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The Oriole Agents stationed throughout the city reported back to him regularly, ensuring that he was aware of his guests' movements and observations. Lie Fan welcomed their scrutiny. He knew that transparency was vital to earning their trust, especially when dealing with minds as sharp as theirs.
As he worked, his thoughts drifted to the conversation in the audience chamber. Zhuge Liang's questions had been pointed but fair, reflecting the meticulous nature he has. Pang Tong's probing inquiry about power was equally insightful, revealing a keen understanding of the challenges of leadership. Xu Shu's cautious pragmatism rounded out the trio, making them a formidable team.
Lie Fan allowed himself a brief smile. He would meet their evaluations head-on. After all, he had nothing to hide. As night fell, Zhuge Liang, Pang Tong, and Xu Shu returned to the guest quarters prepared for them within the castle. The accommodations were modest yet comfortable, a reflection of Lie Fan's balanced approach to hospitality, thoughtful but not extravagant.
Over a shared meal, the three men discussed their initial impressions. "The city's prosperity is undeniable," Xu Shu began, his tone measured. "But as we've seen in history, prosperity alone is not enough. The true test of governance lies in times of adversity."
Pang Tong nodded, his expression contemplative. "Lie Fan's responses today were impressive, but they were also calculated. He knows what we're looking for, and he's playing his role well. The question is whether that role reflects his true nature."
Zhuge Liang, who had been quietly sipping his tea, finally spoke. "Lord Lie Fan is a man of ambition, but ambition tempered by a genuine desire to improve the lives of his people. At least, that was the man I knew some time ago before leaving Xiapi. Whether he remains that man is what we must determine."
The conversation continued late into the night, the three strategists analyzing every detail of their interactions with Lie Fan and their observations of the city. By the time they retired, their resolve was clear, they would observe, question, and evaluate until they were certain of Lie Fan's worthiness.
The following days were a flurry of activity. Lie Fan ensured that Zhuge Liang, Pang Tong, and Xu Shu were given access to various facets of Xiapi's administration.
They visited the academy, where young scholars were being trained in governance and military strategy, toured the bustling markets, and spoke with local officials and citizens.
At every turn, they saw evidence of a well-run city. The people spoke highly of Lie Fan, praising his fairness and dedication. The officials, while respectful, were not sycophantic, indicating a healthy balance of power within the administration.
For Pang Tong and Xu Shu, who were seeing Xiapi for the first time, the experience was eye opening. For Zhuge Liang, it was a reminder of why he had been so impressed by Lie Fan during his first stay.
One evening, as the three strategists gathered to discuss their findings, Xu Shu voiced a thought that had been on his mind. "Kongming, you knew Xiapi was thriving. Why did you not return earlier?"
Zhuge Liang's gaze was steady. "Because it was not yet time. Xiapi may have prospered, but the land remains divided. I needed to be sure that Lie Fan's vision extended beyond these walls, that his ambition was not confined to personal gain but aimed at uniting the realm."
Pang Tong leaned back, a faint smile on his lips. "And now?"
Zhuge Liang's expression softened. "Now, I believe we are closer to finding that answer, and I feel all of us including our masters will be satisfied with the answer."
Pang Tong and Xu Shu exchanged a glance, their unspoken understanding passing between them like a quiet current. Zhuge Liang had already arrived at his conclusion, and it was evident in his demeanor.
The subtle confidence in his tone, the way he spoke of Lie Fan's vision, it all pointed to a decision that aligned with his values and his masters' expectations. Yet, Zhuge Liang had not explicitly shared his verdict, leaving his companions to infer his thoughts.
Still, there was no mistaking the direction this journey was taking. Both Pang Tong and Xu Shu could sense that their evaluation of Lie Fan might yield the same results as Zhuge Liang's. What remained now was to finalize their observations and prepare their report.
As the days passed, Xiapi buzzed with excitement and purpose. The upcoming marriage between Sima Yi and Wannian, Lie Fan's younger sister, had captured the city's imagination.
The announcement had come just weeks before the ceremony, and the citizens of Xiapi had embraced it with enthusiasm. The city, already prosperous and orderly, now radiated an atmosphere of joy and festivity. Lanterns adorned the streets, vendors prepared special goods for the occasion, and performers practiced routines to entertain the public.
At the heart of these preparations were Lie Fan's four wives,Ying Yue, Diao Chan, Cai Wenji, and Lu Lingqi. Each woman brought her unique skills and sensibilities to the task, working tirelessly to ensure that the event would be flawless.
Ying Yue, as his main wive, oversaw the logistics, coordinating with officials and ensuring that supplies arrived on time. Diao Chan focused on the aesthetics, her keen eye ensuring that every decoration reflected the grandeur of the occasion while teaching Wannian.
Cai Wenji managed the music and entertainment, curating performances that would capture the cultural richness of Xiapi. Lu Lingqi, as the only one with martial background, handled security, ensuring that the event would proceed without disruption.
Lie Fan had entrusted the preparations to his wives, confident in their abilities to execute the grand celebration. While he continued to oversee governance and manage external affairs, he made it a point to check in with them, offering support and sharing moments of lightheartedness amid the whirlwind of activity.
Meanwhile, inside the Sima Clan residence, Sima Yi finally found a moment to reconnect with his best friend, Zhuge Liang. Ever since his return to Xiapi, Zhuge Liang had been occupied with his task, and Sima Yi had been equally busy managing his own responsibilities, which had piled up after accompanying Lie Fan on his recent campaigns.
Zhuge Liang arrived at the residence accompanied by Pang Tong and Xu Shu. He had intended to introduce his two companions to both Sima Yi and Lu Xun, but with Lu Xun currently en route from Lujiang, the introduction would have to wait. Still, Sima Yi's presence alone was a welcome reunion.
As the group entered the residence, Sima Yi greeted them warmly, his usual composed demeanor softening into a genuine smile. "Kongming, it feels like an eternity since we last spoke. I had heard of your arrival, but my duties kept me tied down. Forgive me for not seeking you out sooner."
Zhuge Liang returned the smile, his tone light. "There is nothing to forgive, Zhongda. We are all bound by our responsibilities. But it is good to see you again."
Sima Yi's eyes shifted to Pang Tong and Xu Shu, his curiosity evident. "And these must be your companions?"
Zhuge Liang gestured toward them. "Indeed. This is Pang Tong, styled Shiyuan, and Xu Shu, styled Yuanzhi. Both are brilliant scholars and strategists in their own right."
Pang Tong, as direct as always, rinclined his head slightly, his expression carrying a hint of mischief. "So, you're the famous Zhongda. Kongming speaks highly of you. I trust you live up to his praise?"
Sima Yi chuckled, unfazed by Pang Tong's playful challenge. "I can only hope I've earned his regard. And you, Shiyuan, have quite the reputation yourself. It's an honor to meet you."
Xu Shu offered a polite bow. "The honor is ours, Zhongda. Kongming has spoken of your intellect and your dedication. It's clear that Xiapi is home to many exceptional minds."
The conversation flowed naturally as the four men settled into the courtyard. Sima Yi ordered tea to be brought, and the group began to exchange stories. Zhuge Liang recounted his journey back to Xiapi and the events that had transpired since their last meeting, while Sima Yi shared updates on his work and the city's progress.
At one point, Sima Yi leaned forward, his tone growing more serious. "Kongming, I must ask, what are your thoughts on Xiapi now that you've returned? Has it changed much from the city you left behind?"
Zhuge Liang considered the question carefully. "Xiapi has grown, Zhongda. It is more prosperous, more orderly. But its essence remains the same. The vision that Lord Lie Fan set into motion some time ago has only matured. It is a testament to his leadership and the dedication of those who serve him, including you."
Sima Yi's expression softened, and he nodded. "Lord Lie Fan is a remarkable leader. But you, too, have changed, Kongming. There's a depth to your insights that was not as evident when we were younger. I look forward to seeing how your path unfolds."
Pang Tong, leaning back in his chair with a wry grin, turned to Sima Yi. "Zhongda, I must say, you've built quite a reputation for yourself. But tell me, how do you handle the balance between serving someone as ambitious as Lie Fan and maintaining your own aspirations?"
Sima Yi's expression grew thoughtful. "It's not without its challenges, Shiyuan. But Lord Lie Fan's vision aligns with my own in many ways. His ambition isn't driven by greed or personal gain, it's rooted in a desire to create order in a fractured land. Serving under him allows me to contribute meaningfully to that cause."
Xu Shu nodded in agreement, his tone measured. "That's a rare quality in a leader. Many claim to seek unity, but few are willing to put the needs of their people above their own."
Zhuge Liang, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke. "Zhongda, your loyalty to Lord Lie Fan is evident. But tell me, how do you perceive his ability to adapt? The road to unification is fraught with uncertainty, and even the best laid plans can falter."
Sima Yi met Zhuge Liang's gaze, his eyes reflecting a mixture of respect and conviction. "Lord Lie Fan is a pragmatic leader. He listens to counsel, values merit, and isn't afraid to adjust his strategies. That adaptability, combined with his vision, is what makes him a formidable figure."
After Sima Yi answering Pang Tong, the conversation turned to lighter topics, with the men sharing stories of their past experiences. Zhuge Liang recounted humorous anecdotes from their days at the Xiapi Academy, drawing laughter from everyone. The camaraderie among the group deepened, a testament to the mutual respect and understanding they shared.
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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