Reborn In The Three Kingdoms

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”My friends,” Lie Fan began, his voice steady but filled with emotion, ”it is good to be home. This victory is not mine alone, but it belongs to all of us, to the brave soldiers who fought valiantly, to the people who supported us from afar, and to you, my trusted advisors, who ensured the smooth governance of our lands.”

The advisors bowed slightly in acknowledgment, their expressions reflecting both humility and pride.

Lie Fan turned to the gathered crowd, his voice rising so all could hear. ”In two days, Xiapi will host a grand banquet, a celebration not just of victory, but of unity, perseverance, and the shared spirit of our people. From the common folk to the nobility, all will partake in this day of festivity. Messages will be sent to other major towns to hold similar banquets so that every corner of our land feels the joy of this triumph.”

The crowd erupted into cheers once more, their voices echoing across the courtyard. The promise of celebration added a new layer of excitement to an already jubilant atmosphere.

Lu Lingqi, standing beside Lie Fan, took a moment to address the people as well. ”This victory was hard-fought, and while we rejoice today, let us not forget the sacrifices made along the way. To those who gave their lives for our cause, we owe an eternal debt. Their bravery lights our path forward.”

Her words brought a moment of solemnity to the celebrations, but it was a necessary reminder. The people nodded in understanding, their respect for Lu Lingqi deepening as they recognized her wisdom and compassion.

Once the formalities were complete, the group made their way into the Governor Castle. The interior was a sharp contrast to the lively streets outside, quiet and orderly, a place of planning and governance. The advisors quickly fell into step behind Lie Fan, their minds already turning to the matters of state that needed to be addressed.

In the grand hall, Lie Fan took his seat at the head of the table, with Lu Lingqi beside him. The advisors and generals filled the remaining seats, their expressions serious as the transition from celebration to strategy began.

Chen Gui stood first, his aged but steady voice carrying the weight of both experience and confidence as he addressed Lie Fan. ”My lord, while you were away leading the campaign, Xiapi has continued to thrive under the governance you established. The population has seen a noticeable increase, primarily due to the influx of refugees and migrants seeking the stability and prosperity of our domain. Our income from taxes has risen proportionally, and the agricultural harvest this season has exceeded our expectations, thanks to the advanced farming methods introduced earlier. The people are content, and their trust in your leadership grows stronger by the day.”

Lie Fan nodded, his expression warm but contemplative. ”That is excellent news, Master Chen Gui. The foundation of our strength lies in the well being of our people. Continue to monitor the situation closely and ensure that those who come seeking refuge are integrated into our communities effectively.”

Chen Gui bowed slightly. ”It shall be done, my lord.”

Next, Chen Qun stepped forward, his demeanor precise and analytical. ”My lord,” he began, ”the state of our bureaucracy, politics, and legal system has remained stable, though not without challenges. The integration of the newly conquered northern domains has been progressing, but as expected, it has not been without resistance. The local officials and elites there require time to adjust to our governance, and their unfamiliarity with our policies has created minor delays in administration.”

He paused, his tone growing more optimistic. ”However, the recent graduates of Xiapi’s Academy, particularly the second and third batches, have provided us with a steady stream of capable bureaucrats to fill vacant positions. Their training and loyalty to our vision have ensured that the core of our governance remains strong.”

Lie Fan allowed a faint smile to cross his lips. ”It seems the investment in education continues to bear fruit. Ensure that these graduates are supported in their roles. Stability in the north is critical to our long-term success.”

Chen Qun bowed. ”As you command, my lord.”

Liu Ye was next, his keen eyes glinting with enthusiasm as he spoke. ”My lord, the development and infrastructure projects within your domain are proceeding at an impressive pace. New roads are being constructed to connect our towns and villages more efficiently. Road signs have been installed to guide travelers, and public buildings such as taverns and security checkpoints are being established along key routes to ensure comfort and safety.”

He continued, ”Additionally, I have exciting news regarding the woodblock printing press. The prototype phase has been completed, and the first fully functional press has been installed within Xiapi’s Academy. It has already begun copying important scrolls and books. More presses are currently under construction, and our goal is to assign one to every major town in your domain. This innovation will not only preserve knowledge but also make it accessible to a broader audience.”

Lie Fan’s eyes lit up with interest. ”The printing press is a remarkable achievement. It will strengthen our cultural and intellectual foundation, ensuring that our people are not only prosperous but also enlightened. Excellent work, Ziyang. Prioritize the completion of additional presses.”

Liu Ye inclined his head. ”It will be done, my lord.”

Chen Gong stepped forward, his tone brimming with pride. ”My lord, the army has seen a significant increase in potential recruits. Many of the youths who have recently come of age are eager to serve in your ranks. However, as the army’s quota for replenishment has been reached, these young men have been redirected to other critical professions, such as crafting, blacksmithing, and construction. This has helped fill the growing demand for skilled labor as our domain continues to expand.”

He hesitated for a moment before adding, ”The spirit of patriotism among the people is strong, my lord. They see your victories as their own and are willing to contribute to the strength of our domain in whatever way they can.”

Lie Fan leaned back slightly, a thoughtful expression on his face. ”That is heartening to hear, Gongtai. While a strong army is essential, the backbone of a thriving nation lies in its skilled labor force. Ensure these youths are provided with proper training and opportunities to excel in their chosen professions.”

Chen Gong nodded. ”Your will shall be done, my lord.”

Lu Su stood up, his demeanor calm and composed as he addressed the gathering. ”My lord, the stability of your domain remains strong, but the integration of the northern territories has not been without its challenges. Tensions between the local populations and our administrative presence in the north have led to minor disruptions. However, the presence of the Qinlong, Xuanwu, and Zhuque Armies has mitigated much of the unrest, ensuring that the situation remains under control. These armies’ disciplined and respectful conduct has helped build trust among the northern people, albeit slowly.”

He paused, a faint smile breaking his otherwise serious expression. ”There is, however, good news on the healthcare front. Master Hua Tuo and Zhang Zhongjing have been instrumental in elevating the quality of life across your domain. Numerous batches of trained doctors and nurses have been released into service. They have begun establishing both public and private clinics within the heart of our lands and in the newly annexed northern regions. This has significantly improved healthcare access for your people.”

Lu Su continued, ”Additionally, the medicines and acupuncture techniques developed by Hua Tuo and Zhang Zhongjing at the main hospital in Xiapi have proven revolutionary. Their treatments are not only curing ailments but also preventing diseases from spreading. This has fostered goodwill among the people, who see your administration as one that truly cares for their well-being.”

Lie Fan leaned forward, his expression one of deep satisfaction. ”Zijing, this is heartening to hear. The health of our people is as important as their security. Extend my gratitude to Masters Hua Tuo and Zhang Zhongjing for their contributions. Make it clear that they have my full support in their efforts.”

Lu Su bowed slightly. ”It will be done, my lord.”

Just as Lu Su finished, the doors to the hall opened, and Mi Zhu entered. He was slightly out of breath, a clear sign of his tireless dedication to managing the treasury and economy of Lie Fan’s vast domain. Bowing deeply, he began his report.

”My lord, I apologize for my late arrival. I was finalizing the latest financial summaries. I am pleased to inform you that the economy of your domain is flourishing. Trade routes from Goguryeo have brought an influx of goods, merchants, and wealth into our markets. The unification of your territories has made travel safer and more efficient, encouraging merchants to expand their operations.”

He continued, ”The newly conquered northern domains have also contributed to this prosperity, as they serve as vital trade corridors. However, I must point out that the expenditures have also increased. The ongoing developments, infrastructure projects, and aid programs for the northern regions have placed a significant demand on the treasury. That said, the income from taxes and trade far outweigh the expenditures, ensuring that our financial position remains strong.”

Lie Fan nodded thoughtfully. ”Zizhong, your stewardship of the economy is commendable. While expenditures are necessary for progress, ensure that our resources are managed wisely. Continue to prioritize trade and development, but do not neglect the needs of the common folk.”

Mi Zhu smiled faintly. ”Your wisdom is unparalleled, my lord. I will ensure that every coin is spent with the prosperity of the people in mind.”

Finally, it was Jia Xu’s turn to speak. The room seemed to grow quieter as he rose, his presence exuding a calm yet commanding authority. His report, as always, was sharp and incisive.

”My lord,” he began, ”I bring news from Lingling. As per your orders, our Oriole agents have been active in the region. Ju Shou, under Liu Bei’s acquiescence, has disrupted the tripartite agreement between Liu Bei, the Sun Clan, and Shi Xie over the shared control of Lingling. This has plunged the region into chaos, as Zhou Yu, anticipating betrayal, orchestrated a massive retreat to Changsha with over half of Lingling’s population following him.”

Jia Xu allowed a brief pause, his words sinking into the gathered audience. ”The sabotage left Lingling in ruins, and Liu Bei’s reputation as a benevolent ruler now hangs by a thread. Our Oriole agents capitalized on this unrest, spreading flyers and pamphlets that revealed Liu Bei’s willingness to break the agreement, painting him as a man who values power over stability. The Sun Clan, as your vassal, has seen its reputation rise in the southern region, as they are now viewed as the true protectors of peace.”

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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