Chapter 112: Wine Dissolves Old Grudges, Heroes United in Heart

Chen Wen was appointed Jing'an Army Envoy, taking charge of the defense of three counties.

He instantly became a prominent figure in Chan Prefecture.

This news was like a boulder thrown into a lake, stirring up ripples across Chan Prefecture's military and political circles.

There were those who congratulated, those who envied, and naturally there was no shortage of hidden jealousy and scrutiny.

However, among these many reactions,

Yet one person's attitude stood out particularly.

That was the Commander of the Cavalry Army who had crossed swords with Chen Wen on the drill ground and then suffered successive setbacks in inspections and sparring—Han Tong.

Unexpectedly, on the third day after Chen Wen's appointment,

A courteous invitation was delivered to Chen Wen's temporary lodging at the relay station.

The sender was none other than Han Tong.

Inviting him to his residence for a chat, he specified that only simple wine would be prepared, setting aside official duties, purely for conversation.

Receiving the invitation, Chen Wen felt slightly surprised but did not hesitate.

He well knew that, within Chan Prefecture's system, his relationship with a veteran powerholder like Han Tong was crucial.

If they could turn swords into silk, it would greatly benefit the rear stability of the Jing'an Army,

or on future possible joint operations, it would be highly advantageous.

That night, as the lanterns were first lit,

Chen Wen brought only Shi Dun as his attendant, arriving at Han Tong's residence in a light entourage.

The gate stood open, and Han Tong himself came out to greet him at the door.

He was not in military uniform, wearing only a neat civilian outfit, his face bearing a frank yet slightly complex smile.

"Commander Chen, your august presence graces my humble abode!"

Han Tong clasped his fists, his voice like a great bell.

Compared with before, his tone lacked the faint arrogance and had more sincerity.

"General Chen, you're too formal—just call me Wen Zhong."

I am honored by the General's invitation.

Chen Wen returned the salute with clasped hands, his demeanor neither humble nor arrogant.

The two linked arms and entered the mansion, where the banquet was set in a secluded pavilion in the rear garden.

As the invitation had said, no one else was present—only a few personal guards stood watch in the distance.

The hall's furnishings were simple.

A square table, several refined dishes to accompany drink, and a sealed jar of strong liquor; the atmosphere was private and relaxed.

Host and guest seated, Han Tong personally broke the clay seal.

The rich aroma of the wine instantly filled the air.

He poured a full bowl for Chen Wen and another for himself.

Then he raised his wine bowl, his expression turning solemn:

"Chen Brother, this first bowl of wine, I, Han, offer to you!"

Without waiting for Chen Wen's reply, he tipped his head back and gulped down a large bowl of strong liquor with a "glug-glug" sound.

The liquor streamed down his beard, showing his boldness.

Setting down the bowl, he wiped his mouth and fixed Chen Wen with a piercing gaze:

"This drink is to make amends!"

"Back at the drill ground, I was blind and offended you, Brother; I hope you can forgive me!"

Seeing this, Chen Wen said nothing more, likewise raised his bowl and drained it in one gulp.

The fiery liquor burned his throat, yet his expression did not change.

Setting down the bowl, he said, "General Han, you overpraise me."

"Back then we each pursued our own duties, our positions differed—how could there be any offense?"

"Rather, later at the training ground, the valor of your troops left a deep impression on me."

Han Tong waved a hand, a hint of shame appearing on his face:

"What bravery can a defeated general claim?"

"Chen Brother—no, Wen Zhong—we are both men of the army; no need for prevarication."

"To speak frankly, when I first saw you young and suddenly favored by the commander, I certainly harbored resentment!"

"I thought it was mere luck, or perhaps some flattery."

He paused, then gave a self‑mocking smile?

"But later, when inspecting the new recruits, the troops you trained were full of spirit;"

"on the sparring platform, those few lads of yours were like tigers descending the mountain;"

"and then this recent river expedition—hey, capturing corrupt officials, suppressing fierce bandits, repairing waterworks, pacifying the populace—every single task was done splendidly!"

"Moreover, you ferreted out the hidden menace of the Iron Crow Army!"

He then refilled wine for himself and Chen Man, his tone turning heavy and sincere:

"I, Han, am a rough man, but not devoid of reason."

"In these troubled times, relying solely on bravery and ferocity won't do; one needs genuine talent and the ability to secure the state!"

"Wen Zhong, you have it! I, Han Tong, am convinced!"

Having said that, he raised his bowl again.

Chen Wen could feel the candor and sincerity in his words.

The last trace of resentment in his heart, born of past unhappiness, also dissipated.

He raised his bowl in greeting:

"General Han overpraises me. I merely do my duty."

"The general has garrisoned Chan Prefecture for many years, his fame illustrious; he is truly a pillar of the state."

"In the future, serving under the Prefect, I hope the General will give me plenty of guidance."

"Haha, good! For these words, in Chan Prefecture, if anything comes up, just speak up!"

Han Tong laughed heartily, and the atmosphere became completely harmonious.

After three rounds of wine, five flavors of dishes.

The two talked about military anecdotes, discussed insights on warfare, and found themselves getting along better and better.

Although Han Tong was bold and unrestrained, having long experienced battle, his experience rich, many of his insights let Chen Wen benefit greatly;

And Chen Wen's occasional proposals for new training and tactical ideas also opened Han Tong's eyes, eliciting his admiration.

The night deepened, and a slight intoxication lingered.

Han Tong dismissed the attendants on both sides, leaving only him and Chen Wen in the flower hall.

His intoxication seemed to deepen a little as he leaned in and lowered his voice.

With a hint of worry not easily noticed:

"Wenzhong, my younger brother, you are no longer ordinary, now holding authority over a region; some matters… elder brother I must remind you of a thing or two."

He hiccuped from the wine, yet his gaze grew a bit clearer.

"You did splendidly at Lin River, earning the Prefect's praise; this is good. But… outstanding timber invites the wind to destroy it."

Chen Wen's heart stirred, realizing this was the main point of tonight; he focused and listened quietly.

"Our Prefect is extraordinarily talented and loves talent as his own life; there's no denying that."

Han Tong's voice lowered further.

"But over in Bian Liang…"

He pointed south with his hand and shook his head.

"That emperor (referring to the Later Han Hidden Emperor Liu Chengyou), though young in age, his temperament…"

"Heh, perhaps he does not delight in seeing our Chan Prefecture grow too powerful, especially not liking to see another such tiger general under the Prefect's command."

He sighed:

"Grand Councilor Guo (referring to Guo Wei, adoptive father of Chai Rong, currently serving as Grand Councilor) in the court now also finds his steps difficult."

"Recently, the Imperial Court sent an envoy, ostensibly to bestow rewards, but secretly… they likely inquired much about your affairs."

"Younger brother, your foundation is newly established; you must be cautious, both to defend the Prefect's northern gate and not to be too conspicuous, giving others a handle."

These words were spoken heart-to-heart, openly revealing the hidden worries of the court.

Chen Wen deeply understood their weight, and solemnly raised his cup:

"Thank you, Brother Han, for your frank counsel!"

"This kindness, I will keep in my heart."

"Please rest assured, I know my limits; everything I do puts the overall situation of Chan Prefecture first, and follows the Prefect's orders."

"Good! With these words, elder brother I am relieved!"

Han Tong firmly patted Chen Wen's shoulder; everything was understood without words.

This drink lasted until deep into the night before ending.

Chen Wen and Han Tong left arm in arm, both slightly intoxicated yet in relaxed spirits.

All previous estrangement and suspicion melted away in the wine and frankness.

Walking back to the relay station on the quiet street, the night breeze was slightly cool, dispersing a bit of the intoxication.

Chen Wen lifted his gaze toward the south, toward Bian Liang, his eyes deep.

Han Tong's reminder confirmed some of his earlier premonitions.

The conflict between the central Imperial Court and powerful local fiefdoms seemed to be intensifying.

And he, as a force rapidly rising under Chai Rong, undoubtedly had been pushed to the forefront.

The road ahead was not smooth sailing.

But with the recognition and support of a veteran general like Han Tong,

with Chai Rong's unreserved trust, and furthermore with his own steadily growing Jing'an Army as a foundation.

He harbored no fear, only a calm and resolute determination to meet the challenge.

When heroes are of one heart, their strength can cut through gold.

This Chan Prefecture, and indeed the whole tumultuous world.

He, Chen Wen, was no longer a mere observer, but a participant deeply immersed, the one who moves the pieces.