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___________________________
Over the following days, the integration of the Gongsun Clan's territory into Lie Fan's domain progressed rapidly. Merchant caravans began traversing the newly connected routes, bringing goods from all parts of Lie Fan's domain to the northeast and vice versa. Exotic wares from Goguryeo started appearing in much large number in the markets inside Lie Fan's domain, drawing crowds eager to glimpse and purchase these foreign treasures.
Meanwhile, in Gungnae, the grand capital of Goguryeo, King Sansang sat at the head of a long table, his face shadowed by a mix of anxiety and contemplation. Beside him, Queen Woo maintained a poised demeanor, her keen eyes betraying the sharp intellect behind them.
Around them sat Mo Du, King Sansang's trusted and seasoned chief advisor, and Dal Gae, a younger but no less astute advisor. The room was heavy with the scent of incense, and the air carried the weight of a pressing matter, the growing power of Lie Fan.
King Sansang broke the silence, his voice firm but tinged with frustration. "Gongsun Gong and Lie Fan have solidified their power and expanded their domain once more. Yuan Shao, a name that once echoed across the land of the Han, has been defeated. And not in a drawn-out campaign, but swiftly, decisively. What does this mean for us?"
Mo Du, whose white beard and wrinkled brow spoke of years of experience, leaned forward. "It means, Your Majesty, that the situation is more dire than we anticipated. Yuan Shao's defeat removes a buffer between Goguryeo and this burgeoning northern power. With Lie Fan's resources, organization, and military might, we are bound tighter to his will as a tributary."
Dal Gae interjected, his youthful vigor evident. "But this is precisely why we must act now. We cannot afford to sit idly while their power grows unchecked. The merchants we have allowed through our lands to trade in Gongsun Gong's and Lie Fan's domains have provided invaluable intelligence. We must continue to use this information to understand their strengths and their weaknesses."
Queen Woo, her voice measured and calm, spoke up. "The merchants' reports are clear, Lie Fan's domain is not only vast but also meticulously organized. His governance ensures stability, and his military victories inspire loyalty among his subordinates. Even Gongsun Gong, who once governed autonomously, now stands as an extension of Lie Fan's will. What do you propose, Dal Gae? A confrontation? Diplomacy? Or something subtler?"
Dal Gae hesitated, sensing the sharpness in her tone. "Not direct confrontation, my queen. That would be unwise. But we could foster unrest in the territories near our borders. There must be dissent among Lie Fan's new subjects. Perhaps we can exploit it."
King Sansang frowned, his hand gripping the armrest of his chair. "Dissent? In a domain as vast and newly unified as his, perhaps. But any unrest would be minimal, and Lie Fan has proven himself adept at quelling such disruptions. What of the possibility of aligning ourselves with other powers? Surely not all within the Han lands are content with Lie Fan's rise."
Mo Du stroked his beard thoughtfully. "A delicate balance, Your Majesty. While it is true that alliances could shift, we must tread carefully. A single misstep could draw Lie Fan's wrath prematurely. For now, our priority should be strengthening our internal position. If the flow of trade continues as it has, we may use the profits to bolster our army and improve our defenses."
Queen Woo nodded in agreement. "Mo Du speaks wisely. Strengthen from within, but keep our ears to the ground. Dal Gae, continued gathering intelligence through the merchants. We must remain informed about Lie Fan's movements and intentions. Knowledge will be our greatest weapon."
King Sansang nodded solemnly, absorbing the wisdom in Mo Du's and Queen Woo's words. The atmosphere in the room shifted as his expression hardened with determination.
"The two of you speak with reason," he said, his tone resolute. "The prosperity we enjoy now is undeniable, thanks to the trade flowing through our lands. But this wealth comes at a cost, the cost of our sovereignty. Lie Fan's dominance grows, and while his riches fill our coffers, they also bind us to his will. We must prepare for the day when this gilded leash tightens further. Mo Du, and Dal Gae, execute the plans we have discussed. Strengthen our defenses, gather intelligence, and fortify our position."
He paused, his gaze shifting to Dal Gae. "What of the merchants in Xiapi? Have they discovered anything about the 'gunpowder' we have heard of? This substance could be the key to breaking free from Lie Fan's grasp."
Dal Gae, hearing this, lowered his head. "Your Majesty, the merchants have sent letters detailing their efforts, but the trail has gone cold. They have pursued every lead and explored every corner of Xiapi's bustling markets, but the substance remains elusive. All clues they followed have yielded nothing but dead ends."
King Sansang's frown deepened, and a wave of frustration swept through the room. Mo Du broke the silence, his voice calm but firm. "If this 'gunpowder' is as powerful as the rumors suggest, it is no surprise that Lie Fan and his subordinates guard its secrets closely. But this does not mean the search should end. Persistence is key."
Queen Woo nodded in agreement, her sharp gaze resting on Dal Gae. "Inform the merchants that their efforts are far from over. They must continue the investigation with renewed vigor. Promise them that their loyalty and success will not go unrewarded. Should they bring us this 'gunpowder,' their families will be exempt from taxes for five generations, and they will receive unparalleled support for their enterprises. Make it clear that this is not just a royal decree, it is an opportunity to secure their legacies."
King Sansang leaned forward, his voice carrying the weight of his authority. "This is no mere task, Dal Gae. It is a mission of utmost importance. We cannot underestimate the potential of this weapon. If it falls into our hands, it will change the balance of power in our favor. Ensure the merchants understand this."
Dal Gae bowed deeply. "It shall be done, Your Majesty. I will see to it that they redouble their efforts."
With the matter of gunpowder addressed, the discussion turned to more immediate concerns. Mo Du spoke next, his tone measured. "Your Majesty, while we pursue long-term strategies, we must address our current needs. The influx of trade has brought great wealth to our kingdom, but it has also exposed weaknesses in our infrastructure. Roads, warehouses, and marketplaces must be expanded and improved to handle the increased traffic. Additionally, the loyalty of our generals and officials must be reinforced. Wealth can breed complacency and corruption if left unchecked."
Queen Woo added, "The people must see that their king is investing in their future. Visible improvements to infrastructure and governance will strengthen their faith in your rule. At the same time, we must ensure that key figures in our administration remain loyal and disciplined."
King Sansang nodded, issuing orders with decisive clarity. "Dal Gae, oversee the expansion of our infrastructure. Roads must be widened, warehouses constructed, and marketplaces enhanced to support the growing trade. Ensure that these projects are carried out efficiently and with minimal disruption to the people."
He turned to Mo Du. "You will take charge of the military. Conduct regular drills to maintain readiness and discipline among our troops. Additionally, fortifications along our borders must be reinforced, quietly. We cannot afford to draw unnecessary attention from Lie Fan or his subordinates. Let this be a priority."
Mo Du bowed, his expression resolute. "Your will would be done, Your Majesty."
As the meeting continued, the scent of incense mingled with the resolve that filled the room. Discussions moved seamlessly from one topic to the next, covering every aspect of governance, security, and strategy.
The advisors proposed measures to tighten internal security, prevent espionage, and foster unity among the people. Queen Woo emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy, suggesting that Goguryeo send emissaries to neighboring states to strengthen alliances and gather intelligence.
King Sansang listened intently, his mind racing with the weight of his responsibilities. He knew that the prosperity Goguryeo now enjoyed was fragile, a veneer that masked the underlying tensions of their tributary status. Every decision he made was a step toward either securing their independence or falling further into subjugation.
As the meeting drew to a close, King Sansang rose from his seat. His voice, steady and commanding, echoed through the chamber. "The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but we shall not falter. Goguryeo will not be a pawn in the ambitions of others. We will strengthen our kingdom, protect our people, and prepare for whatever lies ahead. Mo Du a d Dal Gae, your loyalty and wisdom are the pillars of our strength. Together, we will ensure that Goguryeo not only survives but thrives."
The advisors bowed deeply, their expressions a mix of determination and respect. As the doors to the chamber opened and the meeting concluded, the weight of their mission lingered in the air. Goguryeo's future was uncertain, but under King Sansang's leadership, it was a future they were determined to shape.
In the days that followed after the meeting, the kingdom sprang into action. Merchant caravans continued to flow through Goguryeo's lands, carrying both goods and intelligence. Roads were repaired and widened, and construction crews worked tirelessly to build new warehouses and marketplaces.
Soldiers drilled relentlessly, their movements precise and disciplined. Along the borders, fortifications rose quietly, their presence hidden from prying eyes.
At the heart of it all was King Sansang, a ruler determined to safeguard his kingdom's sovereignty. His gaze turned often toward the horizon, where the shadow of Lie Fan's growing power loomed large. But within that shadow, he saw not just a threat but an opportunity, a chance for Goguryeo to rise above its limitations and claim its destiny.
"We will endure," he said to Queen Woo one evening as they stood on the palace balcony, gazing out over the bustling city below. "And when the time comes, we will rise. Goguryeo will be free."
Queen Woo placed a hand on his arm, her gaze steady. "Yes, Your Majesty. But for now, we must be patient. Strength is built in silence, and victory is earned through vigilance."
As the stars shone above Gungnae, the kingdom stood at a crossroads. The decisions made in would shape the future of Goguryeo, determining whether it would remain a tributary or emerge once again as a power capable of challenging the mighty Lie Fan. For now, the kingdom would wait, watch, and prepare. But in the depths of King Sansang's heart burned a quiet resolve, Goguryeo would not bow forever.
_____________________________
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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___________________________
As the stars shone above Gungnae, the kingdom stood at a crossroads. The decisions made in would shape the future of Goguryeo, determining whether it would remain a tributary or emerge once again as a power capable of challenging the mighty Lie Fan. For now, the kingdom would wait, watch, and prepare. But in the depths of King Sansang's heart burned a quiet resolve, Goguryeo would not bow forever.
But what King Sansang didn't realize was that every step he took was being monitored. The Oriole agents, a shadowy network of spies loyal to Lie Fan, had infiltrated deeply into Goguryeo and he had never notice them.
Xu Kai, who was assigned there to mastermind the network's expansion, remained stationed in Gungnae, methodically weaving a web of informants and operatives that now spanned much of Goguryeo's territory. Every order King Sansang issued, every plan his advisors devised, was quietly documented and transmitted to Xu Kai.
In the heart of Gungnae, nestled among the bustling streets, an ordinary-looking tavern served as the hub of Xu Kai's operations. The unassuming facade hid a complex network of covert activity. Inside, Xu Kai sat in a dimly lit room, meeting with a middle-level official from Goguryeo's finance department. The man, visibly uneasy, glanced around the room before taking a seat across from Xu Kai.
The official's name was Eul Bok, a once-loyal servant of Goguryeo who had been turned by Xu Kai's promises of wealth and the safety of his younger sister. The latter was under threat from an influential nobleman whose advances she had spurned.
Xu Kai had exploited Eul Bok's desperation, offering protection and opportunity in exchange for information about Goguryei's financial situation, an important information Xu Kai needs to evaluate Goguryeo's level of threat and whenever he needed to suggest to his lord to increase the amount of Goguryeo's tribute.
"Speak," Xu Kai commanded, his tone calm but authoritative.
Eul Bok leaned forward, lowering his voice. "The treasury is flourishing, thanks to the trade flowing from Lie Fan's domain and the markets of Gongsun Gong. Revenues have surged, and the king is storing the wealth securely. However, I've discovered records indicating that a portion of the funds is being redirected to fortify border defenses. The construction is discreet, but it's happening."
Xu Kai's expression didn't change, but his mind raced. "Good. Continue monitoring the treasury. If you find opportunities to redirect some of those funds to us, take them. My agents will cover your tracks. For every successful transfer, you will receive a quarter of the amount as your reward."
Eul Bok hesitated, then nodded. The lure of wealth and his sister's safety outweighed his lingering guilt. "I understand. I will do as you say as long as you keep your promise."
Their conversation was interrupted as an Oriole agent entered the room without knocking. The agent, a wiry man with sharp eyes, addressed Xu Kai in Chinese, ensuring Eul Bok couldn't understand. "Master Xu, we have new intelligence. King Sansang is accelerating his efforts. He has ordered the expansion of infrastructure, the fortification of borders, and an intensified search for the substance that Lord Lie Fan had protected named gunpowder. These movements are detailed here." He handed Xu Kai a small leather-bound book.
Xu Kai took the book, his eyes scanning the detailed reports. Each page chronicled King Sansang's actions, from the deployment of laborers to the discreet movement of troops. The precision of the intelligence impressed even Xu Kai. His network was growing stronger by the day.
He turned to Eul Bok. "Our business is concluded for now. Continue your work, and await further instructions."
Eul Bok stood, bowed slightly, and left the room, his footsteps fading into the din of the tavern. Once he was gone, Xu Kai flipped through the book again, his mind piecing together the broader picture.
"King Sansang is clever," Xu Kai muttered to the agent. "He's using the wealth from lord Lie Fan's trade routes and Gongsun Gong's domain to build his defenses, hoping to prepare for eventual conflict. But he underestimates how deeply we've infiltrated his kingdom."
The agent nodded. "Shall we move to sabotage their efforts, Master Xu?"
"Not yet," Xu Kai replied, closing the book with a decisive snap. "Let him build. Let him fortify. The more he invests in these projects, the more resources we can drain from within. And when the time comes, his own preparations will serve us instead of him."
Xu Kai leaned back, a faint smile playing on his lips. "But keep a close watch on this gunpowder search. If Goguryeo succeeds in obtaining it, it could shift the balance of power. Ensure that our agents remain embedded among their merchants. If any lead emerges, we must act swiftly to intercept it."
The agent bowed and left, leaving Xu Kai alone with his thoughts. The small room seemed to grow quieter, the weight of the unfolding strategy settling like a tangible presence. Xu Kai knew that the game he played was a dangerous one, but he also knew that patience and precision were the keys to victory.
In the days that followed, Xu Kai's network intensified its operations. Agents embedded in Goguryeo's bureaucracy reported on the progress of infrastructure projects, while others monitored military movements. Merchants under Xu Kai's employ mingled with Goguryeo's traders, spreading subtle misinformation and quietly gathering intelligence.
Meanwhile, Eul Bok continued his work in the treasury, carefully skimming funds under Xu Kai's guidance. The stolen money was funneled through a series of clandestine channels, eventually reaching Xu Kai's hands. True to his word, Xu Kai ensured that Eul Bok received his share, further binding the man to his cause.
King Sansang remained unaware of the extent of the infiltration. His focus was on strengthening his kingdom, rallying his advisors, and preparing for the challenges ahead. But the very prosperity he sought to harness was being used against him, his every move shadowed by Xu Kai's agents.
Back in the tavern, Xu Kai sat alone, a map of Goguryeo spread before him. He studied the marked locations of fortifications, trade routes, and key administrative centers. Each mark represented an opportunity, a potential weakness to exploit.
"Lord Lie Fan will be pleased," Xu Kai murmured to himself. "Goguryeo believes it is preparing for independence, but it is merely tightening the noose around its own neck."
After saying so, Xu Kai ordered his agents to create multiple copies of the map and dispatch them discreetly to Jia Xu in Xiapi. These maps, laden with precise details of Goguryeo's infrastructure, fortifications, and troop placements, were to be stored securely and studied meticulously.
Xu Kai trusted Jia Xu's alongside the other advisors strategic brilliance to transform the gathered intelligence into plans for both offense and defense. The stakes were high, but the Oriole network had proven its worth time and again.
Meanwhile, inside the governor's castle at Zhongshan, the atmosphere was charged with triumph and anticipation. Lie Fan, flanked by his generals and advisors, presided over a war council.
The room was alive with the clinking of armor, the rustle of maps being unfurled, and the low hum of discussions. Gathered around the grand table were Sima Yi, Xun You, Zhao Yun, Zhang Liao, Man Chong, Huang Zhong, Liu Ba, Dian Wei, and Chen Deng. Each bore the weight of their respective responsibilities, their expressions reflecting both pride and vigilance.
The decisive victory they had against Yuan Shao had bolstered their spirits. Lie Fan's forces had dismantled the once-mighty Yuan Clan, capturing an abundance of spoils, including treasures from the Yuan family treasury. The victory not only expanded Lie Fan's domain significantly but also solidified his reputation as the one who possibly will unite the fractured lands of the Han and create a new dynasty.
Lie Fan stood at the head of the table, his commanding presence drawing the attention of everyone in the room. His sharp eyes scanned the group before he began. "With Yuan Shao defeated, we have achieved a monumental victory. However, this triumph brings with it new responsibilities and challenges. The expansion of our domain demands heightened security, especially along our borders. We cannot afford complacency."
He gestured toward the maps spread across the table. "All of our northern and western domain now borders with Cao Cao, who was a cunning and ambitious adversary. Additionally, Liu Bei continues to consolidate his power in the south. We must be prepared to defend our territories while maintaining the momentum of our expansion."
Lie Fan turned to Huang Zhong and Liu Ba. "The Qinlong Army will be stationed at Julu. It is a critical border region with Cao Cao's domain. Huang Zhong, your experience in leading troops will ensure the stability and security of the region. Liu Ba, your administrative skills will support the logistical needs of the army and the governance of Julu and its surrounding area."
Both men bowed, acknowledging their orders. Huang Zhong feeling the wight if the responsibility spoke firmly. "You have my word, my lord. Julu will be secure."
Next, Lie Fan addressed Dian Wei and Man Chong. "The Baihu Army will be stationed at Chenliu, another key border region with Cao Cao's territory. Dian Wei, use your strength and ferocity to keep Cao Cao army at the border, and I trust you to lead the troops with unwavering discipline. Man Chong, your wisdom will ensure that the region remains stable under our control."
Dian Wei thumped his chest in affirmation. "I'll make sure no enemy dares to cross into Chenliu, my lord."
Man Chong nodded, his calm demeanor belying the sharp mind at work. "The region will be well-managed, and the army's needs will be met without fail."
Lie Fan then turned his attention to the Zhuque and Xuanwu Armies, though their leaders, Taishi Ci, Bu Zhi, Zhang Chao, and Zang Hong, were currently away. "The Zhuque Army will remain stationed at Henei to safeguard our border against Cao Cao. Taishi Ci and Bu Zhi have proven their mettle time and again. As for the Xuanwu Army, it will be stationed at Wan, where it will act as a bulwark against both Cao Cao and Liu Bei."
Sima Yi, who had been quietly observing, leaned forward to speak. "My lord, these deployments are strategically sound. However, we must also consider the internal management of our newly acquired territories. The people will need reassurance that our rule brings stability and prosperity. This will require a combination of military presence and administrative oversight."
Lie Fan nodded. "You are right, Zhongda. Stability is not achieved by force alone. Yuanlong, I will rely on you alongside Zichu and Boning to oversee the integration of these territories into our administration. Work closely with the local officials to ensure a smooth transition."
Chen Deng bowed deeply. "As you command, my lord. I alongside Master Liu Ba and Master Man Chong will ensure that the people see the benefits of the governance under your rule, and ensure the transition and integration worked swiftly."
_____________________________
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!
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I tagged this book, come and support me with a thumbs up!
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