Chapter 1098: Chapter 264: This Era_2
The art of poetry involves nothing more than expressing emotions through objects. By observing the poem and tasting its words, one can capture the scene and emotions experienced on that particular day;
When it comes to you, it is merely a matter of effortless textual creations. Such a refined art, yet in your hands, it is full of artisanal spirit."
Lord Jingnan, though famous for personal prowess and godlike military strategy, was not lacking in cultural literacy, being the legitimate son of the Tian Family.
A piece of "Full of Heroic Spirit," albeit extremely bold, the Lord knew well it was not a direct expression of Zheng Fan’s sentiments.
The Lord understood Zheng Fan’s personality. His entry into Chu this time was also forced by him.
Therefore, without the sentiment, without the scene, yet able to produce such fine poetry—it can only be said that poetry was seen as weapons in a forge, being molded in batches.
Lord Zheng forced a smile.
"But, your elder brother-in-law seems quite pleased with this poem?"
The Princess spoke at this moment; "Yes, the emperor has always regarded my husband as Mr. Su, almost considering him a literary soulmate."
The Lord nodded and said, "Who knew he harbored wild ambitions."
The Princess bashfully smiled and said, "After going back and forth, I don’t know what I was thinking. I just felt I should go with him. Brother, do you think I’m bewitched?"
Xiong Liqing was evidently open,
since Lord Jingnan asked her to call him brother,
this intelligent woman was utilizing her expertise.
Sometimes, there are inevitable barriers between men, as both sides tend to be more reserved and constrained in emotional expression, whereas women can compensate for this flaw.
Moreover, she is a Chu State princess, not an ordinary girl. Her adaptability is stronger in front of major figures and events.
Tian Wujing said:
"Being bewitched is good. Although this young man has many flaws, there’s only one thing, whoever treats him sincerely, he will return in kind. Don’t be reluctant to invest in him, because once you have done so, only without expectations can you gain."
"Yes, brother."
"In the evening, this Lord will submit a memorandum to His Majesty. The Princess of Chu enters Yan, in mutual love with our Lord Pingye of Yan. His Majesty and the court will surely be delighted.
But rest assured, His Majesty is not a petty person; he will not give you some title like ’Princess of Righteousness.’
Since you’ve entered Yan, since you’ve chosen someone, you should prioritize your husband’s family."
"Yes."
The Princess slowly stood up and said, "Lord, husband, I will brew tea for both of you."
She felt it was about time for her to leave space for the two men to speak.
After the Princess exited the command tent,
Tian Wujing lightly tapped his fingers on the small table,
and asked:
"What do you think?"
"To the Lord’s reply, internally, Chu State is scattered yet not chaotic, precisely because there is a regent."
Tian Wujing nodded and said, "The annexation of Jin land was due to the long-standing division of Jin among three families; the sovereign was not like a sovereign, minister not like a minister; whereas, Qian and Chu are different. If one wishes to conquer Qian and Chu, it must employ a more forceful approach than the swift annexation of Jin land.
Using a soft blade to cut meat will not do—it cuts our own flesh."
"Yes, I also believe we should conquer it with the force of thunder. We might not need to swallow it whole directly, but if we attack Qian State, we must break its three major towns. The same applies to Chu State; if we truly decide to attack, we must take Town South Pass in one battle, spreading our forces into Shanggu County.
It’s like wolves hunting; either keep circling the prey, or once an opportunity arises, bite and tear off a piece of meat fiercely.
Prolonged grinding, stalemate, or attrition is unfavorable for Yan State.
Tian Wujing stood up and said, "Help this Lord armor up; let’s take a walk at the front."
"Yes, Lord."
Zheng Fan helped Lord Jingnan put on his armor. Subsequently, Lord Jingnan rode ahead on his Pixiu, and Lord Zheng followed on horseback.
Initially, two cavalry units intended to follow but were signaled to stop by Lord Jingnan.
"A few days ago, this Lord used the defection of a lieutenant from Xue Rang’s subordinates to strike the Town South Pass garrison. But the Chu general named Nian Yao responded swiftly. The Chu army immediately took over Town South Pass, not giving this Lord the opportunity to take advantage of entering the pass."
When saying these words, Tian Wujing’s face remained calm. On the battlefield, it is about one side seeking gaps to strike, and the other side covering the gaps, waiting for the right moment.
Having missed the previous opportunity, we’ll just wait for the next one.
"Nian Yao is said to be a former household slave of the Regent. Lord, the great noble families of Chu region stand tall, quite similar to when our Yan had numerous noble clans back in the day."
Tian Wujing raised his hand,
and said:
"Speaking of this is still premature. Firstly, the current situation in Chu State indeed resembles that of our Yan back then. While lacking external cultivation, if in defense, they become more resilient. Those great nobles know that after our Yan had crushed the noble families, once entering Chu, they would no longer enjoy such days.
Secondly, if we wish to execute a strategy of division and disintegration, Town South Pass must be pried open first. If Cheng State hadn’t fallen back then, Town South Pass wouldn’t have fallen into Chu’s hands now."
"Yet if Cheng State hadn’t fallen, it is likely neither I nor the Lord would be present here."
"Not quite the same. Situ Lei indeed had grand ambitions. If he hadn’t died young, anything would’ve been possible."
Back then,
Situ Lei had actually reached a tacit understanding with Yan State, that Cheng State would become a vassal state of Yan, with Situ Lei stepping down from emperor to become a sovereign.
If it had truly come to pass, then it would have been the Yan Army allied with Cheng State troops, entering Chu all the way from Town South Pass.
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