuang's team of specialists, tasked with training local farmers, worked tirelessly to disseminate their knowledge. Their efforts had a profound impact, as the farming population adapted to these new methods with enthusiasm.
The benefits were undeniable where greater yields meant more food for the populace, reducing hunger and mortality rates. Surpluses lowered the price of crops in the market, enabling even the poorest families to afford sustenance.
The burgeoning agricultural sector promised not only economic prosperity but also a substantial increase in population, as lower mortality rates and improved living conditions encouraged growth.
Sun Ce expressed his approval during the council meeting. "Xu Zhuang has delivered on Brother Lie Fan's promises. These advancements solidify our strength and provide a foundation for expansion. With our people fed and prosperous, we can focus on building a stronger army to defend Jiangdong and secure our future."
Zhang Zhao, the leader and elder of the Four Pillars, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, this cooperation with Lord Lie Fan has proven mutually beneficial. However, we must remain vigilant. While his gifts strengthen us, they also bind us closer to him. We should ensure that Jiangdong remains independent and capable of acting on its own interests, according to the allegiance treaty we had signed with him."
Zhou Yu, hearing Zhang Zhao's words, smirked. "Master Zhang Zhao is right to caution us, but let's not forget that Jiangdong's strength lies in its people and its leaders. Lord Lie Fan's resources are tools, it's up to us to wield them wisely. For now, these advancements are a boon we should embrace."
Sun Jian at this time spoke with measured authority. "Let us not lose sight of our goals. Jiangdong's prosperity and stability come first. If Lie Fan's vision aligns with ours, we support him. If not, we could just stay down and guard our domain, as long as we don't harm his interest Lie Fan wouldn't break our allegiance treaty and even support us even more."
The council ended with a sense of optimism tempered by caution. Xu Zhuang's contributions had undoubtedly strengthened Jiangdong, but the Sun Clan's leadership remained wary of becoming overly dependent on outside influence even if they had sworn allegiance to Lie Fan, as they were still an independent force with a smaller army and had a lord to serve, like a vassal.
Back in Chengdu, Zhang Song, Fa Zheng, and Meng Da's machinations were proceeding smoothly. With the Nanman tribes increasingly integrated into the province, they began redirecting resources and manpower to strengthen Yi Province's infrastructure.
Roads were built to connect the southern territories to Chengdu, facilitating trade and communication. Markets thrived as exotic goods from the Nanman lands flowed northward, enriching both the local economy and the conspirators' coffers.
Despite these successes, the conspirators remained acutely aware of the potential threats posed by Yan Yan and Zhang Ren. Their loyalty to Liu Zhang was unshakable, and their influence over the military made them formidable opponents.
However, Zhang Song counseled patience. "We must not act rashly. As long as Yan Yan and Zhang Ren see progress and stability, they will remain focused on their duties. Let us continue to strengthen the province while subtly isolating them politically."
Fa Zheng, ever pragmatic, agreed. "If we push too hard, we risk alienating the very generals we rely on to maintain order. For now, we let them serve Liu Zhang. Their loyalty to him blinds them to our plans, which works to our advantage."
Meng Da, though less patient, recognized the wisdom in their approach. "Very well. But we must remain vigilant. Any sign of suspicion from them, and we act decisively."
Meanwhile, Meng Huo continued to evolve from a defeated chieftain to a cooperative ally. Witnessing the prosperity of Yi Province firsthand, he began to see the potential benefits for his people.
The conspirators leveraged this transformation, presenting Meng Huo with opportunities to act as a mediator between the Nanman tribes and Liu Zhang's administration. They framed his role as one of leadership and partnership, subtly aligning him with their vision for the future.
Meanwhile between Liu Zhang's domain and the Sun Clan's domain, inside Liu Bei's capital Xiangyang, In the bustling halls of Xiangyang Governor's Castle, Ju Shou meticulously laid out his intrigue before Kuai Liang, Kuai Yue, and Wang Xiu.
The room was dimly lit, the flickering lanterns casting elongated shadows across the stone walls. The air was tense, laden with the weight of their deliberations. Ju Shou's plan was ambitious, bordering on audacious, but its potential to shift the balance of power was undeniable.
"Gentlemen," Ju Shou began, his voice measured and deliberate, "our objective is to weaken the fragile trust between Shi Xie and Sun Ce while simultaneously presenting Lord Liu Bei as the savior of Lingling. To achieve this, precision and subtlety are paramount. Here is how we proceed."
He unfurled a detailed map of the Lingling, tracing his finger along the boundaries of Lingling Shi Xie's territory and Lingling Sun Clan's territory. "We will deploy agents disguised as Sun Clan operatives, men whose identities and mannerisms align with those known to Shi Xie's informants. They will infiltrate Lingling part of the area that was under Shi Xie's control, ensuring their presence is noted by Shi Xie's men stationed there. Once apprehended, these 'spies' will carry fabricated evidence suggesting that Sun Ce plans to annex Lingling under the pretext of securing it from external threats."
Kuai Yue leaned forward, skepticism etched on his face. "This will undoubtedly raise Shi Xie's suspicions, but what ensures he takes the bait? He may choose diplomacy over action."
Ju Shou's lips curled into a confident smile. "Diplomacy is a virtue in times of stability, but suspicion clouds judgment. Shi Xie has long harbored concerns about Sun Ce's ambitions. We'll ensure the fabricated evidence leaves no room for doubt. Once he perceives a threat, his first instinct will be to reinforce Lingling with additional troops."
Kuai Liang nodded slowly, the gears turning in his mind. "And this violation of the agreement would undoubtedly provoke Sun Ce."
"Precisely," Ju Shou affirmed. "As Shi Xie strengthens his garrison in Lingling, we will deploy infiltrators to sow discord among his men. Disguised as agitators, they will instigate conflicts with the local populace, Sun Ce's stationed forces, and even Lord Liu Bei's men stationed there. The chaos will escalate to a point where intervention becomes necessary. When the time comes, Lord Liu Bei can send his forces to 'protect' Lingling under the guise of restoring order."
Wang Xiu, who had been silent thus far, stroked his beard thoughtfully. "The plan is ingenious, but it hinges on several variables such as Shi Xie's reaction, Sun Ce's response, and our ability to manage the fallout. What if any part of this plan falters?"
Ju Shou's expression hardened. "Every strategy carries risk. However, we will mitigate it by ensuring plausible deniability. If questioned, we can attribute the unrest to Shi Xie's mismanagement or rogue elements within his ranks. As for Sun Ce, his temperament will lead him to act impulsively. The friction between him and Shi Xie will buy us the time and justification we need to intervene."
Kuai Liang exchanged a glance with his brother Kuai Yue before speaking. "It is a dangerous game, but the rewards outweigh the risks. If successful, Lingling will fall into Lord Liu Bei's hands without direct conflict, expanding his domain and increasing his power in the region. Proceed, Ju Shou, but keep us informed of every development."
_____________________________
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!
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Have some idea about my story? Comment it and let me know.
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