Chapter 78: Jia Wenhe, Those Who Know Understand

According to historical records, Jia Xu never joined Yuan Shao. Instead, he surrendered alongside Zhang Xiu during Mr. Cao’s second attack on Wancheng and remained loyal to Mr. Cao until his death.

But now, unexpectedly, Jia Xu had appeared in Yecheng.

This development left Liu Xie perplexed, unsure of what strategy lay behind Jia Xu’s move.

“I must discuss this with Guo Jia later.”

“Ah, these limitations are truly bothersome.”

Liu Xie felt somewhat frustrated. Although he enjoyed considerable freedom within the imperial palace, with few restrictions imposed on him,

this liberty was limited. For instance, he couldn’t summon Guo Jia to the palace at any given moment, nor could he freely do everything he wished.

He and Guo Jia could only meet periodically to avoid arousing suspicion.

However, there was no choice; they were currently under someone else’s control. Their only option was to stealthily develop their strength, aiming for the day when they could reclaim power and stand as masters once more.

At the Yuan Manor.

Yuan Shao invited Jia Xu to his residence and ordered his subordinates to summon all their strategists for a banquet honoring Jia Xu’s arrival, demonstrating his utmost respect.

During the feast, Yuan Shao sat at the central seat of honor, while Jia Xu occupied the distinguished position to Yuan Shao’s left, signifying high regard.

“Sir, your presence truly brings immense prestige to my humble abode,” Yuan Shao said with a smile, raising his wine cup towards Jia Xu. His words and demeanor showed ample deference.

Jia Xu reciprocated by lifting his cup, responding humbly, “My abilities and virtues are modest, Great General. Your gracious hospitality truly makes me feel unworthy.”

“Hahaha, Sir, there is no need for such humility!” Yuan Shao laughed heartily, expressing his admiration without restraint. “The battle at Wancheng was truly remarkable. It dealt a severe blow to the treacherous Cao Cao, causing him great losses - it’s utterly exhilarating.”

As he finished speaking, the other strategists chimed in, echoing their praise.

Cao Cao’s defeat at Wancheng held extraordinary significance. Although Zhang Xiu’s resentment stemmed from Cao Cao dishonoring his aunt, leading to his eventual attack, the initial reason for Cao Cao’s campaign against Zhang Xiu was that Zhang Xiu had defied the Emperor’s edicts. This prompted Cao Cao to launch a punitive expedition.

Thus, Zhang Xiu’s resistance not only embarrassed Cao Cao but also directly undermined the Emperor’s authority in Xu County, having profound implications.

This outcome was precisely what Yuan Shao desired.

As the mastermind behind Cao Cao’s defeat, Jia Xu undoubtedly emerged as a significant contributor. Coupled with his existing reputation, such warm reception was entirely justified.

After exchanging pleasantries and toasting each other, Yuan Shao subtly signaled Shen Pei at the banquet. Understanding the cue, Shen Pei promptly spoke up.

“Wenhe, while General Zhang led Wancheng’s civilians and troops to Yangzhou, why did you choose Yecheng instead?”

Shen Pei posed this question on behalf of Yuan Shao.

Typically, unless under extreme duress, strategists rarely leave their patrons. Jia Xu had always been well-treated by Zhang Xiu, who shared his hometown and held him in high regard. Therefore, it seemed logical for Jia Xu to accompany Zhang Xiu to Yangzhou rather than coming alone to Yecheng. The situation appeared puzzling.

“Ah,” Jia Xu sighed, a look of helplessness crossing his face. “There are circumstances you may not be aware of, my esteemed friend. I too acted out of necessity.”

“General Zhang, having resisted Cao Cao and killed his eldest son, feared retaliation, hence moved to Yangzhou. However, his departure wasn’t merely fleeing but seeking allegiance with the false Emperor.”

Jia Xu had maintained a good relationship with Zhang Xiu’s uncle, Zhang Ji. If Yuan Shao hadn’t already hosted the Emperor, he might have tried persuading Zhang Xiu to join Cao Cao, taking a gamble on their magnanimity.

But with Yuan Shao having the Emperor, Jia Xu chose not to risk it.

Upon hearing his explanation, astonishment filled the faces of everyone present.

“What a fool!” Yuan Shao couldn’t help but curse Zhang Xiu internally.

Going to ally with Yuan Shu was practically signing his own death warrant. Truly incomprehensibly stupid! No wonder Jia Xu abandoned him; staying with such a moron would inevitably lead to one’s demise.

After understanding the situation, Yuan Shao shook his head and sighed, “I once thought Zhang Xiu was a hero, but now I see he is merely shortsighted.”

“Yuan Shu, the false emperor, defies all righteousness, and heroes across the land should unite against him,” Yuan Shao continued. “By abandoning Zhang Xiu, who sought alliance with traitors, you made the right choice, Sir. Just as noble birds choose wisely where to perch, so must we discern our allegiances.”

Jia Xu also sighed in response, “Although General Zhang treated me well, I am an official of Great Han, receiving its salary. I cannot align myself with rebellious scum.”

Everyone agreed, nodding in unison.

Tactfully, no one mentioned Jia Xu’s past as Dong Zhuo’s general or his advisory role with Li Jue and Guo Si. Those familiar with history understood these implications without needing to voice them.

“Then, sir…” Yuan Shao set down his wine cup and turned to gaze at Jia Xu. “Is your arrival in Yecheng intended as service to His Majesty, aiming to restore the Han Dynasty?”

All this preamble had been leading up to discerning Jia Xu’s true intentions.

Jia Xu replied without hesitation, “Indeed, with chaos reigning across the land—Cao Cao usurping the Emperor’s authority while Yuan Shu declared himself emperor—I am deeply distressed and concerned.”

“Fortunately, His Majesty has the support of the Great General and esteemed ministers. Together, we shall surely vanquish these traitors, rebuild the foundation of Great Han, and usher in its renewed glory!”

“Though humble, I too wish to contribute my modest abilities!”

Jia Xu’s words were firm and righteous, aligning perfectly with the prevailing political stance and the central goal of restoring the Han Dynasty.

Yuan Shao was overjoyed upon hearing this response. “With your assistance, Sir, it is akin to gaining another arm! Your commitment to justice is commendable!”

“Come, come! Pour more wine! Here’s a toast to you, Sir!”

Although Jia Xu claimed allegiance to the Emperor, he was indeed coming to serve Yuan Shao!

Such declarations were merely for appearances’ sake.

Yuan Shao fully understood this, which is why he felt ecstatic beyond expectation. Talents like Jia Xu were rare encounters, surpassing even Ju Shou, Tian Feng, and Shen Pei in ability!

With such talent willing to join his ranks, how could he not be overjoyed?

The atmosphere at the feast grew livelier as fine wine and exquisite dishes flowed like water. Beauties danced while musicians played their instruments, creating a convivial ambiance for all present.

At the end of the right-side seating, Guo Jia savored the wine, observing coldly from afar. His gaze appeared focused on appreciating the dancers’ graceful movements but was actually fixed on Jia Xu.

“Jia Wenhe,” Guo Jia silently repeated this name in his mind.

His intuition told him that Jia Xu’s purpose for coming to Yecheng couldn’t be so simple; there must be another agenda behind it. This suspicion stemmed from what he had heard about Jia Xu’s past actions.

In Guo Jia’s view, Jia Xu excelled at safeguarding himself, possessing exceptional wisdom and foresight, making him truly first-rate. Such a person was highly unlikely to genuinely pledge allegiance to the Han Dynasty.

In some ways, they were quite similar.

Guo Jia sought a wise ruler who would allow him to realize his ambitions, regardless of their identity. Similarly, Jia Xu aimed to ensure his own safety while enjoying wealth and prestige, with no particular concern for whom he served.

Their motivations intersected, albeit driven by different pursuits.

As Guo Jia stared intently at Jia Xu, the latter seemed to sense his gaze and suddenly turned around, their eyes meeting briefly.

Guo Jia smiled faintly and raised his cup in acknowledgment.

Jia Xu reciprocated with a mild nod and lifted his cup.

A thought emerged in Jia Xu’s mind:

“How has this young man risen to become one of Yuan Shao’s advisors? Is it due to extraordinary lineage or profound intellect?”