Chapter 173 Chen Deng pays homage to his father

Chapter 173 Chen Deng pays homage to his father

Chen Deng had no idea about this military expansion and he was originally excluded.

If Chen Deng hadn’t invited him this time, even if Chen Deng found out later, it would be nothing more than a trivial matter.

But now that Chen Deng takes the initiative to speak, Liu Bei has to treat it with caution, otherwise it may cause his important confidant to alienate, which Liu Bei absolutely does not want to see.

Even if the probability is only one percent, Liu Bei cannot accept it.

Liu Bei made a decision quickly, and with a smile on his face, he pulled Chen Deng to sit next to him: "Yuanlong, I'm asking you to come back this time, it's just that the situation has changed."

Chen Deng's whole face can be improved. The circumstances under which Liu Bei said this should not be underestimated.

Liu Bei continued to talk about the attack and defense of Guangling, Sun Ce's sneak attack on Dantu, and the sweep of Wu County. Great changes occurred in Jiangdong. Liu Yao and Liu Biao successively sent envoys to seek an alliance, and they rescued Chen in Yuzhou. Yi, Yishi, Guo Gong and a series of other things were narrated.

Finally, he said: "Therefore, Guangling hopes to expand its army to 20,000. Otherwise, they may only be able to protect themselves and will not be able to assist Liu Zhengli."

The huge amount of information. Zirang Chen Deng was a little confused. He only heard in Langya that the Xuzhou Army successfully recaptured Guangling, and only used half of its troops. The rest of the main force went to Yuzhou and fought with Guo Gong, the governor of Yuzhou.

Even when Guo Gong reported that Zang Ba would take over as the Prime Minister of the city-state, and Liu Bei wanted to arrange for Tian Yu and Qian Zhao to go to Lu and Pei to serve as captains of the country respectively, Liu Bei had just said that.

“That’s it.”

Chen Deng’s eyes were bright and sparkling, and he praised: “Ming Gong is really a hero of the world. He rescued the Lu State and freed Guo Gong. That's the way to go."

Liu Bei blushed slightly. When he received the request for help from Lu Xiang Chen Yi, he really didn't make up his mind, but he vaguely felt that this was a good opportunity. Moreover, if it weren't for the great strength of the elders, who could capture Guangling with a partial force, he might still be sending troops to Guangling City at the moment, so how could he have any spare power to rescue Chen Yi?

But Chen Deng didn't know this. His praise was sincere and his eyes were full of admiration. He really thought that Liu Bei had left no stone unturned.

Liu Bei felt guilty and returned to the topic: "Therefore, the pressure to expand the army this year is too great, so the Langya Army and Langya County soldiers have not been considered for the time being. Please forgive me for this."

Chen Deng heard this, Suddenly he said with a slight dissatisfaction: "Why did Ming Gong say this? Deng is a subordinate of Ming Gong, and it is Deng's duty to relieve Ming Gong from his worries."

Liu Bei was scolded by Chen Deng, but he didn't do anything at all. I don't mind, but I'm still a little happy.

Chen Deng thought for a moment, raised his head and said: "Ming Gong, the location of the Wushui River Valley is indeed extremely important. At present, Cao and Lu in Yanzhou are fighting, and they can't take care of us. There are also Tao Gong's legacy and Xuan Gao's connections. , so there is a chance to fight for it.”

Although Zang Ba made his fortune in Xuzhou, he is an authentic Yanzhou native. Moreover, his hometown is Hua County, the exit of Wushui River Valley towards Langya County.

Zang Ba's family has been a long-time official in Hua County for generations, and his father was very kind to the people of Hua County. He was imprisoned by Taishan County Governor at that time. Many people in Hua County had complained about the Zang family, and they still have benevolence to this day.

When Tao Qian was in power, he also successfully captured Feiguo County and Hua County, and there was also a large number of pro-Xu forces left.

As Chen Deng said, if you take action at this time, you may easily get it and take it for yourself.

But if you miss this point in time, once Cao Lu decides the winner, it will be twice as difficult to do it, and you will have to face the pressure from Cao Cao and Yanzhou.

Chen Deng made an impassioned speech and did not hesitate to promise: "Ming Gong, Deng can raise the rations and weapons for two thousand people by himself. I only ask Ming Gong to give me two thousand new Langya personnel. It will cost the country and China." County and Xian Ming Gong ”

"Yuanlong, why is this necessary?"

Liu Bei shook his head repeatedly: "You and I, the monarch and my ministers, treat each other with sincerity, why is this necessary? Your invitation this time is also for Xuzhou's consideration, how could I not know?"
< br>Many people suspect that Liu Bei is a scheming villain, but in fact, he is particularly easy to fall for, and he is a bit indifferent once he gets taken over.

It was the same when he whipped the postal governor, the same was true for the Pingyuan Society assassins, the same was true when he took Lu Bu in, and the same was true when he refused to let Liu Biao go to Jingzhou.

At this moment, Liu Bei became so proud that he directly boasted: "There are only four thousand people, so why Yuanlong should bother to raise them again? Biquan agreed. When Yuanlong goes back this time, he can gather the people and the food will be available from this year." The portion of the summer and autumn harvests, including military equipment and clothing, will be transferred to you from the Tancheng Prefecture.”

Chen Deng was immediately overjoyed, but after he was overjoyed, he still hesitated to admonish: "Ming Gong loves and cares for Deng, and he is grateful, but four thousand people are not a small number..."

Four thousand The number of people is indeed not a small number. The rations alone require 120,000 dan per year.

This is not a farmer. He can reduce his rations during slack times.

On the contrary, soldiers will eat more during war, and not only increase the number of meals, but also increase the supply of protein.

This is not only the rations, but also supplies clothing, ordnance, camps and other expenses for 4,000 people,

Taking uniforms as an example, a soldier needs at least cloth clothes (200 Wen), trousers (500 Wen), linen shoes (30 Wen), and linen socks (10 Wen). Including changing and washing, at least two sets are required.

Even so, with such a set of clothes, even if calculated at cost price, a soldier would need 1,500 coins just to be uniformed.

This is not even mentioning bedding and winter clothes, both of which are more expensive.

There was no cotton in the Eastern Han Dynasty, so we had to rely on layers of cloth and silk. The rich would stuff silk and silk wadding between the silk to keep warm, while the poor could only stuff straw to keep warm.

A quilt costs 400 renminbi, and winter clothes cost 600 renminbi.

If you also include the Eastern Han Dynasty standard saber of 600 coins and the iron armor of 6800 coins, these four thousand soldiers will cost almost 40 million.

Even without armor, it still costs twelve million dollars.

The expense of raising troops is evident.

"No need to say any more, the matter is settled."

But Liu Bei still waved his hand and decided directly: "There is no need for Yuanlong to be under any pressure, Fei Guoxian If you can take it in Hehua County, there is no need to force it.”

Chen Deng could only thank Liu Bei excitedly at this time.

Liu Bei took Chen Deng to discuss government affairs, and kept Chen Deng to eat in the state capital. He did not let Chen Deng go home until it was dark.

When Chen Deng got home, it was already midnight.

"Have you rested, father?"

Chen Deng has long known about Chen Gui's arrival in Tancheng. Just now, he was discussing with Liu Bei in the state capital to support Chen Gui's return to Xiang County. Take charge of the affairs of Pei State.

After Chen Gui arrived in Tancheng, he moved directly into the mansion left by Chen Deng.

Therefore, when Chen Deng returned to his home, the first thing he asked about was his father's situation.

The servant hurriedly replied: "The master of the house has not rested yet, and is waiting for you in the study."

"Why not say something earlier."

Chen Deng dismissed the servant and rushed directly Go to his study room.

When Chen Deng came to the study, he found that the lights were brightly lit and his father, Chen Gui, was standing at the door waving to him.

"Father!"

Chen Deng hurriedly stepped forward and saluted: "My child is unfilial and has troubled his father by waiting for a long time. Please punish him."

"What is wrong with my son?" "

Chen Gui stepped forward with a smile and helped Chen Deng up. He couldn't be more satisfied with his eldest son.

Chen Guixian selected Tao Qian. Not only was he elected as the Prime Minister of Pei by Tao Qian, but he also won Chen Deng the opportunity to perform in the field.

Chen Deng lived up to expectations and became a blockbuster. He successfully cultivated fields, which filled Xuzhou's grain depot and made him an important minister of Xuzhou.

Before Tao Qian died of illness, Chen Deng selected Liu Bei.

To be fair, Chen Gui not only supports Chen Deng's choice, but also agrees with it.

Because he also thinks highly of Liu Bei.

But no matter how optimistic they were, they never expected Liu Bei to rise so quickly that the Chen family didn't have time to invest more at the best time.

Fortunately, no matter what, as long as Chen Deng is there, there will be original stocks.

In the entire Xuzhou, apart from Tao Qian's two sons, only Chen Deng and Mi Zhu had original shares.

Looking at his son's energetic appearance, Chen Gui smiled and said: "Have you had dinner at Uncle Fang's?"

Chen Deng smiled heartily: "Uncle Fang is here to prepare for Deng. The chef’s skill with the knife is superb, and the fish meat is as thin as a cicada’s wings. It’s really delicious.”

Having said this, Chen Deng couldn't help but click his tongue, obviously savoring the delicious food.

The "Shanfu Sutra" divides the fish suitable for sashimi into three grades: only one type of crucian carp is included in the first grade, and there are four or five kinds in the second and third grades.

Liu Bei specially prepared crucian carp for Chen Deng in advance, which can be said to be meticulous.

Chen Gui walked into the study with the support of Chen Deng, and the father and son sat down face to face. After sitting down, Chen Gui put away the smile on his face and said seriously: "Uncle Fang relies on you very much, and he has hidden hopes of becoming a general. You should be cautious and humble, and don't be arrogant."

< br>

Chen Deng solemnly replied: "I will obey my father's order and I will never forget it."

"Well, that's very good."

Chen Gui nodded with satisfaction and turned to ask Today's itinerary began: "What did you say to Uncle Fang when you came back today?"

So, Chen Deng told his father all the conversations in the state capital. After all, these were not secrets.

Besides, Chen Gui can be regarded as Liu Bei's subordinate at this time. If he, the Prime Minister of Pei State, doesn't obey Liu Bei's orders, why should he listen to Guo Gong?

After listening, Chen Gui did not speak, but fell into silence.

Chen Deng saw his father deep in thought and did not dare to disturb him, so he waited silently.

After a while, Chen Gui opened his eyes: "It seems that Uncle Fang intends to go south to Yangzhou."

Chen Deng was not surprised at all by his father's words, but nodded and said: "That's it. Liu Zhengli has only been in charge of Yangzhou for two years. He can only really control half of Wu County and half of Danyang County. This time he came to Xuzhou to ask for help is indeed a God-given opportunity."

Chen Gui nodded, then suddenly changed the topic and asked, "I heard that the post of Guangling Prefect is still vacant. I wonder if Mr. Ming has any plans?"

Chen Gui saw that Liu Bei was about to go south to Yangzhou, and Guangling, as an advance base, was not only important, but also a place to make contributions.

Chen Gui can see it, and Chen Deng can naturally see it. He shook his head and replied: "My son asked Uncle Fang, but Uncle Fang said that it is undecided for the time being."

Chen Deng. Gui looked uncertain, hesitated for a long time, and then asked tentatively: "If this is the case, will there be a chance for my son to be transferred to Guangling Prefecture?"

Chen Deng's face changed, and his body straightened up immediately.

But soon, he realized that the person in front of him was his father, so his tense body relaxed slightly, and he swallowed back the scolding that reached his mouth.

Although Chen Deng didn't curse, how could he hide this series of actions from Chen Gui on the other side.

Chen Gui smiled bitterly in his heart. His son was good at everything, but his upright personality was too stubborn. Fortunately, he was with Liu Bei. If the lord was suspicious by nature, he would probably be hard to tolerate.

At this time, Chen Deng's voice rang out: "Father, my child has already prepared the conversation with Uncle Fang. Just this afternoon, my child just proposed a strategy to seize the Wushui River Valley. I also asked for help. Uncle Fang agreed to expand the army by four thousand. At this time, Uncle Fang was interested in Jiangdong, but he still agreed to the child's request, and even rejected the child's suggestion of raising half of the money and food by himself, just because he was worried that the child would be too burdened."

"Ming. If the father treats the child like a national scholar, how can the child not repay the favor? "The child has just proposed the strategy. Fortunately, the father has given me such a great help. If he withdraws at this time, Isn’t it just giving up half way? Besides, how could Ming Gong not know the importance of Guangling? If the child abandons his advice and ignores the important, how should Ming Gong treat the child?”

Chen Deng prostrated himself in front of Chen Gui and said loudly: "Father, even if you blame the child, the child will never obey your orders."

After being scolded by his son, Chen Gui was not sullen or angry.

"Okay, get up. When did my father say that he would blame you?"

Chen Gui said warmly: "You can start well and end well, focusing on things over merit. As a father, I can only be happy, so what? I will blame you."

"Father!"

Chen Deng raised his head in surprise, saw the faint smile on Chen Gui's face, and said happily: "The child was just too excited, spoke fiercely, contradicted his father, and asked his father to punish him."

"Okay, you. My father and son, it doesn’t have to be like this.”

Chen Gui waved his hand, stroking his beard for a moment, and then asked: “Yuanlong, Guangling is on the front line of going south to the east of the Yangtze River. It is indeed a place where you have something to do. It's a pity that you can't go south. However, your two uncles are both in your hometown, and your eldest father also has the qualifications of two thousand stones. Do you think he may compete for this position? "

Chen Dengda as mentioned by Chen Gui? Following his father naturally refers to Chen Yu, Chen Qiu's son.

After he was promoted as Xiaolian, he served as the Councilor of the Central Committee, and later as Yangzhou Mu for Yuan Shu, which can be regarded as two thousand stones. There is no problem in terms of qualifications. More importantly, Chen Yu also Having served as a shepherd in Yangzhou and having some foundation in Yangzhou, he seems to be a very suitable candidate. Even if Chen Deng recommends him, it will not leave Liu Bei with the impression of nepotism.

But when Chen Deng heard this, he shook his head: "Father, don't you still know who your father is?"

It's not that Chen Deng is unfilial and disrespectful to his uncle, it's really that Chen Yu has great ambition and lacks talent. Jia, the ambition is quite big.

As the top noble family in Xuzhou, the Chen family is actually very familiar with the Yuan family.

Official history has recorded that Chen Gui, Chen Yu, Yuan Shao and Yuan Shu were all sons of the public clan and had known each other since childhood.

Compared to Yuan Shao, the Chen brothers were closer to Yuan Shu, otherwise Yuan Shu would not have recommended Chen Yu as the shepherd of Yangzhou.

It has to be said that Yuan Shu actually has some strategies. He proposed that Chen Yu be appointed as the pastor of Yangzhou. On the one hand, he can use Chen Yu to control Yangzhou. On the other hand, he can also win over the Chen family in Xiapi to expand to Xuzhou after establishing a foothold in Yangzhou. Be prepared.

The reason why Yuan Shu chose Chen Yu instead of the powerful Chen Gui was because he was worried that Chen Gui was too powerful and would turn against his clients.

But what he never expected was that Chen Yu had a high vision but a low hand. He had little ability but great ambition.

After Chen Yu saw Yuan Shu defeat Kuang Ting, being chased by Cao Cao and losing three games in a row, abandoning his helmet and armor and running for 700 miles before escaping with his life, Chen Yu's mentality changed subtly.

Not only did he refuse Yuan Shu to enter Shouchun, he even sent troops to attack Yuan Shu and almost captured Yuan Shu alive.

Yuan Shu fled to Yin Ling and lingered for a while. In desperation, he could only use a delaying strategy to pacify Chen Yu. Then he collected the defeated troops and combined with the Sun Army led by Sun Ben, first defeated the Zhou brothers, and then intimidated Chen Yu. The latter was so scared that the latter abandoned the city and fled back to his hometown Xiapi.

In this way, Yuan Shu originally wanted to win over the Chen family in Xiapi, but because of Chen Yu's magic operation, Chen and Yuan completely turned against each other and even became life-and-death enemies.

It is precisely for this reason that the Chen family supports Chen Deng in choosing Liu Bei, showing a firm attitude that they are optimistic about Liu Bei and are willing to go out and spend 100,000 yuan for Liu Bei.

From this point of view, Liu Bei's ability to take control of Xuzhou is really thanks to Chen Yu, a mediocre man with high ambitions but low abilities.

However, Chen Yu himself does not feel that his ability is low. He has always been ambitious and looking for opportunities.

First, he sent his precious son Chen Wan to Chen Deng, hoping to use Chen Deng's help to arrange for his legitimate son, and now he wanted to use Chen Gui to seek the post of county governor.

Chen Deng doesn't like Chen Yu at all. The move south to Jiangdong is obviously the top priority of Xuzhou in the next stage. How can we let a waste like Chen Yu ruin our master's affairs.

Therefore, Chen Deng refused unceremoniously: "The appointment of Guangling will affect the strategy of Jiangdong. My father was incompetent and intervened hastily. If something goes wrong, he can't afford to be punished. It's a trivial matter. He ruined the Ming Dynasty." What will happen to Gongnan's great cause of going to Jiangdong? "

Chen Gui knew that his son was right. In fact, he didn't want to mention it, but Chen Yu had long been eyeing the position of Guangling Prefect.

It’s not that Chen Gui and Chen Yu have long seen through Liu Bei and his son’s plan to go south to Yangzhou, but Chen Yu still misses Yangzhou. Guangling is the closest to Yangzhou, and it happens to have just recovered Xuzhou. Coincidentally, there is no official Zifu Jun yet.

This series of coincidences gave Chen Yu a considerable illusion, making him feel that this position was simply given to him by God.

When it comes to ability, strategy, and virtue, Chen Gui beat Chen Yu ten times.

But Chen Gui couldn't let go of Chen Yu. After all, his uncle Chen Qiu was as close to Chen Gui as a father and son.

Compared to his two sons, Chen Qiu devoted more resources to cultivating Chen Gui.

Although Chen Gui was supported by Tao Qian to become the Prime Minister of Pei, Chen Yu was supported by Yuan Shu to become the Mu of Yangzhou.

These two things seem to be the same, but in fact they are very different.

Chen Gui had already experienced Ren Liangqianshi before this, and his resume was extremely impressive. He made his debut as a filial piety and was the magistrate of Ju County, the seat of Beihai Kingdom.

For those with more than 10,000 households, they are called magistrates, and for those with less than 10,000 households, they are called chiefs

The county magistrate's salary ranges from 600 to 1,000 shi, but the county magistrate only has 300 to 500 shi.

Zhao Yu, Wang Lang, Zang Hong, and Liu Yao were also born in Ju Xiaolian. They were all from famous families, but they could only serve as county magistrates, and their starting points were two levels lower than Chen Gui.

Later, Chen Gui also became the Prime Minister of Jibei.

It can be seen that Chen Gui's two thousand stone resume was obtained from the imperial court and was upright, not represented by Tao Qian. In contrast, if Chen Yu was not selected by Yuan Shu, how could he have the qualifications of two thousand stones.

Therefore, Tao Qian recommended Chen Gui because he wanted to use Chen Gui's ability and reputation to occupy the country of Pei.

As for Chen Yu, he was just a tool Yuan Shu set up to take advantage of him.

Not to mention Chen Yu’s crotch-stretching performance since then.

Chen Gui had no troops or power in Pei State, but he still insisted on retreating to Xiapi until Cao Cao's troops came to the city.

But Chen Yu, who had thousands of soldiers and horses, fell into Yuan Shu's delaying strategy. He was really stupid.

(End of this chapter)