619. Family Time

If you want to read 20 Chapters ahead and more, be sure to check out my Patreon!!!

Go to https://www.patreon.com/Tang12

___________________________

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."

A murmur spread through the hall at this revelation. The subtlety and precision of Jia Xu's strategy were undeniable.

Lie Fan's lips curled into a faint smile. "Wenhe, your mastery of strategy and intrigue never ceases to amaze me. The balance of power in the south now shifts further in our favor. Ensure that our agents remain vigilant. Lingling's instability may present further opportunities, but we must be cautious not to overextend ourselves."

Jia Xu inclined his head. "As always, my lord, I will see to it."

With all the reports delivered, Lie Fan rose from his seat, his gaze sweeping across the room. "You have all done exceptional work. The challenges before us are great, but so too are the opportunities. Together, we will continue to build a realm that stands as a beacon of strength, wisdom, and prosperity."

The advisors and generals rose as one, bowing deeply. The unity in the room was palpable, a testament to the bond shared by Lie Fan and his trusted council.

As the meeting adjourned, Lie Fan and Lu Lingqi rose from their seats, their steps measured as they exited the Governor's Castle. Flanked by three of Lie Fan's elite bodyguards, the Yellow Ghosts, the pair moved through the quiet corridors, the weight of leadership gradually giving way to the anticipation of home. The streets outside were still alive with the echoes of celebration, but Lie Fan's mind had shifted to more personal matters.

The journey to the Lie Clan residence was short, the path illuminated by lanterns swaying gently in the evening breeze. As they approached, the familiar warmth of home began to dispel the residual tension of their long and arduous campaign.

When they reached the gates, the residence was already alive with activity. Servants moved quickly but quietly, ensuring everything was in place for their master's return. As Lie Fan and Lu Lingqi stepped inside, they were greeted by a sight that instantly softened the edges of their wearied hearts.

Waiting in the grand hall were Lie Fan's other wives, Ying Yue, Diao Chan, and Cai Wenji. Beside them stood Lie Fan's younger sister, Wannian, her expression bright with excitement. At the center of it all were the children, a lively mix of laughter and curiosity.

Chenchen and Yaoyao, the nine year old twins, were the first to rush forward. Chenchen's determined expression mirrored his father's, while Yaoyao's playful demeanor was a blend of her mother's charm. "Father! Mother Lu!" they cried in unison, their voices high pitched with excitement as they clung to their parents.

Behind them came the five year olds, Yanyan and Nuonuo, their small legs carrying them forward as quickly as they could. They giggled as they hugged Lu Lingqi's legs, their admiration for their warrior mother Lu evident.

Lastly, Diao Chan stepped forward with the youngest, baby Xuanxuan, nestled in her arms. The one year old babbled incoherently, his chubby hands reaching out toward his father.

Lie Fan knelt down, his arms wide open to embrace his children. "Chenchen, Yaoyao, Yanyan, Nuonuo, my little cuties, I've missed you all so much." His voice was thick with emotion as he held them close.

Turning to Diao Chan, he gently took Xuanxuan into his arms, marveling at how much the baby had grown in his absence. "And you, Xuanxuan, already so big. Have you been taking care of your mother?"

The baby gurgled in response, eliciting a chuckle from everyone present. Lu Lingqi knelt beside Yanyan and Nuonuo, ruffling their hair affectionately. "You two look like you've been growing into proper warriors already. Have you been practicing your forms?"

Yanyan puffed out her chest proudly. "Yes, Mother Lu! Auntie Wen has been teaching us!"

Lie Fan stood, carrying Xuanxuan as he turned his attention to the women of his household. "Yue'er, Chan'er, Wenji, my wives, you've kept everything together in my absence. For that, I am endlessly grateful."

Ying Yue smiled softly. "It is our duty as much as it is yours, my husband. You carry the burdens of uniting the land, while we carry the burdens of the home. Together, we create balance."

Diao Chan added, "And the children give us all the strength we need. They remind us what we're fighting for."

Cai Wenji, always thoughtful, spoke last. "Your victories bring security to this family and to the people. But we are happiest when you return safely to us."

Lie Fan's expression softened further. "I am fortunate to have such strong and wise women by my side."

The family moved to the central sitting area, where a modest feast had been prepared. Though the grand banquet was two days away, this was a more intimate celebration, a moment for the family to reconnect. The children chattered excitedly, asking questions about the campaign and marveling at the stories their father and mother shared.

"Did you fight lots of bad guys, Father?" Chenchen asked, his eyes wide with wonder.

Lie Fan laughed, ruffling the boy's hair. "We did, but we also worked to bring peace to those who needed it. Fighting is only one part of being a leader, my son. Remember that strength comes not just from the sword, but from the heart."

Yaoyao, ever inquisitive, chimed in. "And what about you, Mother Lu? Did you help Father win?"

Lu Lingqi nodded, a proud smile on her face. "Of course. Your father and I fought side by side. But just like him, I also learned that courage means protecting what matters most, not just fighting."

The children listened intently, their admiration for their parents growing with each word. As the evening progressed, the mood shifted to one of quiet contentment.

The younger children grew sleepy, their heads nodding as they leaned against their parents. Servants came to gently carry them to bed, leaving the adults to enjoy a brief moment of calm.

Wannian, who had been mostly silent during the reunion, finally spoke. "Brother, you've done so much for this family and this land. But don't forget to take care of yourself. Even the strongest need rest."

Lie Fan smiled at his sister's concern. "You're right, Wannian. I'll take this time to recover. The battles ahead will require all my strength."

The night wore on, and eventually, the family retired to their chambers. Lie Fan stood for a moment outside the children's rooms, watching them sleep peacefully. The sight filled him with a renewed sense of purpose.

After lingering outside the children's rooms, Lie Fan quietly stepped away, his footsteps soft against the wooden floors of the residence. The peaceful scene of his sleeping children had filled him with a deep sense of fulfillment, but another part of him longed for the warmth and companionship of his wives.

He made his way to the living room, a private indoor space designed for the family to gather informally without the need for rigid etiquette or rules. It was a sanctuary, a space for laughter and connection.

Inside, his wives were already waiting. Ying Yue was seated gracefully, her composed demeanor as radiant as ever. Diao Chan was cradling a cup of tea, her elegance accentuated by the soft glow of the lanterns. Cai Wenji, ever thoughtful, was quietly perusing a scroll, her fingers idly brushing the edges of the parchment. Lu Lingqi stood near the window, gazing out momentarily before turning to join the others.

When Lie Fan entered, all their faces brightened. Ying Yue was the first to speak, her tone gentle and welcoming. "Husband, we were wondering when you would join us. The night feels complete now that you're here."

Lie Fan smiled, his heart warmed by her words. He took his seat at the main chair, a central position that signified his role as the head of the family but also as their equal partner in this shared journey. "I couldn't stay away for long," he said, his voice carrying a note of tenderness. "This is where I find my peace."

As he settled in, the room seemed to come alive with conversation. Ying Yue began sharing the day-to-day happenings of the household, recounting small but meaningful moments that had occurred during his absence. "Chenchen has been particularly diligent in his studies," she noted with pride. "He has a sharp mind, much like his father. And Yaoyao… well, she's been using that sharp mind to devise new ways to evade her tutors."

The group laughed, the sound warm and unrestrained. Diao Chan chimed in next, her voice soft and melodic. "The younger girls, Yanyan and Nuonuo, have taken a liking to explore the garden. They've even begun naming the birds that visit. I think they take after Wenji's poetic spirit."

Cai Wenji smiled modestly. "They are curious and imaginative. It's a joy to see the world through their eyes." She set aside the scroll she had been reading and turned her full attention to the conversation. "And what of your campaign, my husband? We've heard the broader news, but I'm sure there are stories you haven't yet shared."

Before Lie Fan could respond, Lu Lingqi leaned forward, her warrior's energy adding a spark to the gathering. "There are plenty of stories, but not all of them are for the children's ears. Like the time we faced Yuan Shao's army on Nanpi…" She began recounting the tale, her animated gestures bringing the scene to life.

Lie Fan joined in, adding his perspective and teasing Lu Lingqi about her fierce but reckless bravery. The room filled with laughter as the story unfolded, the shared memories strengthening their bond.

As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, Lie Fan found himself relaxing fully for the first time in weeks. His gaze moved from one wife to the next, each of them bringing something unique to his life. Ying Yue's wisdom, Diao Chan's grace, Cai Wenji's intellect, and Lu Lingqi's fiery spirit, together, they were his strength.

After a while, the conversation turned to a more serious topic. Lie Fan leaned forward slightly, his tone soft but deliberate. "There's something important we need to discuss. Wannian's marriage to Sima Yi is just a month and a half away. Preparations need to be made, and I'll need your help to ensure everything is perfect."

The mood in the room shifted, the women listening intently. Ying Yue was the first to respond, her expression thoughtful. "It's a significant union, both for our family and the Sima Clan as it will strengthen our bomd. I'll oversee the arrangements for the ceremony itself. It must reflect both our family's honor and the respect we have for Sima Yi's household."

Diao Chan nodded, her gentle demeanor steady. "I'll focus on preparing Wannian personally. She's young and may feel overwhelmed by the expectations of marriage. I'll guide her as best I can."

Cai Wenji added, "I'll ensure that the cultural and ceremonial details are flawless. Sima Yi is a man of intellect and his clan is the same as well, he'll appreciate the thoughtfulness in every detail."

Lu Lingqi crossed her arms, a determined look on her face. "And I'll handle the more practical aspects, security, logistics, and ensuring that no unforeseen problems arise during the event."

Lie Fan smiled, gratitude evident in his eyes. "Thank you, all of you. I knew I could count on you. This marriage isn't just about politics; it's about ensuring that Wannian feels supported and loved as she steps into a new chapter of her life."

The discussion continued, the women offering ideas and suggestions, each bringing their unique perspective to the preparations. As the night deepened, the conversation shifted back to lighter topics, the group savoring these rare moments of intimacy.

Lie Fan felt a profound sense of gratitude for the life they had built together, a life rooted in love, respect, and mutual support. Eventually, the hour grew late, and one by one, the women began to retire for the night. Lie Fan remained for a while longer, sitting alone in the quiet living room. The lanterns cast a warm glow over the space, and he allowed himself a moment of reflection.

_____________________________

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