503. Goguryeo Envoy

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He paused, looking to Lie Fan for approval. "Through careful diplomacy, we can ensure that they continue to view us as indispensable allies while slowly increasing our influence over their internal affairs.".Lie Fan listened carefully, nodding at Chen Qun's balanced perspective. It was a sound strategy, a middle ground between caution and action, but he remained silent, his eyes fixed on Sima Yi, who had yet to speak.

Sima Yi, who had been observing the debate quietly, finally spoke, his voice calm but carrying an edge of calculation. "There is wisdom in waiting, but there is also danger in hesitation. The marriages of Sun Ce and Zhou Yu to the Qiao sisters are a double-edged sword. On one hand, they are solidifying their power base in Jiangdong, but on the other hand, they are entering a new phase of responsibility. They will be focused on securing their familial and political alliances. This is a period of transition for them, and transition always brings vulnerability."

He shifted in his seat, his gaze sharp as he addressed Lie Fan directly. "However, Master Jia Xu is right that this is an opportunity. We must act, but not overtly. A direct approach could backfire, but if we continue to aid them while increasing our influence subtly, we can weave ourselves into the very fabric of their power. By the time they realize how dependent they've become on us, it will be too late for them to resist without risking everything."

Sima Yi's strategy was, as always, one of patient but relentless manipulation. He advocated for embedding Lie Fan's influence so deeply within the Sun Clan's structure that any attempt to disentangle themselves would destabilize their entire power base.

It was a slow, methodical process that required precision and careful timing, but if executed correctly, it would bring the Sun Clan under Lie Fan's control without a single hesitation from the Sun Clan, at least its leaders.

Lie Fan sat in silence, contemplating the various arguments. Each advisor had brought forward valid points, and he respected the wisdom behind each approach. Jia Xu's boldness, Lu Su's caution, Chen Qun's pragmatism, and Sima Yi's cold calculation all had merit.

The Sun Clan was a crucial ally and a close friend, but they were also a potential threat if they grew too powerful. The marriages of Sun Ce and Zhou Yu to the Qiao sisters were more than just personal unions; they were political maneuvers that could either strengthen or weaken the bond between the Sun Clan and Lie Fan.

After a long pause, Lie Fan finally spoke, his voice measured. "We will not rush into action. As Zijing and Changwen have said, we cannot afford to risk provoking Sun Ce or Zhou Yu at this moment. However, Wenhe and Zhongda are right that we must not let this opportunity pass us by."

He leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with resolve. "We will send an envoy to Jiangdong to congratulate Sun Ce and Zhou Yu on their marriages when they announce the marriage. We will offer them gifts as a token of our goodwill and continue to support their endeavors. But at the same time, we will increase our presence in the region quietly. I want our influence in Jiangdong to grow steadily, without drawing attention, at the same time we will ensure that they remain reliant on us."

He stood, his presence commanding the room. "This is a game of patience. We will not force the Sun Clan into submission, but we will ensure that when the time comes, they will have no choice but to align themselves fully with us. Prepare the envoys, and ensure that our presence in Jiangdong is felt. We will advance our plans, but with caution and subtlety."

The advisors nodded, each understanding their role in the unfolding strategy. The room was filled with a sense of purpose as they began to discuss the finer details of the plan. As the meeting concluded, Lie Fan stood by the window once more, his thoughts on the future.

The Sun Clan would grow stronger, but so too would his influence over them. It was a delicate dance of power and control, one that would require every ounce of his skill and patience. But if all went according to plan, the Sun Clan would one day stand not as equals, but as subjects to his will.

As the mainland enjoyed a brief period of peace following the wars in Jing Province and Jiaozhi Province, the far northeast was anything but idle. In Xiangping, Gongsun Gong, once a subordinate to his father and elder brother, now stood as the ruler of a vast domain.

His rise to power was the result of his timely alignment with Lie Fan, a choice that had not only secured his own position but had also significantly expanded his influence and control.

Sitting in his study, surrounded by piles of administrative documents that required his attention, Gongsun Gong took a brief moment to reflect on his fortunes.

He had been smart to recognize the growing power of Lie Fan early on, and by throwing his lot in with him, he had secured the resources and military aid necessary to maintain control of his lands after his father and brother were removed from power.

His domain had grown considerably, thanks in no small part to the assistance of Zhang Liao and Gao Shun, both of whom had led half of the Qilin Army at Lie Fan's behest to help him solidify his position.

Their combined efforts had not only secured Gongsun Gong's hold over the territories formerly ruled by his father, but they had also allowed him to expand further into the northeast.

Goguryeo, the neighboring korean kingdom with ambitious designs of its own, had lost a significant amount of land to his forces. These victories had not only strengthened his domain but also positioned him as a key player in the northeastern theater.

As Gongsun Gong diligently worked through the day's paperwork, his concentration was interrupted by the sound of footsteps outside his office. One of his guards entered, bowing respectfully before addressing him. "My lord, a delegation from Goguryeo has arrived. They request an audience with you to discuss future trade relations and the possibility of entering into a tributary relationship."

Gongsun Gong's brow furrowed slightly as he set down the brush he had been using to sign documents. "Goguryeo? A delegation from them, you say?" He rose from his seat, stretching his legs as he considered the unexpected visit.

Goguryeo had been a laying low after being defeated continuously by him alongside Zhang Liao and Gao Shun, and their sudden willingness to discuss trade and tributary relations was a curious turn of events.

"What do we know of this delegation?" Gongsun Gong asked, his mind already working through the potential implications. "Are they emissaries of the Goguryeo king, or is this some lesser envoy seeking to probe our intentions?"

The guard hesitated for a moment, then answered, "They claim to be official envoys from King Sansang himself, my lord. It seems they come with genuine intentions, though their exact purpose is unclear beyond the desire for trade discussions."

Gongsun Gong nodded thoughtfully. The idea of a tributary relationship with Goguryeo was intriguing. After the victories his forces had achieved against them, the kingdom was likely looking for a way to stabilize its borders and avoid further conflict. For them to approach Gongsun Gong directly meant that they were, at the very least, acknowledging his growing power and the influence of his alliance with Lie Fan.

"Very well," Gongsun Gong said after a moment of consideration. "Send word that I will receive them in the main hall shortly. Ensure that the hall is properly prepared and that the proper formalities are observed. We must show them that we are not only strong but also civil in our dealings."

The guard bowed again and quickly left to make the necessary preparations. Gongsun Gong, meanwhile, adjusted his robes and took a moment to gather his thoughts. The arrival of the Goguryeo delegation was an opportunity, but it was also a potential trap.

If Goguryeo sought a tributary relationship, it could be a means to buy time and rebuild their strength after the losses they had suffered. On the other hand, if handled correctly, it could be a way for Gongsun Gong to secure his northern borders and increase his influence further.

A short time later, Gongsun Gong entered the main hall, where his advisors and officials had already gathered. The delegation from Goguryeo was waiting, their leader standing at the head of a small group of attendants. The leader, a middle-aged man dressed in fine robes that marked him as an important figure in the Goguryeo court, bowed deeply as Gongsun Gong approached.

"Lord Gongsun," the man said in a deep, respectful voice, "I bring greetings from King Sansang of Goguryeo. My name is Jinseok, and I have been sent by my king to open discussions of trade and to explore the possibility of a tributary relationship between our two nations."

Gongsun Gong returned the bow, his face expressionless as he regarded the envoy. "Envoy Jinseok, your arrival is both unexpected and intriguing. I have heard much of King Sansang's wisdom. Please, tell me more about your king's proposal."

Jinseok smiled carefully, clearly aware that he was treading on delicate ground. "As you are well aware, Lord Gongsun, the past few years have seen conflict between our nations. Goguryeo has suffered losses, and King Sansang recognizes the strength of your nation. It is in the spirit of mutual respect that we come today. My king wishes to avoid further bloodshed and sees great potential in fostering a relationship of trade and tribute."

He paused, measuring his next words. "We propose that Goguryeo send annual tribute to you, recognizing your authority in exchange for peace between our nations. In return, we ask for open trade routes between our lands, allowing both our people to prosper from the exchange of goods and culture."

Gongsun Gong considered the proposal, his expression still unreadable. On the surface, it seemed like a straightforward deal: peace in exchange for tribute and trade.

However, he knew better than to take things at face value. Goguryeo was not a kingdom that submitted easily, and their willingness to send tribute likely came with its own set of hidden agendas.

"You speak of tribute and trade," Gongsun Gong said slowly, "but tell me, why should I believe that Goguryeo's intentions are genuine? You are a proud people, and not long ago, our armies were clashing on the battlefield. What has changed in such a short time to warrant this sudden shift in policy?"

Jinseok nodded, expecting the question. "It is true that Goguryeo is proud, but we are also pragmatic. The losses we suffered have made it clear that continued conflict would not benefit either side. King Sansang is wise enough to recognize that there is more to be gained through cooperation than through endless war. Furthermore, the victories you have achieved, Lord Gongsun, have earned you the respect of my people. It is out of respect, not submission, that we come to you with this offer."

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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