Chapter 124: Your Majesty, Do Not Weep Upon Meeting Kong Rong; Display the Emperor's Might

When Kong Rong returned to the official inn, it was still early, with the sun yet to fully set.

“Prime Minister!”

Within the inn, Tai Shici had been anxiously waiting. Seeing Kong Rong safely back, he couldn’t help but sigh in relief.

If Kong Rong hadn’t returned before nightfall, Tai Shici would have fled to Jizhou with his credentials.

While he could have chosen to infiltrate Xu County and find an opportunity to rescue Kong Rong, he knew that Kong Rong preferred him to go to Jizhou and expose Cao Cao’s deception of usurping the Emperor’s authority.

After welcoming Kong Rong inside, Tai Shici asked, “Did you meet His Majesty today, Prime Minister?”

Kong Rong nodded. “Yes, I was summoned immediately upon arrival. There were faint traces reminiscent of eight years ago. However, whether this is truly the Emperor remains debatable.”

Taken aback, Tai Shici queried, somewhat puzzled, “Why do you say that, Prime Minister? Is there something unusual about this Emperor? If he were indeed false, how could you have returned to the inn?”

Kong Rong’s brows furrowed deeply, his thoughts swirling. Eventually, he shook his head and said, “I didn’t notice anything overtly strange; his words and actions were natural and consistent with imperial etiquette. However…”

He paused, seemingly hesitating to continue, which only piqued Tai Shici’s curiosity further.

If their appearances matched, and there were no issues with speech or behavior, nor any signs of abnormality, why did Kong Rong still seem uncertain?

“It’s nothing.” After some hesitation, Kong Rong chose not to elaborate, unsure how best to express his feelings.

If forced to describe it with one word, it would be…disappointment.

He felt let down by the Emperor; this was not what he envisioned for the ruler. Even Lingdi had exuded the dignity expected of an emperor everywhere he went.

Yet today, the Emperor openly wept before numerous ministers in the palace, displaying weakness, panic, and impatience at every turn, devoid of any imperial majesty.

Reflecting on the Emperor’s experiences over these years, Kong Rong realized that his current demeanor was unsurprising. It simply did not align with his own expectations.

He found it difficult to envision how such a timid Emperor could bear the responsibility of revitalizing the Great Han.

“Today at the imperial court, Cao Cao interrupted the Emperor’s speech, showing blatant disrespect. From what I observed, he is no loyal subject. I fear the rumors claiming that Cao Cao holds the Emperor hostage to command obedience may hold truth.”

Kong Rong recalled how during the court session, just as the Emperor intended to continue conversing with him, Cao Cao had rudely cut in. At that moment, the Emperor appeared genuinely fearful.

For the mighty Emperor to be so easily interrupted by a minister without daring to show anger spoke volumes about the situation. Regardless of whether this Emperor was genuine or an imposter, one thing was clear: Cao Cao was not a loyal servant but rather a man driven by ambitious designs.

Tai Shici seemed unsurprised by this observation and remarked, “In today’s world, how many ministers truly remain as devoted to the Han Dynasty as you, Prime Minister? Cao Cao’s reputation is tarnished, his character lowly; he cannot be trusted.”

“Even if this Emperor within the city is genuine, I fear his intentions for welcoming him are far from pure. Prime Minister, you must remain vigilant against him.”

Compared to Yuan Shao, Cao Cao’s reputation was truly abysmal.

Aside from being descended from palace eunuchs, during his attack on Xuzhou years ago, after prolonged resistance, he mercilessly slaughtered over one hundred thousand civilians upon capturing the region, tarnishing his name to its lowest point.

Slaughtering innocent civilians is a grave taboo, yet Cao Cao persisted in such actions, not just once but multiple times. In Xuzhou alone, he carried out three mass killings! This clearly demonstrated the depths of his moral depravity.

At least Tai Shici held deep disdain for individuals like Cao Cao.

“Rest assured, I know how to handle it,” Kong Rong reassured them.

He fully understood these concerns, which is why he had declined Cao Cao’s gestures of goodwill earlier that day.

After further conversation, Kong Rong, feeling weary, suggested, “Let us retire early tonight. Tomorrow, I need to visit the palace, and in a few days, we will depart for Yecheng to pay respects to another Emperor.”

Once he consulted with Yang Biao, Fu Wan, and other close advisors at the palace the next day, they would promptly set off for Yecheng.

Three days later, Kong Rong departed from Xu County.

Despite repeated attempts by both Cao Cao and the Emperor to persuade him to stay, he remained resolute and embarked on his journey to Jizhou with Tai Shici.

On that day, Cao Cao erupted in fury within his manor. Kong Rong’s unwavering determination to leave incensed him, fearing that once Kong Rong reached Yecheng, unforeseen complications might arise.

However, despite his anger, there was nothing he could do but let Kong Rong depart. Killing or forcibly detaining Kong Rong would not be feasible, as such actions, if discovered, would turn the true Emperor of Xu County into a mere pretender.

The news of Kong Rong leaving Xu County for Yecheng reached Yecheng four days after his departure.

Upon receiving this information from Yuan Shao’s residence, Guo Jia and Jia Xu waited until nightfall before entering the palace under the cover of darkness.

Liu Xie regularly summoned them, so no announcement was necessary. Moreover, due to Liu Xie’s arrangements, no attendants were present within the sleeping quarters. After Zhang He escorted them to the entrance, they proceeded directly inside.

They found Liu Xie engrossed, holding a stack of bamboo scrolls and deeply immersed in reading by candlelight.

Liu Xie was deeply engrossed in his studies, not even noticing their arrival.

“His Majesty truly embodies diligence,” Guo Jia couldn’t help but remark upon witnessing this scene.

Since Yuan Shu’s death, Liu Xie had been significantly spurred on. He began doubling his efforts to study various classics, military strategies, and tactics diligently. In just a few days, he had finished reading all the books provided to him.

Moreover, he frequently summoned Guo Jia and Jia Xu to the palace, seeking their guidance on scholarly matters, understanding the current political landscape, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each regional lord, comprehending the complex relationships between them, and exploring the influential noble families supporting them behind the scenes.

It was as if he had transformed into a completely different person.

Jia Xu smiled with delight, “This is indeed a positive change! We owe it to Yuan Shu for instilling a sense of urgency in His Majesty.”

Observing Liu Xie’s transformation over these recent weeks filled Jia Xu with genuine happiness and satisfaction. The more diligent and ambitious the Emperor became, the greater his potential for success. Following such a monarch promised a brighter future.

Of course, during times of peace and prosperity, one might prefer a useless ruler, allowing ministers to seize power unchallenged.

As the two whispered their conversation, Liu Xie finally noticed their presence.

“Wenhe, Fengxiao, you’re here?” Liu Xie looked up, surprise and delight evident on his face. “Perfect timing! We have some questions we wish to consult with you.”

After paying their respects to Liu Xie, Guo Jia spoke first, “Your Majesty, let’s discuss your inquiries later. I have urgent news regarding Kong Rong from North Sea Province to report.”

“Kong Rong?” Liu Xie’s eyes sharpened slightly as he set down the bamboo scroll in his hand. “Didn’t he go to Xu County? Has he acknowledged that false Emperor there?”

Guo Jia shook his head. “Kong Beihai stayed in Xu County for three days but has since departed. He is now en route to Jizhou. Based on the timing of our information, he should arrive within a few days at most.”

Upon hearing this, Liu Xie’s expression turned grave.

Kong Rong’s arrival was not favorable for him.

“After meeting the false Emperor, did Kong Rong make any public statements? Did he reveal his stance?” Liu Xie asked, maintaining composure.

If he were to meet Kong Rong, he lacked confidence in concealing his true identity completely without raising suspicion. Once Kong Rong exposed him as an imposter, there would be no turning back.

Therefore, Liu Xie fervently hoped that Kong Rong would directly acknowledge Emperor Xian’s legitimacy in Xu County and announce it to the world.

If Yuan Shao disagreed first, it would ignite a debate over who was genuine—the Emperor or the impostor.

With Yuan Shao leading the charge, Liu Xie could exploit the chaos to gradually strengthen his position and influence.

Unaware of Liu Xie’s thoughts, Guo Jia responded cheerfully, “Fear not, Your Majesty. Kong Beihai is indeed a loyal servant of the Great Han, known for his integrity and prudence. How could he easily accept Xu County’s so-called Emperor? According to reports from Yuan Shao’s spies, the Emperor in Xu County sought Kong Beihai’s endorsement but was rejected outright. Kong Beihai insisted on visiting Yecheng to meet with Your Majesty before making any decision.”

“Furthermore, during his stay in Xu County, Kong Rong resided at the official inn outside the city walls. He returned each day before dusk without engaging with anyone else. His conduct truly commands my utmost admiration.”

Upon hearing this, Liu Xie felt even more burdened. The more principled Kong Rong appeared, the harder it would be to deceive him.

Moreover, since Kong Rong had already met the legitimate Emperor, he likely gained significant insights from both the Emperor and his close advisors. With knowledge of numerous private matters concerning the true Emperor, confronting him now would undoubtedly increase the difficulty of maintaining the charade. It seemed almost certain that Liu Xie’s deception would be exposed.

His eyes shifted subtly as an idea formed in his mind.

With a somber sigh, Liu Xie displayed an expression of profound sorrow. “It seems Mr. Yang, Mr. Fu, and Our Imperial Concubines were indeed coerced by Cao Cao to betray Us.

Otherwise, upon meeting the false Emperor, Kong Rong would have exposed Cao Cao’s true intentions before all, revealing to the world that it was Cao Cao who had set up a puppet ruler!”

Regardless of circumstances, he must not lose his claim to the throne. In this situation, the only option was to blame the treachery on the Emperor’s close advisors and concubines.

They succumbed to Cao Cao’s coercion and betrayed Us!

Seeing Liu Xie distraught over the betrayal by those closest to him, Jia Xu offered comfort, “Your Majesty, do not grieve. Fearing for their lives, they dared not openly confront Cao Cao but might have privately informed Kong Rong about the situation.

“After all, if they had confronted Kong Beihai directly, Cao Cao, enraged, could have silenced them both—Kong Rong included—to cover his tracks.

“In my view, the reason Kong Beihai did not immediately proclaim the identity of the Emperor in Xu County to the world is because he knew it was merely a false emperor orchestrated by Cao Cao. Unable to speak freely within Cao Cao’s territory, he hastily journeyed to Yecheng.”

Jia Xu’s conjecture held some logic—but only from his perspective.

From Liu Xie’s perspective, this assumption was entirely misguided.

Kong Rong was not one to prioritize self-preservation; if he had discerned the Emperor’s identity, genuine or otherwise, he would have announced it immediately. Instead, his cautious approach led him to wait until meeting both claimants before making a decision.

“Wenhe’s reasoning is valid, but we always prefer preparing for the worst-case scenario,” Liu Xie said thoughtfully. “Suppose the false emperor convincingly impersonated us, even fooling Kong Rong. How can we ensure that upon meeting Kong Beihai, he will believe we are the true Emperor?”

In front of Guo Jia and Jia Xu, Liu Xie demonstrated remarkable receptiveness. Lacking personal insights, he valued the wisdom of these intelligent advisors.

Jia Xu pondered briefly before responding, “As the true imperial dragon, Your Majesty should act naturally… However, there is one thing you must never do.”

Noticing Jia Xu’s hesitance and peculiar expression, Liu Xie curiously asked, “What might that be?”

Jia Xu exchanged glances with Guo Jia, and they simultaneously declared, “Do not wail inconsolably in court!”

Liu Xie looked puzzled at this advice.

Pulling his subjects close and weeping dramatically was a Liu family specialty, with proven effectiveness—just one sob had left Lu Bu utterly bewitched. Why couldn’t he employ it now?

Noticing Liu Xie’s confusion, Guo Jia solemnly explained, “Although Your Majesty has convincingly portrayed yourself as weak to deceive Yuan Shao, please allow me to be frank… Such behavior undermines the dignity and authority of the Emperor.”

Jia Xu added, “Fengxiao is right. If I were Kong Beihai, witnessing such display from Your Majesty would lead me to doubt your divine lineage.”

“The Emperor, supreme ruler above all! Must possess strategic wisdom, remain unflappable amidst chaos, unfazed even if mountains crumble before him; endowed with divine intellect and martial prowess, governing vast territories, exuding awe-inspiring imperial majesty.”

“Once Kong Rong arrives, Your Majesty must shed this facade and confront him openly, displaying the true might of an Emperor.”

Hearing their counsel, Liu Xie remained half-convinced. “Is that so? But wouldn’t heartfelt tears have a more profound impact?”

Jia Xu’s lips twitched slightly. “Your Majesty must not behave like that… Privately, shedding a few tears is acceptable, but meeting Kong Beihai will undoubtedly be a formal occasion. Under no circumstances should you wail uncontrollably.”

Whenever he recalled Liu Xie’s tear-stained appearance during their first encounter, with snot and tears smearing his robes, Jia Xu couldn’t help but shudder involuntarily.

While such displays could sway hearts, it was crucial to consider the setting and the person involved. Used effectively, they might win loyalty, but mishandled, they would only seem insincere and contrived.

Men like himself and Guo Jia were clearly immune to such tactics.

“Very well, we shall heed Wenhe’s advice and refrain from crying,” Liu Xie said, somewhat disappointed.

Initially, he had planned to employ the same strategy as when he met Jia Xu and Lu Bu—shedding tears upon seeing Kong Rong—and even incorporate the dramatic stumble from his escape in front of Lu Bu for added effect. However, after careful consideration, he realized Jia Xu’s words made sense.

After all, which self-respecting Emperor would casually sob before his ministers? Especially facing a rigid and strict official like Kong Rong, maintaining composure seemed more appropriate.

Such exaggerated tactics might backfire instead.

Seeing Liu Xie agree not to weep, both Guo Jia and Jia Xu breathed sighs of relief. They genuinely feared that Liu Xie would embarrass himself by openly sobbing with Kong Rong in the Great Hall—a spectacle unbefitting his status.

After discussing Kong Rong’s situation, Liu Xie kept Guo Jia and Jia Xu seated for some time, asking them about various questions he encountered during his recent studies before finally letting them leave.

Even after they departed, Liu Xie did not retire to bed. He picked up a new bamboo scroll and continued reading late into the night.

His diligence was not merely a show for Jia Xu and Guo Jia; it reflected his genuine commitment to action.

“If I remain stagnant, relying solely on acting skills and empty rhetoric, Yuan Shu’s fate will be my future.”

“I can temporarily find comfort under Yuan Shao’s protection, but eventually, I must seize his legacy, leading us to an inevitable struggle to the death.”

“Should I succeed, I’ll still face countless heroes across the land.”

“And if I fail, certain death awaits me!”

As the night deepened, stars twinkled overhead, while inside the room, the dim light flickered like a tiny flame.

Liu Xie remained engrossed in his studies, bent over the scrolls.

Kong Rong and Tai Shici’s journey proceeded smoothly.

Initially, Cao Cao dispatched his men to escort them through Yuzhou and Yanzhou territories. Upon reaching the border of Jizhou, Yuan Shao’s forces promptly took over.

No one wanted Kong Rong harmed within their jurisdiction; it would have been impossible to justify otherwise.

As Yuan Shao’s troops neared Yecheng with Kong Rong under protection, Yuan Shao himself led a delegation out of the city to welcome him.

“Prime Minister, your long journey must have been arduous,” said Yuan Shao. “I’ve arranged for food, hot water, and neatly prepared rooms at the official inn. Please rest there before continuing.”

Yuan Shao dismounted his horse and walked up to the modest carriage, showing utmost respect to Kong Rong. Having closely monitored Kong Rong’s every move in Xu County, he opted only for arranging accommodations and refreshments, unlike Cao Cao who hosted grand banquets.

“Let my attendants deliver our luggage to the inn. Since we’ve reached Yecheng, I should first pay respects to His Majesty. Governor of Ji Province, kindly lead the way,” came Kong Rong’s aged voice from inside the carriage.

Yuan Shao smiled mildly. “As you wish, Prime Minister.”

Under the blazing sun, Tai Shici carried Kong Rong’s seal of authority and baggage towards the official inn while Kong Rong accompanied Yuan Shao in the carriage, slowly entering Yecheng.