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Sima Yi agreed. "That is precisely what I was thinking. We need to present a united front and make it clear that any deviation from Lord Lie Fan's original terms will have consequences. At the same time, we should explore ways to address some of their concerns without compromising our objectives."
The three advisors spent the next several hours discussing their strategy, their combined intellects weaving a plan that was both bold and calculated.
They analyzed every aspect of Goguryeo's counterproposal, identifying areas where they could make minor concessions without undermining their overall goals.
They also discussed ways to strengthen their negotiating position, such as increasing military presence along the border and leveraging the Oriole Agents to gather more intelligence on Goguryeo's internal dynamics.
"One thing is clear," Zhuge Liang said, his voice steady. "We cannot allow Goguryeo to form alliances with Baekje, Gaya, and Silla. If they succeed in creating a united front, it will complicate our efforts to secure the region. We must use every tool at our disposal to prevent that from happening."
Pang Tong, ever the contrarian, added, "And if they refuse to see reason, we'll just have to show them the error of their ways. But let's hope it doesn't come to that."
Sima Yi chuckled softly, appreciating Pang Tong's pragmatism. "Indeed, Shiyuan. Our goal is to achieve a peaceful resolution, but we must be prepared for all eventualities."
As the discussion continued, the three advisors refined their strategy, ensuring that every possible scenario was accounted for. By the time they concluded, they had developed a comprehensive plan that combined diplomacy, strategic pressure, and military readiness.
The next morning, Sima Yi, Zhuge Liang, and Pang Tong met with Gongsun Gong to brief him on their strategy. The governor listened intently, his respect for the three advisors evident in his demeanor. "Your plan is sound," Gongsun Gong said, his tone resolute. "I will ensure that Xiangping's defenses are strengthened and that our troops are ready to act if necessary."
After the meeting with Gongsun Gong, Sima Yi made his way to the residence where Li Wei and his guards were staying. The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the streets of Xiangping, but Sima Yi's mind was focused on the task at hand.
He knew that the upcoming negotiations with Goguryeo would be a delicate and high-stakes affair, and he wanted to ensure that Li Wei, who had been handling the matter until now, was fully briefed and prepared to assist him.
As Sima Yi approached the residence, the guards stationed outside immediately recognized him and stepped aside, allowing him to enter without question.
One of the guards escorted him through the courtyard and toward the study where Li Wei was working. The atmosphere inside the residence was quiet but tense, a reflection of the weight of the mission that had brought them all to Xiangping.
When the door to the study was knocked and opened, Li Wei looked up from the scrolls spread across his desk. His expression shifted from concentration to surprise as he saw Sima Yi standing in the doorway, flanked by the guards. Li Wei quickly rose to his feet, his demeanor respectful but filled with curiosity.
"Master Sima Yi," Li Wei said, bowing slightly. "I didn't expect to see you here. This is an unexpected but welcome surprise."
Sima Yi smiled warmly, his presence calm and reassuring. "Envoy Li Wei, it's good to see you. I've been sent by Lord Lie Fan to take charge of the negotiations with Goguryeo. You will be assisting me in this matter, and I wanted to discuss our strategy with you."
Li Wei's eyes widened slightly at the news, but he quickly composed himself. "I see. I am honored to assist you, Master Sima Yi. Please, take a seat." He gestured toward the chair at the head of the table, offering it to Sima Yi as a sign of respect.
Sima Yi accepted the gesture with a nod and took the seat, while Li Wei settled into a chair beside him. The guards stationed themselves outside the study, leaving the two men to discuss the matter in private.
"First of all," Sima Yi began, his tone measured but firm, "I want to assure you that your efforts up to this point have not gone unnoticed. Lord Lie Fan is aware of the challenges you've faced, and your contributions have been recorded. The transition of leadership in this matter is not a reflection of your performance but rather a strategic decision to ensure the best possible outcome."
Li Wei nodded, his expression one of relief and gratitude. "Thank you, Master Sima Yi. I must admit, the pressure of handling this matter alone has been considerable. Knowing that someone of your experience and skill is now leading the negotiations is a great comfort."
Sima Yi smiled faintly. "Your humility is commendable, Envoy Li Wei. But let us focus on the task at hand. I've reviewed Goguryeo's counterproposal and the reports from the Oriole Agents. It's clear that King Sansang and his advisors are testing our resolve. They seek to retain as much autonomy as possible while avoiding outright conflict. Our goal is to ensure that they accept Lord Lie Fan's original terms, but we must do so in a way that minimizes the risk of escalation."
Li Wei leaned forward, his expression thoughtful. "I agree, Master Sima Yi. Goguryeo's counterproposal is bold, but it also reveals their vulnerabilities. They are clearly concerned about the economic and military impact of our terms, which is why they've proposed a phased implementation and a joint council. However, their request for military assistance in the event of an external threat is particularly audacious."
Sima Yi nodded, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly as he considered the implications. "Indeed. That request is a clear attempt to leverage our resources for their benefit. It cannot be allowed. However, we may be able to use their concerns to our advantage. By addressing some of their economic and logistical worries, we can create an opening to push for the acceptance of Lord Lie Fan's original terms."
Li Wei's eyes lit up with understanding. "You mean we offer them minor concessions in areas that don't compromise our overall objectives, while holding firm on the key points?"
"Precisely," Sima Yi replied. "For example, we could agree to a slightly extended timeline for the reduction of their standing army, provided that they meet specific milestones along the way. This would give them a sense of control without undermining our goal of weakening their military capabilities. Similarly, we could offer limited economic support during the transition to the new currency, but only if they agree to the establishment of the Lie Clan Supervision Bureau without equal representation."
Li Wei nodded, his mind racing with the possibilities. "That's a sound approach. It shows that we are willing to be reasonable, but it also makes it clear that we will not tolerate any deviation from the core terms."
Sima Yi's smile returned, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. "Exactly. The key is to strike a balance between strength and flexibility. We must project an image of unwavering resolve while also offering a path to compliance that Goguryeo can accept without losing face."
The two men spent the next several hours refining their strategy, their combined intellects weaving a plan that was both bold and calculated.
They discussed every possible scenario, from Goguryeo's potential counterarguments to the reactions of their southern neighbors, Baekje, Gaya, and Silla. Sima Yi's experience and strategic acumen complemented Li Wei's firsthand knowledge of the situation, creating a formidable partnership.
As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the study, Sima Yi leaned back in his chair, his expression one of quiet determination. "We have a solid plan, Envoy Li Wei. The next step is to arrange a meeting with King Sansang and his advisors. We must present our terms with clarity and confidence, leaving no room for misinterpretation."
Li Wei nodded, his resolve matching Sima Yi's. "I will make the necessary arrangements immediately. With your leadership, Master Sima Yi, I am confident that we can achieve a favorable outcome."
Sima Yi's smile returned, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. "Thank you, Envoy Li Wei. Your support is invaluable. Together, we will ensure that Lord Lie Fan's vision for the future becomes a reality."
The following day, Sima Yi and Li Wei, accompanied by a contingent of elite guards, set out for Goguryeo's capital, Gungnae. The journey was uneventful, but the tension in the air was palpable. Both men knew that the upcoming negotiations would be a test of their skill and resolve, and they were determined to succeed.
As they approached the gates of Gungnae, they were met by a delegation of Goguryeo officials, led by Mo Du and Dal Gae. The atmosphere was formal but cordial, a reflection of the delicate balance between diplomacy and tension.
"Master Sima Yi, Envoy Li Wei," Mo Du said, his tone respectful but cautious. "We welcome you to Gungnae. King Sansang is eager to discuss the terms of our agreement."
Sima Yi inclined his head slightly, his expression calm but firm. "Thank you, Advisor Mo Du. We are here to find a mutually acceptable solution that benefits both our kingdoms."
The delegation escorted Sima Yi and Li Wei to the grand hall of the palace, where King Sansang and his advisors awaited. The room was filled with an air of anticipation, the weight of the moment pressing down on everyone present.
As the negotiations began, Sima Yi took the lead, his voice steady and commanding. "Your Majesty, we have reviewed your counterproposal and are prepared to discuss its merits. However, let me be clear, Lord Lie Fan's original terms are non negotiable. Any agreement we reach must align with those terms."
King Sansang's expression was unreadable, but his eyes betrayed a flicker of concern. "Master Sima Yi, we understand your position, but we must also consider the well being of our people. The terms you propose would have a significant impact on our kingdom, and we seek a solution that balances our needs with your demands."
Sima Yi nodded, his tone measured but firm. "We are willing to address some of your concerns, provided that the core terms are met. For example, we can agree to a phased reduction of your standing army and limited economic support during the transition to the new currency. However, the establishment of the Lie Clan Supervision Bureau and the disbandment of 50% of your army are non negotiable."
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Name: Lie Fan
Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains
Age: 33 (200 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