Chapter 120 The Strategy of Exhausting the Enemy's Strength
"I'm not employing any covert tactics, but overt strategies," Steven explained to Henry, his tone measured and confident.
"Not everyone in their ranks is a fool; there are some sharp minds. Take Chase and Caitlin, for instance—they're astute and cunning. They've surely deduced that my aim is to undermine their power structure. But what of it? I've already demonstrated our formidable military might and dangled just enough benefits to lure the simpletons among them."
"And therein lies the truth—a rabble harbors a far greater proportion of fools than wise men. Chase and Caitlin can't steer the discourse nor muster enough influence to rally everyone. Those who see only immediate gain and rush headlong into ruin are always in the majority." Steven sighed deeply. "Even former presidents have shown a tendency toward short-sightedness; how much less can we expect from the inhabitants of this modest neighborhood."
Henry was visibly taken aback by Steven’s insights. The depths of Steven's strategy were beyond his full comprehension, leaving him to nod with a semblance of understanding.
Scratching his head, Henry mustered a smile to mask his bewilderment. "What you're saying... makes a lot of sense!"
Changing the subject, Henry inquired, "But why have them farm? In this bitter cold, they can't possibly grow crops, can they?"
Steven gazed thoughtfully towards the door, and Henry, catching his cue, swiftly verified their privacy. "There's not a soul outside; you can speak freely."
Steven's lips curled into a knowing smile. "Sometimes, the simplest explanations are the most effective; don’t overthink it."
"I’ve instructed them to farm to heighten their internal discord and drain their resources," he elaborated. "Right now, the only thing they can provide is their labor, however futile it may be."
Henry's brow furrowed in contemplation before he ventured, "Is this part of a strategy to deplete the enemy's strength?"
"That's the idea." Steven's eyes narrowed, a glint of determination flaring. "If I had eradicated all their building managers today, our next encounter would demand even greater bloodshed. My goal is to sap their combat readiness as much as possible."
Steven leaned closer, his voice taking on a graver tone. "These people are not to be trusted. Our conflict is bound to escalate to violence sooner or later. In the meantime, we cannot afford any lapse in vigilance.""And you must absolutely keep this conversation confidential!" he pressed.
Henry, now profoundly admiring of Steven’s sagacity, nodded solemnly. "I understand. Steven, our family's survival hinges on you. I'll follow your lead in everything."
Steven acknowledged Henry's commitment with a nod of approval. "Good. We'll proceed according to plan and see how far they can push themselves."
Steven had only revealed a fraction of his stratagem to Henry. In reality, his machinations ran deeper.
He was already aware of a saboteur in Building 25—someone colluding with outsiders. This traitor had crossed him before and was likely to try again. For instance, there had been the ambush by the Crazy Wolf Gang out in the snow.
Steven returned to his quarters and checked the surveillance footage of Elinor's room.
These days, Steven kept a much tighter rein on Elinor. In the face of the impending battle, even though he trusted Elinor not to betray him, prudence dictated caution. One misstep could cost him his life.
No one would be careless in the face of life and death.
Steven had confiscated Elinor's phone, and every time he left, he locked her in her small room, ensuring she couldn't emerge. Yet, Elinor possessed remarkable self-discipline. A smart woman, she knew exactly what was permissible and what was not. At the very least, she would never challenge Steven's authority; she complied obediently with whatever he mandated.After all, she was the maid, and Steven was the master. His commands were absolute.
At this moment, Elinor was doing yoga in her room. She wore a pink tank top that accentuated her curves as she moved gracefully, making one wonder if the thin fabric might give way. Her brown yoga pants showcased her perfectly toned legs, the product of consistent exercise.
When Steven arrived at her door, he unlocked it with his key. Elinor looked up, her forehead glistening with sweat, a wisp of hair artfully clinging to her skin, an image of irresistible allure.
"You're back!" she exclaimed, delighted. Rising swiftly, her eyes sparkled with genuine joy. She knew Steven had embarked on a crucial mission earlier, and his relaxed demeanor hinted at favorable outcomes.
Elinor approached Steven, wrapping her arms around his neck, eyes bright with curiosity. "How did the negotiations go?" she asked.
Her proximity was intoxicating, her chest pressing naturally against Steven’s in a way that could incite passion in an instant. One more glance at her form could make a man combust with desire, and any closer would render him powerless under her charm.
But Steven didn’t falter. Instead, he felt invigorated. He embraced Elinor, kissed her fervently, and guided her to the couch.
"For the next few days, we'll do this..." Steven told Elinor about the negotiations.
It may not have been of great significance, but sometimes a man needed to confide in a woman while discussing crucial matters.
Then, with a note of warning in his voice, he added, "The next few days might be chaotic, so stay home and don’t venture out."
His eyes glinted coldly. "Very soon, all this trouble will be eradicated."
Elinor nestled against Steven’s chest, not fully understanding his words since he had only given her a superficial account. Yet, she smiled happily. Steven’s insistence on her staying home implied his concern for her safety, which warmed her heart.
For Elinor, nothing would be more important than his care for her.
"Steven, you must be under so much pressure, and I’m powerless to help you. Sometimes, I feel utterly useless," she confessed, a hint of guilt in her voice.
Steven looked down at her, considering his unspoken thoughts. 'Having you is like buying insurance. It’s not for the payout, but for the peace of mind in case something goes awry.'
Elinor’s cheeks flushed, and she clung tightly to Steven. "But there are some things I can help with. For example, I can help you relieve some of that stress," she whispered suggestively.
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