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Chapter 644: Chen Gong's Choice
🕑 Added 2024-09-29 07:48:38 +0000 UTCChen Xi and Guo Jia both noticed that Chen Gong's hands were trembling and could not help but frown. They had not paid attention to what Chen Xi had said earlier, as they had overlooked certain details. Sometimes, habit is a powerful force, and even Guo Jia, with his extraordinary intelligence, was blinded by it.
In such a situation, the only person likely to notice the slip of the tongue would be someone like Jia Xu, who was never blinded by habit. His logical abilities were so meticulous that it was hard for him to make mistakes. However, if Jia Xu were here, he would probably be so ruthless that he would forcefully keep Chen Gong around to prevent any potential risks. After all, the scheme of using the world as a chessboard and all beings as pieces was their grand plan, and any mistake could not be tolerated, especially with the plan about to be executed this year. It couldn't be altered now.
This scheme could be said to be a super strategy created from Chen Xi's initial framework, filled in by others. It was on a completely different level from the small skirmishes of Xun Yu, Zhou Yu, and Tian Feng. Both Xun Yu’s plunder and Zhou Yu’s borrowing of power had considerable risks, while Tian Feng’s steady and methodical approach, despite a solid foundation, was too slow compared to the grand plan that Chen Xi and his team had devised.
The weakest among them were strategic geniuses at the national level. The entire grand plan began with Chen Xi's schemes and was later complemented by Jia Xu's manipulative tactics, Li You’s borrowing of power, and Guo Jia’s sabotage. Fa Zheng’s strategy of "desire to capture but letting go" allowed everyone to acknowledge his wisdom, which was why Fa Zheng, at only nineteen, could be appointed to a prominent position.
Then came Liu Ye and Lu Su, who continually refined the plan, erasing all traces of Mount Tai from the grand scheme and making all events appear perfectly reasonable. Each stage of their work was done with great care. Had Chen Xi not proposed the idea of controlling a region, the prepared Mount Tai might have already begun a world-shaking war with Yuan Shao.
Among the various lords, Liu Bei was undoubtedly the one with the most far-reaching plans. Mount Tai’s strategy was always about a hundred-year plan, never worried that it might not be implemented. Defeating Yuan Shao and pacifying the world was not just confidence or mere talk; it was a concrete victory. Any suggestion of unexpected events in the war was irrelevant—Yuan Shao was destined to lose.
Yuan Shao's foundation, whether the prosperous Ji Province or the balanced aristocratic relations, was all a facade. Ji Province's prosperity was part of Chen Xi's elaborate plan, and the aristocracy’s stability was the result of Guo Jia’s manipulations. Without these two advantages, Yuan Shao had nothing.
On the other hand, among the lords, Yuan Shao was the only one who had been schemed against twice; others, including Cao Cao, had merely been led into traps. This demonstrates Yuan Shao’s strength. Chen Xi also knew that to activate these strategies, enough strength must be demonstrated. Otherwise, even if Zhang and Liu Bei were closely allied, it would be meaningless.
Aristocratic families would sacrifice anyone, including the head of the family, for their interests. This is why Chen Xi did not want to reside in the Chen family estate—he did not want to be swayed by family intentions.
The pieces on the northern board were arranged by Chen Xi and Guo Jia, and they were confident they could be activated. If the pieces turned against them, it would be tragic. Therefore, they had prepared other measures, though they had not mentioned them explicitly. Liu Bei's side was also prepared.
"Gongtai, why are your hands trembling?" Chen Xi asked curiously.
"I am trembling with excitement at the thought of my friend Fengxian returning to Bingzhou and achieving more victories for the Han Dynasty," Chen Gong replied with composure.
"Then I wish you success, and perhaps one day we may serve in the same court," Chen Xi said with a smile.
"Indeed, I look forward to that day," Chen Gong replied with a smile. "Now that the important matters are discussed and Yuan Shao’s army has withdrawn, we have no more grievances between our armies. Let’s talk about more pleasant things."
"Haha, Gongtai has a good spirit," Chen Xi laughed. "Since we’ve cleared things up, our two armies have no major conflicts. Moreover, with Wen Hou willing to campaign against the Hu people and reclaim the He Tao, it’s only reasonable and just that we are not hostile. I’ll have refreshments and a banquet prepared. Let’s eat and chat."
Chen Xi, upon receiving Chen Gong's gesture of defection, instantly understood its meaning, and Guo Jia also appeared pleased.
During the banquet, the atmosphere was lively and enjoyable. After discerning the situation, Chen Gong had no more reservations and focused on pleasing his hosts.
"Lord Chen, it’s a pity that I need to go to Bingzhou; otherwise, I would definitely visit Mount Tai. I’ve been stationed in Yanzhou for years, and I often hear that Mount Tai changes three times a month. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to see it. What a pity," Chen Gong said with regret.
"That’s not difficult. Gongtai, you can accompany me to Mount Tai," Chen Xi said with a smile. "The splendor of Mount Tai will surely astonish you."
"I believe that, but unfortunately, Fengxian cannot leave me," Chen Gong shook his head and said. "Once my friend Fengxian has pacified He Tao, I believe I will be able to fulfill my wish. Please remember today’s banquet at that time."
"Gongtai, don’t say that," Chen Xi said sternly, sensing the ominous tone. "Come, let’s raise our glasses. Here’s to Wen Hou’s success in pacifying He Tao and expanding the Han Dynasty’s territory!"
After a round of toasts, Guo Jia and Chen Xi had no doubts about Chen Gong’s intentions. He truly wanted to join Liu Bei’s side, which was good news. As for Lü Bu, returning to Bingzhou was indeed a good choice. The righteousness of the nation could cleanse any impurities, covering up other discordant aspects.
As they were about to part ways, Chen Xi and Guo Jia escorted Chen Gong out of the camp. After bowing, Chen Xi said, "Gongtai, if you need anything, remember to ask. Mount Tai can generally fulfill your needs. When you arrive in the north, think carefully about your future path with Wen Hou."
"Lord Chen, rest assured. Before I and Fengxian leave, I will give you a satisfactory response," Chen Gong said, standing by his carriage.
"No, you have plenty of time. Take your time to think," Chen Xi smiled. "Don’t rush."
Chen Gong smiled, did not respond, and after a long time said, "I’m leaving. Thank you for your care. I believe the day we serve in the same court is not far off."
"This guy is even more confident than us," Chen Xi muttered as Chen Gong left.
"I’m also quite puzzled," Guo Jia said, taking a sip of wine.
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Comments
Ariq Naufal Hudzaifah
It's gongtai, Chen Gong courtesy name. I have changed it.
Ripqi Sani
Public Tai?
