Inside the imperial prison.
In a solitary cell, Han Fei sat leisurely, sipping wine and reading a book. Although his appearance had become somewhat disheveled, there was no trace of a prisoner's defeat in his demeanor.
As a clever man, Han Fei was well aware that being confined here while still being served good food and drink signified King Qin's intent. All he had to do now was wait for an audience with the king.
At this moment.
In another part of the imperial prison, two gazes fell upon Han Fei.
"Ting Wei, are you going to go through with this?" Yao Jia asked, his expression tinged with unease.
"Do you object?"
Li Si frowned, clearly displeased as he glanced at Yao Jia.
"As a subordinate under your command, of course, I have no objections," Yao Jia replied quickly.
"Fusu and Wang Wan are already showing signs of wanting to ally with Han Fei. If we let him leave this prison alive, he will inevitably become our enemy in the future. His talents others may not know them well, but I do," Li Si said gravely.
"Ting Wei," Yao Jia said meaningfully, "I understand your deep hatred for Han Fei, but he is your old classmate, after all."
Hearing this, Li Si's expression remained utterly unmoved, his face cold as he replied, "When it comes to matters of life and death, what does being classmates matter?"
"Is everything prepared?"
Yao Jia immediately turned to the men behind him and ordered, "Proceed."
Several prison guards approached Han Fei's cell, carrying wine and a small table.
Inside his cell, Han Fei remained calm, quietly watching the approaching guards.
"Han Fei."
"It's been years."
"Do you still remember me?"
Li Si approached slowly, a faint smile on his face.
"Li Si."
Hearing Li Si's voice, Han Fei spoke calmly.
Li Si wasted no time and sat directly across from Han Fei.
"Back when we parted ways at the Jixia Academy, I never imagined our reunion would be under these circumstances. When we last met, I told you that only Qin had the potential to unify the world, and only King Qin possessed the ambition and capability to do so.
"Yet, you refused to believe it. You insisted on returning to Han, and what came of it? The Han king didn't trust you, didn't value you, and treated you with suspicion."
As he spoke, Li Si's tone was filled with both lament and a faint trace of smugness.
Back at Jixia Academy, their teachers, and peers alike had all considered Han Fei more talented and destined for greater achievements than Li Si. At that time, Li Si had silently vowed to overturn such opinions. Now, the tables had indeed turned. He was Qin's Ting Wei, one of the Nine Ministers, while Han Fei had become a prisoner.
Looking at the now slightly disheveled Han Fei, Li Si wore an expression of concern, though inwardly he felt a certain satisfaction.
Listening to Li Si's veiled remarks, Han Fei's face remained composed as he asked, "Did you come here today to mock me?"
"After all these years, do you still not understand whether I'm here to mock or to help you?" Li Si replied, feigning sadness.
"Then let's hear it," Han Fei said, maintaining his calm demeanor.
Perhaps it was because of Zhao Feng's earlier warning to be wary of Li Si, or perhaps it was a certain instinctive distrust. Either way, seeing his former classmate again, Han Fei felt an inexplicable sense of distance and maintained a measure of vigilance.
"Sigh."
Li Si sighed, his face showing a hint of helplessness. "Do you know why the king has kept you in solitary confinement here and has yet to summon you?"
"The king's thoughts are beyond my understanding."
"If the king wanted me dead, a simple decree would suffice," Han Fei said with a faint smile, having resigned himself to his fate. If the king wanted him to live, he would live. If the king wanted him to die, so be it.
"The king is waiting for your stance."
"To serve or not to serve."
"I know you too well. You pride yourself on loyalty and righteousness and would never submit to Qin.
"In the end, the only path for you is death, likely a cruel one under Qin's laws," Li Si said, sighing as if in pity.
Between the lines, however, he seemed to have already decided Han Fei's fate.
"Li Si truly wants me dead, doesn't he?"
"Could Zhao Feng predict this? His warning about Li Si was so precise."
Han Fei, ever the clever man, easily saw through the meaning in Li Si's words. If not for Zhao Feng's repeated counsel, Han Fei might have resigned himself to death. But Zhao Feng had changed his perspective.
To live. To see the world unified.
To live. To witness an era without war.
"It seems Li Si does indeed understand my thoughts," Han Fei said with a faint smile, tinged with sarcasm.
Li Si, still engrossed in his performance, failed to notice the undertone in Han Fei's words.
"All these years of camaraderie do you think I would want to see you suffer?" Li Si said, his tone heavy with feigned sorrow.
"Then what are you proposing?" Han Fei asked calmly, though his heart was filled with cold contempt.
"I have come to offer you an easier path," Li Si said, sliding a wine flask across the table and pouring a cup.
His intention was clear.
"You've truly gone out of your way for me," Han Fei said, smiling faintly, though the smile carried an undertone of mockery.
Li Si, oblivious, continued, "Consider this my last gesture of goodwill as your classmate."
"If the king learns you gave me poisoned wine, will he not punish you?" Han Fei asked, playing along.
"Now that I am Qin's Ting Wei, the king's anger would not result in severe punishment."
"If it spares you pain, it is worth it," Li Si said, his face earnest.
One had to admit, that Li Si was not only a capable official but also an accomplished actor. Without Zhao Feng's influence, Han Fei might have believed this was a genuine concern.
"Li Si truly remembers our old friendship," Han Fei said, feigning heartfelt emotion.
For a moment, Li Si even began to believe his act.
"To spare you trouble, I have decided to pledge allegiance to Qin and serve the king."
"I will not allow you to suffer on my account," Han Fei added.
The declaration shocked Li Si, leaving him momentarily speechless.
"You would submit to Qin?" he asked in disbelief.
"Yes!"
"After much thought, I realized my past loyalty to Han was misplaced. My nephew, the so-called King of Han, has already surrendered. If even the king can bow to Qin, why shouldn't I, a mere servant?"
Hearing this, Li Si's astonishment deepened.
This tone, this phrasing there was no doubt it was Zhao Feng's words.
Back when Zhao Feng and Han Fei were together for those few days, Zhao Feng would counter Han Fei every day with all kinds of statements, leaving even someone as self-righteous and loyal as Han Fei at a loss for words.
And now, Han Fei was using those very words to deal with Li Si.
Sure enough.
Upon hearing Han Fei's words, Li Si seemed momentarily speechless.
The capital of a kingdom had already fallen. What grounds did you, a mere minister, have to contend over?
"It seems my visit today was unnecessary," Li Si finally said, smiling faintly. "As long as Brother Han has thought things through, that's good."
"In the future, the State of Qin will have another pillar of talent." Li Si spoke with a pleased expression as if he were genuinely happy for Han Fei. But inwardly, his mind was filled with curses.
Han Fei's transformation was entirely unexpected.
Initially, Li Si had planned for Han Fei to drink the poison willingly, allowing him to report to the Qin King that Han Fei had chosen to end his life rather than surrender. The Qin King would have had no reason to object, given Li Si's position as a key minister. This was a strategy Li Si was entirely confident in.
But now, Han Fei's sudden change of heart left Li Si helpless.
"Should I force him to drink the poison?"
A flicker of cold intent flashed through Li Si's eyes.
At this stage, if Han Fei truly aligned himself with Wang Wan or the Crown Prince Fusu, it would spell disaster. Even if he didn't, sharing the same court with Han Fei in the future would still deeply unsettle Li Si.
Jealousy, perhaps, was the original sin.
But at this moment, Han Fei's next words left Li Si thoroughly cornered.
"Just a few days ago, a Qin minister visited me in prison. He claimed to be a follower of the Crown Prince, and his name was Wang Wen."
"Does Brother Li happen to know him?"
"I've already expressed my willingness to surrender to him. I imagine he'll report my intentions to the Qin King soon enough," Han Fei said with a smile.
The mention of Wang Wen's name caused Li Si's expression to change subtly. Forcing a smile, he replied, "Wang Wen, the eldest son of Prime Minister Wang Wan. Who would've thought he'd come to see you?"
"Ah, I didn't realize he had such a background. I must have underestimated him," Han Fei said with a faint smile.
"Brother Han," Li Si continued with a solemn expression, "since I'm still serving in the court and you're sincere in your loyalty to His Majesty, I'll personally speak on your behalf. But be cautious in your dealings with Wang Wen. His father, Wang Wan, is a leading figure among the Qin aristocracy and has always regarded outsiders with hostility."
"Now that you've made up your mind, I'll take my leave and inform His Majesty of your intentions."
"This bottle of wine shall remain untouched."
"Farewell."
With that, Li Si picked up the poisoned wine and slowly walked toward the prison's exit.
"I'll leave it to you then, Brother Li," Han Fei said, his face showing gratitude as he watched Li Si leave.
Once Li Si was out of sight, the feigned cordiality on Han Fei's face instantly vanished.
At that moment, Han Fei retrieved a piece of cloth from his pocket, a keepsake Zhao Feng had left him.
"Be wary of Li Si."
"Indeed, I must be wary of Li Si."
"He came intending to kill me, even bringing poison with him."
"If not for Zhao Feng's warning, I wouldn't have been on guard against him at all."
"Moreover, when I declared my intention to surrender to Qin, I caught a glimpse of murderous intent in his eyes. He truly wants me dead."
"Once-close friends have now become enemies."
"Power, it seems, changes people so profoundly," Han Fei thought with a tinge of melancholy.
Although Li Si concealed his emotions well, that fleeting panic was undeniable, as was the flash of murderous intent when he heard Han Fei's declaration of loyalty. Han Fei had seen it.
Otherwise, he wouldn't have brought up Wang Wen's involvement.
Mentioning it was purely to make Li Si hesitate, and it had worked.
Outside the prison.
As Li Si emerged, Yao Jia immediately approached him. "Lord Chancellor, how did it go?"
Looking at Yao Jia, Li Si felt both bitter and resigned. "Han Fei has agreed to surrender to Qin and pledge his loyalty to His Majesty."
"What?" Yao Jia's expression changed. Lowering his voice, he added, "You're in charge of the prison, and I oversee its operations. Why not simply...?"
He gestured a throat-slitting motion, his meaning unmistakable.
"Wang Wen has already met Han Fei, and Han Fei has expressed his willingness to surrender. At this point, that aligns perfectly with His Majesty's wishes."
"If Han Fei were to die now after my visit, what would His Majesty think?"
"Wang Wan would seize the opportunity to undermine me," Li Si sighed.
"But I don't recall seeing Wang Wen enter the prison," Yao Jia said, confused.
"Hmph."
"Do you think someone like Wang Wan couldn't arrange for his son to enter the prison unnoticed?" Li Si sneered, showing no doubt about Han Fei's words.
"So what do we do now? Just let Han Fei become a potential enemy?" Yao Jia asked, unwilling to accept the situation.
"Han Fei and I were once classmates. We aren't enemies, nor should we dwell on the past. Today, I arranged an opportunity for you in court a mission to earn merit. Complete it well, and His Majesty will reward you generously," Li Si replied.
Hearing this, Yao Jia's eyes lit up. "Thank you, my lord!"
...
Shaqiu Commandery, Sha Village.
At the village entrance, hundreds of commandery soldiers escorted over a dozen carriages. The lead carriage carried an official.
Hearing the commotion, villagers outside the village quickly ran to inform the village head, Wu Lizheng.
"Village Head!"
"Officials are here!"
"There are so many of them, even more than when they came to distribute the year's salary. Maybe the Commandery Governor himself is here!"
A villager shouted excitedly.
Hearing this, Wu Lizheng hurried to the village entrance. Seeing the grand procession, he was stunned.
There were even more people than during the last salary distribution not just soldiers but also many servants, along with over a dozen carriages. The scene was grand.
At this moment, the captain of the soldiers, Chen Fen, dismounted and approached Wu Lizheng.
"Village Head, the Commandery Governor has arrived," Chen Fen said with a smile.
Wu Lizheng's expression grew serious.
For a small village like theirs, the highest-ranking official they'd ever seen was a deputy county official, let alone the Commandery Governor, who held authority over the entire region.
"Is he here to deliver Zhao Feng's stipend?" Wu Lizheng asked hurriedly.
"Exactly," Chen Fen replied with a smile. "General Zhao is a hero of the Qin state who has rendered extraordinary service. It's only fitting for the Commandery Governor to visit personally. Not only that, but all five county magistrates under the Commandery have come as well, bearing generous gifts for General Zhao."
"I'll go inform Zhao Feng's mother and sister to greet them," Wu Lizheng said quickly.
"No need for that," Chen Fen said, stopping him. "The Commandery Governor has specifically instructed that General Zhao's family not be troubled. This visit is to pay respects, not to impose. The Governor will personally visit their home to deliver the King's decree and rewards."
"The King's decree?" Wu Lizheng was taken aback.
"General Zhao's great contributions have earned him a royal reward, which will be delivered alongside his stipend," Chen Fen explained.
"Very well."
"I'll make arrangements immediately," Wu Lizheng nodded, instructing a villager to inform the Zhao family.
Meanwhile, the Commandery Governor's carriage arrived at the village entrance. A large contingent of soldiers took up positions to protect the Governor.
Inside the village, Zhao Feng's mother and sister were busy grinding medicinal herbs. Despite yesterday's events, the greatest comfort they'd received was the news that Zhao Feng was still alive.
At this moment:
"Zhao family!"
"Get ready! The Village Head asked me to tell you the Commandery Governor is here, along with many high-ranking officials!"
A villager came running, shouting excitedly.
"The Commandery Governor came?" Zhao Ying asked in surprise.
Yesterday, they thought Chen Fen was joking, but it turned out to be true.
"He's here."
"There are so many carriages and people outside. The scene is grand," the villager said with a smile.
"Mother," Zhao Ying turned her gaze toward her mother.
"It's nothing, just here to deliver your brother's stipend," Madam Zhao said calmly, showing no surprise at all.
"Mother, how can you be so calm?" Zhao Ying exclaimed. "The perfect! He's such a high-ranking official, the highest in Shaqiu County! Ordinary folks like us would never have the chance to see someone like that!"
Looking at her mother's composed demeanor, Zhao Ying was shocked. It was as if her mother had met people of even higher rank before, showing not a trace of fear or haste.
"Ying'er, what's there to be afraid of?" Madam Zhao said with a slight smile. "You're overthinking this. The prefect is just a person, not as intimidating as you imagine."
"Mother, are you secretly from some prestigious family?" Zhao Ying asked with a playful pout, hugging her mother's arm. "You're the only one in the entire village who can read and write, and you're so knowledgeable, not to mention skilled in medicine."
Zhao Ying had long been curious about this but had never had the chance to ask. Ever since she was a child, she realized during her time playing with other children in the village that no one else's family, aside from theirs, could read or write.
Literacy was a privilege of the noble class, and commoners rarely had the chance to learn.
Madam Zhao remained composed, smiling faintly. "Your mother is no noblewoman. Your grandfather was once a traveling doctor. He roamed far and wide, saw many things, and naturally passed on a lot of knowledge to me."
"What about Grandfather then? Where is Mother's family?" Zhao Ying pressed further. "You've never talked about them."
At this, a sorrowful expression flickered across Madam Zhao's face. It was evident that her mood had darkened.
Seeing her mother's reaction, Zhao Ying wanted to ask more but decided against it, knowing it wasn't the right time.
At that moment, the sound of footsteps echoed from outside the courtyard.
Dozens of county soldiers marched in two neat rows to the entrance, each armed with blades but without armor, as standard infantry wouldn't be equipped with such gear.
"Zhao family," the village head, Wu Lizheng, hurried over and opened the gate. "The perfect is here."
Madam Zhao and Zhao Ying walked forward unhurriedly.
At the gate stood a middle-aged man in official robes. He smiled warmly as he approached and, upon seeing Madam Zhao and Zhao Ying, spoke with a polite tone. "You must be the mother of General Zhao. I am Yan Bing, prefect of Shaqiu County."
Madam Zhao stepped forward gracefully, returning the greeting with a gentle bow. "It is an honor for the prefect to visit in person."
Seeing Madam Zhao's composed demeanor and lack of fear, Yan Bing was momentarily surprised.
"This Zhao Feng's mother isn't ordinary," Yan Bing thought. "Our investigation suggested she was just a common village woman, but her poise and calmness say otherwise. No wonder she raised someone like General Zhao, the youngest general in Qin. She's exceptional."
Regaining his composure, Yan Bing smiled. "Madam Zhao, you flatter me. Visiting your family is my honor. This is the home of General Zhao, a man who has achieved great deeds for our country."
"His reputation precedes him. His accomplishments are well-known, and he is highly regarded by the king. His name echoes through the army, and his future is boundless."
Yan Bing's words were filled with genuine respect.
As the prefect, Yan Bing understood that Zhao Feng's position as vice general was just the beginning. The king's decision to publicly announce Zhao Feng's accomplishments signified his intention to cultivate him as a rising military star.
In the future, Zhao Feng could very well rise to the position of Supreme General of Qin.
Such public recognition had previously been reserved for figures like Bai Qi, the legendary Wu'an Jun, who eventually became the commander-in-chief of Qin's army.
"The prefect is too kind," Madam Zhao replied with a composed smile. "It is my son's honor to serve the country and achieve such merits."
"Madam Zhao, your righteousness is admirable," Yan Bing said with a smile. "Let us proceed. Bring General Zhao's stipend forward."
At his command, several soldiers stepped forward, carrying three wooden chests into the courtyard.
"Madam Zhao," Yan Bing continued, "this is General Zhao's annual stipend, including both his rank and official position, totaling 800 shi of grain."
"Thank you, Prefect Yan, for delivering it in person," Madam Zhao said with a bow of gratitude.
She readily accepted the stipend it was, after all, earned through her son's blood and sweat on the battlefield.
"In addition to the stipend," Yan Bing added, "General Zhao has been granted a thousand mu of farmland as part of his nobility title. Bring forth the land deeds."
Several more soldiers came forward with additional chests.
Yan Bing opened one to reveal it filled with bamboo slips.
"Madam Zhao," Yan Bing explained, "these deeds correspond to a thousand mu of fertile land, with 300 mu located near your village and the remaining 700 mu distributed across four neighboring villages.
"These deeds are registered in triplicate: one for General Zhao, one with the county records, and one with the capital archives. According to Qin law, this land is inalienable it cannot be sold but can be leased."
Yan Bing's tone was stern, offering a kind reminder.
"I understand," Madam Zhao nodded.
"In addition to General Zhao's stipend and land," Yan Bing said, "I am here on the king's orders to deliver an imperial edict!"
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