Mythical Three Kingdoms

Whether it was when he first became prominent or now that he had become the Overlord of the realm, Liu Bei’s only changes were in his appearance and aura; his heart remained bound by his oath, unwavering by a single hair. He still followed his vow to fulfill his dreams—”to have food and clothing, a home and land, education, and nurturing!”

It was a simple and clear dream, but the only one daring to speak it out loud and actually pursue it was Liu Bei. No matter the difficulties, to this day, Liu Bei remained steadfast on this path, his heart unwaveringly firm!

Chen Xi’s return no matter how surreptitious, would hardly escape the notice of the aristocracy at Mount Tai. Thus, having given up on hiding his tracks, Chen Xi openly, albeit modestly, made his way back to Mount Tai.

”He’s back.” Sitting in the tavern, watching the carriage passing through the middle of Central Avenue, every member of the Qing Xu Families knew that Chen Xi had returned.

”He’s back...” At the north of Fenggao City, where the various influential families had gathered, differing expressions crossed their faces upon receiving the intel. Yet in their struggle, there was now less of the original restraint.

Without Chen Zichuan, even if they won, what would it mean? In just a few short years, they had supported a Feudal Lord on the path to becoming an Overlord, and had nearly seen Liu Bei ascend from scratch. Without earning his recognition, without subduing him, what significance did all their actions hold?

”Xuu Ziyuan truly lost, and if all goes as expected, it was a resounding defeat,” the Head of the Bai Family, White Yue, sighed, ”But that’s also to be expected. Even among those gathered here because of Xuu Ziyuan, I doubt anyone believed Xuu Ziyuan could defeat him.”

”Defeat was inevitable,” agreed the Head of the Wei Family, sharing the sentiment that Xuu You’s failure was to be expected, even though he was an ally, if a reluctant one.

”Who among us would bet on Xuu Ziyuan defeating him? That was just a pretext,” Li Family’s Li Heo said with a wry smile, ”If news came now that Xuu Ziyuan had won, I’d be more worried that things are even more troublesome than we thought.”

”He returned discreetly, yet without any disguise, even taking the time to inquire at the Bao Family. Such a style is indeed typical of him,” Zhang Family’s Zhang Hao remarked with helplessness, ”Now the situation is such; he has left us an option. If we give up, there will be no blame. Those who want to quit should do so quickly.”

”Giving up is unrealistic. At this point, when the arrow is on the bowstring, we have no choice but to release it. It’s good that he’s back; it means our families might be preserved. If possible, I truly do not wish to clash with him. No joke, the sight of him chills me to the bone,” said Shi Wen of the Shii Family with a rueful smile.

As these words were spoken, the young members of the various families present could only give wry smiles, having seen the terror of their adversary. Who would want to face such a monster? But sometimes there was no other choice.

”For the sake of the family...” one member of the aristocracy stood up, extending his hand, and spoke with a calm expression.

”For the sake of the family...” the rest of the young members from the families stood up as well, extending their hands and speaking in unison, aware of their certain defeat and knowing they did not need to do this, but still they stood to meet their deaths.

”To propose a ’what-if’: what if he fails to understand the demands of our families?” At a time when everyone was resigned to their fate, there would always be someone to cause a stir.

”Do you think he’s like you?” Head of the Qian Family, Qian Lin, cast a disparaging glance at the troublesome Su Family Member.

”I’m just afraid he’ll act as if he hasn’t seen anything,” Zhao Family’s Zhao Bin said with a bitter smile, just like you can never wake a girl who is pretending to sleep—if he pretends not to see, then there’s nothing they can do.

”So, we just give up?” A question of defiance arose from the crowd, and the others were taken aback.

”Let’s do it. I’m willing to trust him!” Shi Wen spoke up, and the others echoed in agreement, their eyes alight with determination. As much as they were not fond of Chen Xi’s style, and even though he rarely stood in the same trench as them, they were willing to bet on Chen Xi’s character.

At another gathering point for the Qing Xu Families, unlike the group of steadfast individuals, the scene had turned into a marketplace. Some wanted to withdraw, some were prepared to fight to the death, some had given up on themselves, and some were arrogantly self-important. The discussion led nowhere, and everyone harbored thoughts of just taking advantage at the last minute.

After Chen Xi arrived home, he immediately announced that he would not receive guests. At this time, Chen Lan was already six months pregnant. Chen Xi spent more time accompanying Chen Lan and Fan Jian. As for Mi Zhen, Zhen Mi, and others, they had all been grounded by Cai Yan. Even if Cai Yan did not fully grasp the current situation, Li Youu would caution her.

The April sunshine was starting to feel warm and slightly sweltering. Chen Xi, having faced no disturbances since his return, spent his days in peace, content to accompany his wife at home. One day as Chen Xi basked in the sun with Chen Lan and Fan Jian, a maid reported that someone from the Chen Family wanted to see him.

”Uh...” Chen Xi frowned, slightly uncertain whether he should meet Chen Shang. He guessed the purpose of the Chen Family’s visit, but the troubling question was whether he should go.

”Husband, go and see the Chen Clan Elder. Since the Chen Family moved to Mount Tai, they have not troubled you with anything and have strictly followed your commands. Knowing that you’re not receiving guests and yet still coming, they must be facing a major issue,” Fan Jian said hesitantly, seeing the contemplative look on Chen Xi’s face.

”Alright,” Chen Xi decided after a moment of thought. Though he had a rough idea of the reason behind the visit, he felt obliged to show some courtesy.

When Chen Xi emerged, he saw Chen Clan Elder, Chen Shang, pacing back and forth in the main hall, clearly agitated.

”Uncle Ancestor, it’s been a long time,” Chen Xi said calmly as he greeted Chen Shang with a bow.

”Zichuan, I’m glad to see you at last. Coming here myself, I was prepared for you not wanting to meet me,” Chen Shang’s words carried an obvious resentment, but his expression had steadied.

”Uncle Ancestor jokes. Zichuan is rarely at home, and there are only two ladies in this house. Thus, we are forced to not receive guests. However, now that I am here, I cannot be so cold and unreasonable. Uncle Ancestor, please,” Chen Xi spoke without taking Chen Shang’s resentment to heart. His attitude towards the Chen Family was indeed somewhat indifferent, but he still maintained the necessary courtesies.

”You must know why I have come. But what I want to know is, Zichuan, how do you view the Aristocratic Families Under Heaven?” After taking a sip of tea, Chen Shang got straight to the point, familiar with Chen Xi’s style.

”I come from an aristocratic family,” Chen Xi said evenly.

”...” Chen Shang visibly relaxed a great deal, continuing to watch Chen Xi, waiting for the rest of his statement. (To be continued. If you like this work, please visit to cast your votes for recommendation and monthly tickets. Your support is my greatest motivation. Mobile users please visit m.qidian.com to read.)