Plan
Chapter 55, Planning
My older brother's "welcome feast" left me physically and mentally exhausted. The roasted venison was truly a delicacy; the outer skin was roasted to a crispy, fragrant perfection, while the meat inside was tender and juicy. The aroma of the spices blended perfectly with the gamey flavor of the venison itself, leaving a lingering fragrance in every bite. However, no matter how delicious the food, when accompanied by matters of state and the world, a sense of guilt inevitably arises: "A storm is brewing, yet you remain oblivious to the dangers, calmly indulging in your feast—how pathetic!"
But what can I say?
The atmosphere at the table was far beyond my ability to easily intrude. The three of them—the eldest brother, with his strategic vision and far-sightedness, needless to say; Mr. Tao, judging from his words, was clearly the mastermind behind the eldest brother's safe escape from Bozhou, his planning and strategizing playing a crucial role; and Lan Feiyu…
Alas, her older brother clearly already regarded her as the future master of Bozhou. Their conversation had begun to spread to how to ensure the safety of Bozhou in the future, how to protect the peace of Bozhou in this turbulent world, and even to discuss more ambitious plans and the rise and fall of various forces in the world.
Diplomatic relations, national policy, military strength, finances, and provisions.
Ah, gradually, even roasted venison tasted bland and tasteless.
The elder brother's steady voice rang out, though it wasn't directed at me: "Although Bozhou was once a vassal state of Eastern Chu, in recent years it has been plagued by internal strife and widespread poverty, and is also threatened by external threats such as Tuluo. The title of vassal state can no longer be maintained. For the long-term well-being of the people of Bozhou, formally incorporating Bozhou into the territory of Eastern Chu is the best course of action. However, considering the loyalty and bravery of the Lan family throughout the ages, and Miss Lan's profound understanding of righteousness today, Eastern Chu will grant a special privilege: formally conferring upon Miss Lan the title of Lady of Bozhou, a position that will be hereditary within her family. Eastern Chu will not interfere in the military, political, or social affairs of Bozhou unless there is a major reason. Eastern Chu will be responsible for coordinating Bozhou's external defenses, vigorously supporting its economy and livelihood, opening trade markets, and reducing some taxes. Bozhou only needs to follow the Eastern Chu calendar, pay a symbolic annual tribute to the court, and, when needed by the court, have the Lady of Bozhou lead her troops to obey orders."
He paused, his gaze deepening, his tone taking on an undeniable solemnity: "Of course, Miss Lan, there are some things I must frankly tell you. Although the title of Lord of Bozhou is hereditary, each successor must receive formal investiture from the Eastern Chu court. This is the proper etiquette between ruler and subject, and also the cornerstone of maintaining trust between the two regions. Secondly, although Bozhou enjoys a high degree of autonomy, if there are any acts of defiance against Eastern Chu, collusion with foreign enemies, or major unrest under its rule that threatens the overall safety of Eastern Chu, the court will absolutely not stand idly by and will take decisive action." This is to rectify the power of the suzerain. This is not an attempt to obstruct, but rather necessary to ensure the long-term stability of both Eastern Chu and Bozhou. I hope these will forever remain mere provisions, never to be used. Furthermore, to demonstrate the court's consideration and facilitate communication between the two regions, the court may in the future dispatch an official of the rank of 'Supervisory Censor' or 'Liaison General' to be permanently stationed in Bozhou. Their responsibility is to convey information from above to below, assist the Bozhou lord in communicating with the court, and monitor for any violations of the alliance, but they will absolutely not interfere in the daily affairs of the Bozhou lord's residence. What does Miss Lan think?"
No matter how naive I am, I know this isn't something my older brother can decide alone. I never imagined the Emperor, and probably even my uncle, would have considered this so thoroughly. If I were solely from Dong Chu's perspective, I would consider this an immense favor. Bozhou could gain Dong Chu's support with almost no effort. Since my older brother was saying this to Lan Feiyu, it implies at least one premise: Lan Feiyu must be the true leader of Bozhou.
But Bozhou is still in Xian Asa's hands. Does that mean that Dong Chu will step in and help Lan Feiyu take Bozhou back?
I looked at Lan Feiyu; her eyes were lowered, her expression shrouded in mist, impossible to discern. Her older brother had spoken long ago, yet she remained silent until Mr. Tao coughed lightly: "Master?"
Lan Feiyu then raised her head, gazing at her elder brother. Her face was pale, but her eyes were bright, and the phoenix on her head seemed to have gained spirit, as if it wanted to spread its wings and fly high: "Your Highness, if Bozhou were truly under my rule and incorporated into Eastern Chu, it would indeed be the best course of action—I have no one to rely on, and now I have lost the external support of Tuluo. Not to mention Tuluo, even the pressure from Baili would be difficult to handle. However... the one who is powerful in Bozhou now is not me, Lan Feiyu. Isn't it all in vain for you to tell me this?"
Hearing this, I couldn't help but nudge Lan Feiyu with my elbow. She glanced at me, and her tense demeanor inexplicably relaxed. She gave me a slight smile.
The older brother's gaze swept between Lan Feiyu and me for a moment, and the corners of his mouth lifted almost imperceptibly, but he quickly regained his composure. He looked at Lan Feiyu, his voice calm yet carrying an all-knowing power: "I am naturally aware of what Miss Lan has said. If Bozhou is already under your control, then what I am discussing with you today is not 'cooperation,' but 'an imperial edict.'"
He leaned forward slightly, his tone revealing an undeniable determination: "The reason I have spoken with you so thoroughly today is to make you understand the sincerity and bottom line of Eastern Chu. As for the late Asa... Miss Lan, this is the first step in our cooperation between Eastern Chu, you, and the future Lord of Bozhou."
"The first step in the cooperation?" Lan Feiyu repeated, a hint of surprise flashing in her bright eyes. Then, as if she understood something, her gaze suddenly sharpened, and she stared intently at her older brother.
“Indeed,” the elder brother nodded. “Everything I just said is the promise and regulation that Eastern Chu has made to the Lord of Bozhou. Allowing Miss Lan to rightfully ascend to the throne of Lord Bozhou, clearing away obstacles, is the first step for Eastern Chu to demonstrate its sincerity, and also the first step for the Lord of Bozhou to gain the trust of Eastern Chu and prove his worth.” His voice was not loud, but every word was clear, carrying a convincing power. “Eastern Chu needs a Lord of Bozhou who can truly control Bozhou and is of one heart and mind with Eastern Chu. Miss Lan, are you willing to take this first step together with Eastern Chu?”
Upon hearing this, my heart skipped a beat. This wasn't just a hint; it was a clear promise! Dong Chu was going to help Lan Feiyu deal with Xian Asa!
Lan Feiyu's chest heaved slightly, her lips pressed tightly together, as if she were trying her best to calm the turmoil within her. After a long while, she slowly exhaled, a trace of color returning to her previously pale face, and her eyes became incredibly resolute. She stood up and solemnly bowed to her elder brother: "Since Your Highness has shown such courage, if Feiyu were to refuse again, she would be betraying Your Highness's trust and the expectations of the people of Bozhou. However, this matter is perilous, and Feiyu does not wish for Your Highness and Dongchu to pay too high a price for it."
"A price?" The older brother smiled faintly, but a sharp glint flashed in his eyes. "Miss Lan, in this world, there is never a gain without a price. What Eastern Chu wants is a stable southwestern bulwark, a trustworthy ally. Paying some necessary 'price' for this is worthwhile. Moreover," he changed his tone, looking at Mr. Tao, "Bozhou is not a monolithic entity, is it, Mr. Tao?"
Mr. Tao bowed slightly and replied, “Your Highness is wise. Asa’s perverse actions have already caused widespread resentment within Bozhou. Among the former members of the Lan clan and various tribes in Bozhou, there are quite a few who are loyal to the Lan clan’s orthodoxy. If the royal army assists us in restoring order, we will surely achieve twice the result with half the effort.”
I was stunned. So they had planned this all along! The eldest brother not only intended to give Lan Feiyu a title and support, but he had also meticulously planned the specifics of how to do it. This was no longer a simple "welcome-back banquet"; it was clearly a secret meeting that would determine the future of Bozhou.
A complex light flickered in Lan Feiyu's eyes—excitement, gratitude, and a hint of resolve. She took a deep breath and looked at her elder brother again: "I will forever remember Your Highness's kindness. I wonder... how Your Highness hopes Feiyu will cooperate?"
The older brother finally showed a hint of approval on his face: "Miss Lan is quick-witted and outspoken. We still need to discuss the specific strategies in detail. But right now, what I need you to do is to calm your mind, contact your old subordinates, and consolidate your forces. When the time is right, the assistance from Dong Chu will naturally arrive."
He raised his glass: "Today, with this glass of wine, I wish our cooperation a smooth start and great success."
Lan Feiyu also raised her wine glass, her hand trembling slightly, but her eyes were incredibly firm: "Thank you, Your Highness! Feiyu will certainly not fail in her mission!"
The two men drank the wine in their glasses in one gulp.
Looking at them, and then at the slightly cold roasted venison on the table, I suddenly felt that this meal might only be beginning to truly become "delicious." Although this deliciousness was mixed with intrigue and scheming, at least I saw the rekindled flame of hope in Lan Feiyu's eyes, and I also saw the broader ambition in my older brother's heart.
The two men drank the wine in their glasses in one gulp.
Lan Feiyu gently placed the wine cup back on the table, remained silent for a moment, then suddenly raised her eyes to look at me, her gaze clear yet solemn: "What Your Highness says is all of great righteousness, and if Feiyu can truly have this opportunity, she also knows that this is not something I can accomplish alone... Xi'er," her voice softened, yet became even more sincere, "if you are willing to lend me a hand, Feiyu... will be eternally grateful."
Her words, though not spoken in a loud voice, were like a pebble thrown into a lake of my heart, creating countless ripples.
For a moment I didn’t know how to answer. I felt the surroundings suddenly become quiet. My older brother and Mr. Tao also stopped talking, as if they were waiting for me to speak.
I opened my mouth, but ultimately said nothing.
The older brother saw all this and suddenly smiled, breaking the silence: "Xiao Xi has always been like this since she was a child. She always thinks things through clearly before she agrees to anything. There was no coercion involved in this matter, and I do not want her to do things because of other people's opinions."
His words were tactful and appropriate, both easing the awkwardness of my momentary silence and preserving Lan Feiyu's dignity.
Lan Feiyu lowered her head slightly: "Your Highness's judgment is wise, and Feiyu understands."
I lowered my head and clenched my fingers on my knees, but a storm was brewing inside me.
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com
