When Ye Wenhui truly faced Dugu Yue, an invisible sense of oppression became palpable. It was a pressure stemming from imperial authority and power, making him feel an involuntary awe and submission.
This sense of oppression also inexplicably calmed his heart. He knew that with Dugu Yue's assistance, the crisis facing the Ye Family Ancestor might be resolved smoothly.
The high-ranking officials, upon hearing the news, displayed varied expressions, glancing sideways at one another, secretly speculating that the family head's actions must carry profound meaning and were certainly not without purpose.
Thus, the pressure felt by everyone regarding Li Siyuan and his group unconsciously eased a little.
Inside the Tianyang Prefecture residence, Zhong Tianhao sat upright, listening to his trusted aide's detailed report about the Ye Family Ancestor's situation and the various conditions proposed by the family head.
After hearing the report, Zhong Tianhao furrowed his brows tightly. After a moment of contemplation, he slowly nodded in acceptance of the Ye Family Ancestor's proposal.
He understood that even if he allied with Li Siyuan, he would merely be relegated to a general's position, losing the former prestige and power he once held as a governor. In contrast, the conditions offered by the Ye Family Ancestor were undoubtedly more favorable and enticing.
With his decision made, Zhong Tianhao's expression turned serious as he instructed his aide: "Go back to the Ye Family Ancestor and convey my message. Tell him that I, Zhong Tianhao, am willing to join hands with the Ye Family Ancestor to put on a grand show and completely eliminate Li Siyuan's forces."
As for the specific details, come closer; I will whisper a few words to you. After saying this, Zhong Tianhao spoke softly to his aide. The aide's face showed astonishment, but he dared not ask further questions and hurriedly took his leave.
A few days later, in the imperial court of Qin State's capital, Li Siyuan held a letter in his hand—it was Zhong Tianhao's letter of surrender.
The letter contained extremely humble language, filled with praise for Li Siyuan and Prime Minister Zhao De. It seemed as if Li Siyuan was a savior in Zhong Tianhao's eyes, while Zhao De was portrayed as an unparalleled pillar of wisdom for the nation.
Faced with such accolades, a proud smile involuntarily appeared on Li Siyuan's face; he even felt somewhat elated and lost in his own thoughts.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Zhao De was not swayed by this sudden praise. His brow furrowed deeply as he gazed thoughtfully into the distance, seemingly pondering more profound issues. He slowly spoke up to remind Li Siyuan: "Your Majesty, recently the influence of the Ye Family Ancestor has been increasingly evident. Even if Zhong Tianhao does not intend to bet on both sides, he will surely propose some conditions as bargaining chips for his surrender."
"How could he so easily lay down his arms without mentioning any terms?"
Upon hearing this, Li Siyuan's smile slightly faded but still carried a hint of disdain and confidence. He waved his hand dismissively and interrupted Zhao De: "You worry too much, Prime Minister. I know Zhong Tianhao well; he is merely a cowardly and indecisive person who poses no threat."
"His surrender is undoubtedly due to fear from our Qin State’s army pressing down upon him."
Zhao De wanted to persuade him further but saw that Li Siyuan was unwilling to listen any longer. He interrupted Zhao De again with firm conviction: "Even if Zhong Tianhao has some schemes or tricks up his sleeve, they are nothing but fleeting clouds before our Qin State’s overwhelming strength—easily crushed."
Seeing this attitude from Li Siyuan, Zhao De realized that further persuasion would be futile. He could only nod silently while keeping a wary heart. He understood well that in these chaotic times, human hearts were difficult to gauge; only by acting cautiously could one ensure their own safety.
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