Chapter 40: United Troops 2

  Liu Shanhe listened to Zhang Liang's words and thought for a moment before continuing, "Yes, yes, the Xiang family is the descendant of the Chu general, whether it's reputation or strength, they are unmatched. Mr., you will definitely get what you want this time, I wish you all the best." When he said this, Liu Shanhe's expression became somewhat gloomy. Because he thought of his own sad affairs. Especially when Zhang Liang mentioned Xiang Liang's righteous army was strong and powerful, shaking the four sides, and then thinking that he had just started the uprising and encountered such a heavy defeat, not even able to take down a small Fengxiang, how could Liu Shanhe feel good? However, since he wanted to keep Zhang Liang by his side, he should take action early and look for opportunities.

  Liu Bang couldn't help but let out a long sigh, saying: "Alas, I, Liu Bang, came from a humble background. Even if I were to start something now, it would only be small and insignificant. Until now, I have accomplished nothing, what kind of achievement can I make? While the uncle and nephew of the Xiang family are both intelligent and brave, with great strength, truly admirable!

  Liu Shanhe's words actually have two meanings. On the one hand, it is a compliment to the objective fact of Xiangshi's strong power, which is also a way of advancing by retreating. By using this method, one can turn passivity into initiative and firmly occupy the dominant position on the scene. On the other hand, through this self-pitying approach, he gains Zhang Liang's sympathy, paving the way for the next step to retain Zhang Liang by his side.

  If it weren't for this approach, on the contrary, after hearing Zhang Liang's praise of Xiang Yu's strength, he would only become more jealous and hostile, and naturally wouldn't leave a good impression on Zhang Liang. As a result, his idea of keeping this extraordinary person by his side would also be impossible to achieve.

  "Too kind, too kind!" Xiang Bo heard Liu Shanhe's words and just smiled awkwardly. It was clear that Xiang Bo was a very honest and loyal person, not good at diplomatic rhetoric. At this time, after hearing Liu Shanhe's words, he only knew how to be polite. Naturally, Xiang Bo's cautious speech was also related to his role as the secondary character on this trip to Liu Shanhe's place, with Zhang Liang as the main character.

  But Zhang Liang was very different, his words were refined and elegant as soon as they came out of his mouth, and his expression was calm and composed as soon as he looked at him. Compared to Xiang Bo, the two men were really worlds apart, and it's unknown what kind of fate brought them together to become close friends.

  Liu Shanhe only heard Zhang Liang say: "The words of the Marquis of Pei are not quite right. The ancients said that whoever gains the hearts of the people will gain the world. I think you, Marquis of Pei, have raised the banner of righteousness and benevolence, and since you started your army in Mangdang, you have not committed any offense against the common people, and all the people praise you.

  When you conquered Pei City, there was no bloodshed, no loss of a single soldier or officer. This is indeed a rare occurrence in the world. Since this is the case, why worry that great things will not be accomplished? Although we have few soldiers and officers now, relying on your wisdom, I am not worried that we will not prosper and flourish in the future."

  Liu Shanhe was delighted to hear Zhang Liang's words, as who doesn't like to listen to praise? However, he also knew that this was just a polite remark from Zhang Liang, and there was no need to get too excited. Nevertheless, Liu Shanhe understood the importance of acknowledging the other person's strengths in social interactions, which was a good way to make everyone present feel comfortable. As long as the intention was to build rapport and not to harbor ulterior motives, it was only natural to create a more lively atmosphere, making it easier for all parties to continue communicating effectively.

  "Master Zhang is really overpraising me! We've only just started and although we have a small victory, what's there to brag about?! Please, Master, give us more guidance!" Liu Shanhe's words were sincere, revealing his current true situation while also subtly hinting at the idea of keeping Zhang Liang as a military advisor.

  He paused for a moment, and Liu Shanhe felt it necessary to tell Zhang Liang about his current predicament. Perhaps he could give himself some advice, who knows? Since they had met today, and couldn't keep him permanently to discuss things morning and night, he might as well ask for his opinion to help himself get through this difficult situation, which would be a great gain! Thinking of this, Liu Shanhe continued to say: "A few days ago, I led my troops to Sui Water to kill a group of Qin soldiers. Originally, I left behind a capable general to guard Fengxiang. But when I returned, I found that the one guarding Fengxiang City for me, Yong Chi, had actually betrayed me and defected to the King of Wei! So I led my troops back to punish him, but after several attempts, we were unable to take the city. Alas, these past few days have been spent worrying about this matter! Sigh, isn't it because Liu Bang's current situation is one of isolated weakness that has led to this present state of affairs?!" After finishing this speech, Liu Shanhe let out a deep sigh, with a look of great helplessness. At the same time, his dejected and helpless emotions were written all over his face.

  Not long after, Liu Bang had someone bring up wine and food, and the three of them chatted while drinking. Their conversation was surprisingly pleasant. Of course, Liu Bang would not forget to take full advantage of this opportunity to talk more with Zhang Liang. For a time, it even made Liu Bang feel that Zhang Liang was indeed a hero of his generation, a truly talented person. His strategic vision and boldness were beyond those of ordinary people. During the conversation with Liu Bang, Zhang Liang also felt that this Lord Pei, although from a humble background, had extraordinary insight and a deep understanding of the current situation in the world. Moreover, his words already revealed his lofty ambitions. Furthermore, since Zhang Liang had studied under Huang Shi Gong and learned the three volumes of Taigong's military strategy, he was extremely intelligent and also skilled in observing people's auras. He had a deep understanding of people's appearances and "qi". Today, upon seeing Liu Bang, he noticed that his face was extraordinary, with a full forehead and prominent nose, clearly showing signs of great wealth and nobility!

  Moreover, looking up at the top of his head, there is clearly a thick cloud of air surrounding him, all of which indicates that this Liu Bang is really not an ordinary person and can truly achieve great things in the future. In this way, through the very effective communication and exchange between the wine and the seats, both Liu Shanhe and Zhang Zifang felt like they had met too late, feeling that their conversation was so pleasant that it couldn't be finished in just one or two days! So, in his words, Liu Shanhe expressed his idea of wanting to talk with Zhang Liang for some more time.

  However, he could see that Liu Bang's intention was different. Moreover, his journey had already exceeded the time limit promised to Xiang Liang when he left to invite Zhang Liang, and he felt somewhat embarrassed.

  "As long as Zhang Liang is willing, then let him be. After all, one's feet are on one's own body and one's head is also one's own. If one were to forcibly intervene, things might take a turn for the worse." Xiang Yu thought it over and decided to grant Liu Bang's wish. So after the banquet, he said to Liu Shanhe: "Thank you very much for the generous hospitality of the Duke of Pei. However, I have been away from the military camp for more than 20 days since I left to invite Mr. Zifang to come out of the mountain, which has exceeded the original travel schedule and cannot be delayed any longer. Nevertheless, since the Duke of Pei is so pleased to meet Mr. Zifang, I think Mr. Zifang can stay for a few more days. However, Mr. Zifang also cannot go back on his word, and must hurry back to the Chu army's camp in three to five days!"

  "Please be assured, Elder Zhang will definitely keep his promise. Within three to five days, he will surely come to the Chu camp to meet with you again." Zhang Liang bowed to Xiang Bo.

  "That's good, that's good! Then, Marquis Wu, Zi Fang, and Xiang Bo are taking their leave first!" As he spoke, Xiang Bo flashed out of sight, leapt onto his warhorse, and galloped away, stirring up a cloud of yellow dust.

  Inside Liu Shanhe's military tent, Zhang Liang was talking to him about some of the contents of the three volumes of "Taigong Bingfa" that he had learned. Zhang Liang felt that it had been a long time since he had spoken so freely. This kind of conversation actually requires listeners who can resonate with their own thoughts, and naturally, it is also an important prerequisite for whether the speaker can speak more freely.

  Zhang Liang felt that he had finally met someone who could truly understand his words and resonate with his thoughts. They talked day and night, losing track of time, and sometimes even forgot to eat. The oil lamp was refilled several times as they continued their conversation late into the night.

  All around, it was quiet and still, with only the occasional sound of warhorses neighing and some sentries coughing. The wind swept across the wild grass, making a faint whistling sound. In the sky above, the stars shone brightly. And under that same sky, in the enemy's large tent, two people were chatting happily. Little did they know, it was precisely these two people joining forces that would obtain a foundation for a dynasty that would last over 400 years.

  Liu Bang once again filled Zhang Liang's wine cup, and with a very pleased expression said: "Ah, after hearing Mr. Zifang's military strategy, I really feel enlightened, my heart is much brighter! It's just like in the dark sky, suddenly a bright lamp appears, and it instantly illuminates Liu Bang's heart chamber, all thanks to Mr. Zifang's guidance!"

  Zhang Liang couldn't help but smile slightly after hearing Liu Bang's words, saying: "The Duke of Pei is too polite, the Duke of Pei is too polite!" Then, the two men finished their cups of wine in one gulp.

  "This is indeed a case of 'a thousand cups are not enough when meeting a bosom friend'! In fact, I'm not just flattering you to your face, Lord Pei. You don't know that when I was in exile in Xiaopei, I often studied the Art of War by Sun Tzu and would share my insights with friends when I was excited. However, none of them ever understood me, and they even secretly called me a madman! Haha, it's really laughable! But today, Lord Pei listened to me and not only understood but also easily grasped the underlying principles. This is truly a sign of exceptional intelligence and talent!" What Zhang Liang said was not just flattery, but also his genuine thoughts.

  It is often said that a good minister should choose a wise lord to serve. If one has talent but cannot be accepted and employed, it is also useless. But today, seeing that Lord Pei can understand the military strategy he taught so thoroughly, and can even easily turn one into three, this is truly beyond Zhang Liang's expectations. He really didn't think that he would unexpectedly meet such a talented and extraordinary person, and for a moment, he couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration. And as for Liu Shanhe, it was even more so.

  "Haha, Mr. Zifang is praising me again! Liu Bang was born dull-witted, but today I've received your teachings and it's like the clouds have parted to reveal the sun, my heart is now bright and clear. In the future, I'll still need to ask for your guidance, Mr. Zifang!" Liu Shanhe said with his hands clasped together once more, speaking very sincerely.

  Zhang Liang also nodded towards Liu Bang and said: "The Duke of Pei is truly too modest! I have long heard that when the Duke of Pei first rose up, he beheaded a white snake. That white python was said to be the son of the White Emperor, and the wife of the White Emperor was grief-stricken and said that it was the son of the Red Emperor who killed her child! And the Duke of Pei has always had a special fondness for the color red, with blood-stained banners - isn't this proof that you are indeed the son of the Red Emperor?"

  "Haha, haha, Mr. Zifang, you also believe in these rumors? Haha, those are all nonsense, just jokes! Haha, come on, Mr. Zifang, let's keep drinking, let's drink some more!" As he spoke, Liu Shanhe downed the wine in his cup once again.

  Naturally, Liu Shanhe understood in his heart that Zhang Liang's words were just an excuse for what he had said earlier, "Duke Pei is intelligent and wise beyond ordinary people." The actual situation was known only to Liu Shanhe himself. Although he had indeed experienced such things, this kind of talk couldn't be brought up openly, or else it would become self-incrimination. Of course, if others mentioned it casually, that would be a different matter.

  The two men had a few more cups of wine, and then Liu Shanhe looked at Zhang Liang with an expression that suggested he wanted to say something but was hesitant. However, in the end, Liu Shanhe decided that no matter what, he would express his own thoughts first. So, Liu Shanhe cleared his throat, fixed his eyes on Zhang Liang, and said solemnly: "Mr. Zifang, Liu Bang has a sentence, I don't know if it should be spoken or not."

  "Marquis of Liu, why be so polite? Just speak your mind!" Zhang Liang said with a slight smile. In fact, at this time, Zhang Liang had already guessed what was on Liu Shanhe's mind, but because of the situation, he naturally couldn't bring it up.

  "Well, I'll be bold and say it, I'd like to invite Mr. Zifang to be the military advisor for my righteous army, so I can ask for his advice sooner or later. What do you think, Mr. Zifang?" Liu Shanhe finally spoke out what was on his mind, then looked at Zhang Liang with expectation, waiting for his response.

  After Zhang Liang heard Liu Bang's words, he almost didn't hesitate at all, and cupped his hands towards Liu Bang: "Thank you, Duke Pei, for your kindness. However, I, Zhang Liang, have sworn an oath to my ancestors that I must restore the state of Han and avenge its great shame. Now, my ambition has not yet been fulfilled, so I also dare not delay Your Excellency's grand enterprise!" Zhang Liang's words this time were actually very sincere, not just empty talk. Because once one becomes someone else's military strategist, it means that everything about oneself will follow the will of that lord, and one's own goals may not be achievable. Therefore, although Zhang Liang knew that refusing Liu Bang would make things difficult for him, this was a matter of great importance, and on this issue, there could be no change whatsoever. Without such a firm determination, he wouldn't be Zhang Liang, the Master Zhangzi.

  Liu Bang's face, which had been filled with expectation just a moment before, suddenly fell. He let out a long sigh, seemingly to himself, yet also as if speaking to Zhang Liang: "Alas, talented individuals are hard to come by! It seems that I, Liu Bang, am not blessed with such good fortune!"

  However, Liu Shanhe suddenly changed his mind and said to Zhang Liang: "Hey, sir, can you stay here for a few more days and help me plan the current situation and solve the difficulties I am currently facing? Sir, this time you cannot refuse again!"

  Liu Shanhe understood in his heart that a forced melon is not sweet. Since Zhang Liang couldn't agree with himself at this time, he might as well retreat and seek the next best thing, letting him stay here for a while to help him get out of the current predicament.

  Zhang Liang listened to Liu Bang's words and knew that if he didn't help this Lord Pei, he wouldn't be able to forgive himself. He thought for a moment and then said: "Lord Pei, I have a plan to solve your current problem. Tomorrow is the day I visit Xiang Liang's camp. Why don't you come with me to meet General Xiang Liang and borrow several thousand elite soldiers from him? Then we can go and retake Fengxiang City. It's not that Zhang Liang wants to show off, but Lord Pei's current army is not small in number, however, because it was formed recently and hasn't experienced any major battles, the combat effectiveness of the soldiers is generally low. This is also the main reason why Lord Pei can't take down the city in time. But if we borrow several thousand elite soldiers from Xiang Liang, then taking Fengxiang City would be a trivial matter!

  Liu Shanhe listened to Zhang Liang's words and suddenly felt as if he had been enlightened, his mind was opened, and he couldn't help but nod deeply.

  "All right, as you said, I understand. Early tomorrow morning, I will follow you to General Xiang Liang's place to borrow troops. It is also a good opportunity for me to meet General Xiang Liang. His current strength is the strongest among all the righteous armies after Chen Sheng." Liu Shanhe said to Zhang Liang.

  "Well, Lord Pei, let's stop here for today. Tomorrow morning, we'll head to Xiang Liang's camp together. Once we're there, please take the opportunity to act, and I'll help speak on your behalf." Zhang Liang bowed his hands to Liu Bang.