"We have different paths and cannot scheme together," Chen Xi said with a hint of bitterness in his smile as he accompanied Zhuge Liang. "Some are driven by duty, others by strategies for power, and some by ideals. No wonder the ancient saying goes, 'A true friend is hard to find.'"
Zhuge Liang felt an emotional stir but did not take up the conversation. He quietly followed Chen Xi into the carriage. Upstairs, Zhuge Jin silently watched this scene, setting down the wine cup he was holding. He knew part of what Chen Xi had said was meant for him.
Watching the carriage slowly depart, Zhuge Jin raised his cup to the carriage at a distance, "Kongming, I hope you can succeed. The freedom you choose is not just for yourself alone, I too am burdened with more than my own duties. I hope the future of the Zhuge family can depend on you!"