Chapter 317 Xun Chen’s Integrity
Ou County, Hejian County, Jizhou.

This place is closest to Yijing in Youzhou, and the two places are more than ten miles apart. It is where Yuan Shao’s camp is located.

After going through untold hardships, Xun Chen finally arrived in Yu County, but he did not see Yuan Shao in person for several months.

He repeatedly asked his fellow Yingchuan native Guo Tu and others to pass on the message, but his response always fell on deaf ears.

It is clear that Xun Chen is smart and talented, but he is being treated coldly.

But in order to repay Cao Cao's kindness, Xun Chen was determined to meet Yuan Shao.

However, if I go ahead and ask for a meeting, not only will I lose face, but I will also be looked down upon. By then, even if I meet Yuan Shao in person, no matter how much I say, it will be of no use.

So, Xun Chen was like a scholar who came to serve Yuan Shao, wanting to do some odd jobs wholeheartedly under Yuan's army.

Yuan Shao was a person who appeared to be generous but was actually jealous. Xun Chen simply expressed his attitude to Guo Tu and was given an unimportant position as a logistics clerk.

It has to be said that Xun Chen has some of the abilities of Xun Yu in doing things. Even as a minor official, he can still achieve something.

Soon his reputation reached Yuan Shao's ears.

Finally, Xun Chen met Yuan Shao.

At this time, a year had passed since the attack on Yi Jing, and most of Youzhou had fallen into the hands of Yuan Shao, and Gongsun Zan only had a small sphere of influence in Fanyang County where Yi Jing was located.

But as long as Gongsun Zan was not eliminated, Yuan Shao would not be able to sleep or eat in peace.

Although he had found a way to capture Yijing, Cao Cao had already invaded Bohai County and expelled Gongsun Zan's cousin Gongsun Du to the Liaodong Peninsula.

Given that Cao Cao was eyeing him covetously, Yuan Shao really wanted to know what the other party meant.

Therefore, Xun Chen's outstanding performance was just an excuse.

Yuan Shao stationed his camp five miles outside of Lu County, and the location of the central military tent was even more luxurious than Jin Mao's previous tent.

One can't help but wonder whether Yuan Shao came here to fight or for vacation.

You have to know that the north is still suffering from a severe drought, and this year's grain harvest is inevitable. Looking at Yuan Shao's behavior, he doesn't care about the lives of the people at all.

Xun Chen adjusted his mentality and appearance, preparing to deal with the upcoming debate. Those were not things he should worry about.

After waiting for more than half an hour, Xun Chen's forehead was slightly sweaty, but he never wavered.

The next moment, Guo Tu came out with a smile, stepped over the nine steps, came in front of Xun Chen and said with a smile: "Youruo, don't talk nonsense when you meet the lord later."

Xun Chen turned his head to look.

Guo Tu said angrily: "You take my kindness for granted! I am doing this for your own good!"

"You know that the master has been in a bad mood recently. If you make him angry, what should I do?"

Xun Chen understood and bowed to Guo Tu, saying, "Thank you for taking care of me these days."

"If we are only talking about private matters, I will not offend Lord Yuan. If we are talking about official matters, I am sorry that I cannot obey your orders."

"You you..." Guo Tu pointed at Xun Chen. He regretted very much that he wanted to help his fellow villager Xun Chen. It would have been better if he had helped Xin Ping and the others.

"Forget it." Guo Tu sighed, "It's my fault for choosing the wrong friends. I didn't expect that there would be someone as weird as you among the Xun family!"

This was a very harsh statement. Xun Chen raised his eyebrows and was about to argue, but was pulled back by Guo Tu.

"Go in quickly, don't keep the lord waiting any longer."

Xun Chen swallowed his words back into his stomach. He understood that this was Guo Tu's revenge on him. After all, he was the one who made the mistake first, so he could only bear it.

Follow Guo Tu all the way into the big tent.

It is called a big tent, but in fact it looks more like a palace. There seems to be the sound of singing and dancing. It is hard to imagine that Yuan Shao has such leisure and elegance.

When he arrived at the center of the big tent, Xun Chen really saw Yuan Shao enjoying the singing and dancing. Although there were only two beauties dancing, it was still too much.

This is during wartime!

Aren’t you afraid that the soldiers below will rebel?
As if to explain, Guo Tu specifically said during the visit: "My lord, Xun Chen from Yingchuan has arrived."

"Is my idea good?"

"Are you feeling better?"

Yuan Shao snorted coldly and waved his hand. After the two beauties tactfully walked into the tent, they found out that the musicians were actually the brothers Xin Ping and Xin Pi.

The two men put down their instruments calmly, as if nothing had happened.

It really opened Xun Chen's eyes.

"Haha." Yuan Shao's expression changed very quickly. He stood up and laughed loudly, saying, "I have heard that Xun Youruo's talent is no less than Xun Yu's. I didn't believe it before, but now I do."

Without waiting for Xun Chen to respond, Yuan Shao said, "I am short of talent under my command, and I need a talent like you to help me. The position of Chief Clerk of Hejian County is vacant, so come and help me organize the whole Hejian County."

Guo Tu reminded him in a low voice in time: "Youruo, this is a great opportunity! The post of governor of Hejian County is also vacant. The lord intends to promote you."

Xun Chen did not change his expression, and ignored Guo Tu's temptation. He folded his hands and bowed, saying: "Thank you, Mr. Yuan, for your kindness. Xun Chen is really honored. However, although I am stupid, I also know the weight of responsibility.

Hejian County is the hinterland of Jizhou, and the people's livelihood and government affairs all need to be carefully planned. I dare not easily agree unless I am absolutely sure. Moreover, Xun has just arrived and is not familiar with the situation in Hejian County. I am afraid that I will not be able to quickly take on such an important position and delay Mr. Yuan's important affairs. "

Upon hearing this, Yuan Shao frowned slightly, but then relaxed his brows and said with a smile, "You are right. I was negligent. However, I, Yuan Shao, have always been flexible in employing people. I value talent over virtue.

You have such self-awareness, which is even more precious. How about this, you stay by my side as a guest and participate in the planning. When you have a comprehensive understanding of Hejian County, you can make a decision. How about that? "

Upon hearing this, Xun Chen thought to himself that Yuan Shao's move not only showed his magnanimity, but also left room for himself, which was indeed a smart move.

Unfortunately, he had already recognized Cao Cao as his master, so he refused and said, "I am grateful for Lord Yuan's kindness. However, people's hearts have already been determined. Although I am not talented, I have already been loyal to Lord Meng De, and I vow to lend a helping hand and work together for the great cause of the world.

Although I am not good at the affairs of Hejian County, I believe that under Lord Yuan's command, there must be many talented people who are capable of taking on this task and leading Hejian to prosperity. Xun Chen is willing to use his humble strength to recommend talented people to Lord Yuan, or to serve elsewhere to show his loyalty. I hope Lord Yuan will help me."

Yuan Shao's face changed slightly when he heard this, but then he returned to normal, with a hint of admiration and regret in his eyes. "If your friend is of high moral character, it is admirable. In this case, I will not force you to do anything.

Since you are willing to recommend talented people to me, Yuan Shao will be more than happy to have them. If you need me in the future, or if you change your mind, my door will always be open to you."

Xun Chen bowed and said gratefully, "Thank you, Lord Yuan, for your understanding."

Since he failed to recruit Xun Chen, Yuan Shao seemed to lack interest.

Seeing that Xun Chen was still standing there, Yuan Shao's eyebrows slowly squeezed into a "川" shape and said, "I still have military affairs to deal with. Military secrets must not be passed on to others!"

The implication of expelling guests in these words was not too obvious, but Yuan Shao did not embarrass him intentionally out of consideration for the face of the Xun family behind Xun Chen.

But how could Xun Chen retreat without completing his mission? This time, he risked his face and stepped forward and said, "Mr. Yuan, you know that you are in great trouble!"

"Oh!"

Yuan Shao slammed the table and shouted angrily: "Nonsense!"

"Someone! Get the fork out!"

At this time, Yuan Shao still didn't want to kill Xun Chen.

However, Xun Chen seemed to be seeking death, and remained calm when the soldiers approached him. He said very quickly: "The general used a trick to drive my lord!"

"With Jizhou in chaos, may I ask how Lord Yuan can face the enemies from both sides?"

As soon as these words came out, everyone in the audience was shocked.

"Wait a minute!"

Yuan Shao stopped the soldiers in time and waved his hand to let the two soldiers retreat.

"what did you just say?"

From the very beginning, Xun Chen never thought of following Xun Yu's wishes. The Xun family motto said that loyalty is more important than righteousness. Since he was loyal to Cao Cao, he could not take into account the brotherhood between him and Xun Yu.

So, Xun Chen told the whole story of how Xun Yu used the strategy, and the part about Cao Cao was naturally omitted.

"Is this really true?!" This time Yuan Shao understood why he had been feeling uneasy these days.

If Xun Chen had not said this, he might have really been stabbed in the back by Cao Cao and lost Jizhou.

However, Yuan Shao also realized another problem: "Cao Aman! How dare you?!"

There were many smart people under Yuan Shao's command, and they saw through the whole plan at a glance.

Shen Pei was the first to jump out and said, "My Lord! Cao is a traitor who deserves death! However, in these troubled times, it is better to have less trouble than more."

Feng Ji and Shen Pei did not get along well, so he jumped out to object, "Shen Zhengnan! Are you going to protect Cao Cao? Gongsun Zan is already a dead body in the tomb, but Cao Cao's son must not be kept alive!
My Lord, I suggest that we destroy Cao Cao first!"

"Everyone, step back!" Yuan Shao was already annoyed, and after being messed around by Shen Pei and Feng Ji, he became even more confused. He couldn't help but look at Ju Su.

"What does General Ju think?"

Ju Su was twisting his beard, thinking, and when he heard Yuan Shao's question, he stood up and said, "Xun Youruo's one-sided statement cannot be fully believed or disbelieved. It depends on what the lord's priority is."

Yuan Shao nodded, his face thoughtful.

Ju Su continued, "Now that Yijing is about to be conquered, the most urgent task is to stabilize the rear and deal with Gongsun Zan first. After that, the rest of the maneuvers will depend on the lord's thoughts."

Yuan Shao clapped his hands fiercely and said, "General, you are truly a god!"

"In this case, how can we stabilize Cao...Mengde?"

Ju Su looked at Xun Chen with a smile and said, "That depends on Xun Youruo's ability."

After a little thought, Yuan Shao figured everything out.

The person who most wanted Cao and Yuan to join forces was Xun Chen. Otherwise, he could have acted according to Xun Yu's strategy.

By then, Cao Cao would definitely stab Yuan Shao in the back, and Jizhou would change hands.

Therefore, Xun Chen must have a way to stop Cao Cao's stupid behavior.

Although it is unclear why Xun Chen was determined to stop Cao Cao, Ju Su's method was indeed very good.

"Xun Youruo, it seems that the first person you want to convince is not me, but Cao Mengde?"

Yuan Shao asked with a smile: "I wonder if you are willing to work for me now?"

Yuan Shao was very vengeful. Xun Chen's rejection of him was still fresh in his mind, so he would not let it go easily.

Xun Chen swallowed his anger again, for no other reason than to make Cao and Yuan join forces.

After staying in the south for some time, Xun Chen was very keenly aware that great changes were taking place in the south.

The previous economic center has always been in the north. According to this logic, Cao Cao's occupation of Jizhou would undoubtedly greatly increase his strength.

The South is now strengthening at a terrifying speed. If the North cannot unite, it will surely be defeated one by one by Jinmao.

Xun Chen knew Cao Cao's ambition. If he wanted to dominate, he couldn't allow one single power to dominate.

Even though an alliance with Yuan Shao would be like seeking the skin of a tiger, cooperating with Jinmao would be like a fish on the chopping board, with no room for resistance at all.

Xun Chen bowed to Yuan Shao and said, "I am willing to go to Bohai County to persuade my lord."

Yuan Shao laughed.

Ju Su tried to stop him, saying, "My lord loves hospitality. How can we let our guests go back to Cao's camp like this?"

"My lord, you should keep Xun Youruo for a while longer. As for Cao Mengde, you can send someone to deliver a letter to him."

"I think Xun Youruo can convince Cao Mengde with letters even if he doesn't use his eloquent speech."

Although Ju Su's idea was good, Yuan Shao was very concerned about his reputation and was very unhappy when his decision was denied to his face.

"General, how can you judge a gentleman by your own mean character?"

Yuan Shao said solemnly: "Xun Youruo is a man of great loyalty and courage. He risked his life for the sake of the alliance!"

"How could such a person betray his oath?"

Ju Su quickly explained: "My lord, you are right. I did not say that Xun Youruo would not keep his promise, but I was worried that Cao Mengde would go back on his word."

"My lord, you know Cao Cao very well. If he changes his mind and vows to take Jizhou, what should we do?"

Upon hearing this, Yuan Shao frowned and a hint of imperceptible worry flashed in his eyes.

He slowly walked to the center of the tent, put his hands behind his back, and after a moment of silence, he said in a deep voice: "General, what you said makes sense. Cao Cao is a cunning and changeable man. We must be on guard against him."

"Then how can Xun Youru convince Cao Cao with just a letter?"

Seeing Yuan Shao surrender, Ju Su bowed and said, "My lord, why worry? We can make two preparations."

"We should rush to capture Yijing, and set up an ambush on the road. As long as Cao Cao is determined to do this, he will be in big trouble!"

"By then, not only will Youzhou fall into the hands of the lord, but Qingzhou and Xuzhou will also be within easy reach!"

"With the four provinces in hand, you can advance to Yanzhou, Yuzhou, Bingzhou, and Liangzhou, or retreat to defend the Yellow River. No matter how capable Jinmao is, how dare he invade Hebei without cavalry?"

Yuan Shao nodded repeatedly and said, "That's exactly what I thought. General, you have spoken my mind."

Then, Yuan Shao looked at Xun Chen and said, "Then please write a copy by hand."

His tone seemed calm, but in fact it was threatening: "Cao A Man's life is in your hands."

Xun Chen felt bitter in his heart, and finally realized the power of Xun Yu's strategy.

It seems that Xun Yu had already predicted that no matter how Xun Chen explained, Yuan Shao would definitely not accept his argument.

By that time, Cao Cao was no longer a human being on both sides and was beaten up by Yuan Shao and Jin Mao, leading to his own destruction.

However, Xun Chen still has a backup plan.

He thanked Yuan Shao calmly, and then went down to write a letter.

In the big tent, Yuan Shao was still chatting and laughing with Ju Su, thinking about how to add fuel to the fire in Xun Chen's letter.

Unexpectedly, a messenger suddenly rushed into the tent and bowed, saying, "My lord, Mr. Xun has committed suicide!"

"what?!"

Yuan Shao stood up in disbelief and asked, "Why did he commit suicide?"

The messenger was speechless.

Ju Su sighed and said, "What a great Xun Youruo!"

"What a great Xun Wenruo!"

"What a vicious plan!"

Ju Su couldn't help but wonder, "Is this really Xun Yu?"

Yuan Shao was confused by what he heard.

Ju Su explained: "My Lord, although we know that Cao Cao has rebellious intentions, we are the ones who are not willing to tear our faces apart."

"Because we don't know where Cao Cao will attack from or when he will launch his troops."

"Do we need to send out a large army and be on guard all the time?"

"Ah?" Yuan Shao was immediately annoyed and said, "It's all your fault!"

Ju Su sighed again. The only thing he had miscalculated was that Xun Chen really dared to commit suicide to show his determination.

This time, Cao Cao must have known to be on guard.

(End of this chapter)