Amidst the loud cheers of the court, the joy on Ying Zheng's face grew even brighter.
"Read out this war report," he said.
"Then all of you will understand why I am so elated." With a wide smile, Ying Zheng handed the war report to Zhao Gao.
Zhao Gao respectfully received it, then turned to face the grand hall and slowly unfolded the report.
The ministers fixed their eyes on him, their anticipation palpable.
"Your Majesty," Zhao Gao began to read aloud.
"This is a report from General Wang Jian to His Majesty.
After our Qin general, Zhao Feng, defeated Wei Wuju at Wei City, he did not rest. Capitalizing on the twenty thousand troops' worth of food and supplies captured in Wei City's fall, Zhao Feng made a strategic decision to advance on Wei territory and secure the route between Yingchuan and Zhao."
"On the first day, he pursued the remnants of Wei Wuju's army and killed Wei General Gongsun Xi."
"On the third day, he reached Xing City, killed three thousand enemies, and successfully captured the city."
"On the fifth day, he arrived at Shu City, killed two thousand enemies, and successfully captured it as well."
"On the seventh day, he divided his forces into five groups..."
Zhao Gao's voice resonated throughout the hall as he continued to read the report, detailing Zhao Feng's methodical advance into Wei territory, his victories, and his conquests.
"On the thirty-ninth day, Zhao Feng led his sixty thousand soldiers to the outskirts of Lin City. At this time, Wei Wuju had assembled fifty thousand elite troops to defend the city, bringing the total defensive force to nearly eighty thousand."
"On the forty-first day, after probing the enemy's defenses, Zhao Feng launched a full-scale assault on Lin City. Hearing of Zhao Feng's reputation, the Wei troops were demoralized, and the city fell in a single day, securing the route between Yingchuan and Zhao."
"On the forty-fifth day, Zhao Feng led fifty thousand soldiers into Zhao territory and encountered the army of Lian Po. After engaging in battle, Zhao Feng annihilated twenty thousand of Lian Po's troops and personally killed Lian Po."
"On the forty-sixth day, Zhao Feng merged his forces with the Second Main Battle Camp from Lantian..."
As Zhao Gao read, the ministers listened intently, absorbing every detail of Zhao Feng's remarkable achievements during this campaign.
In just forty-six days, Zhao Feng had captured numerous cities in Wei, seized over a thousand miles of territory, and accomplished all this with a mere sixty thousand troops. It was an astonishing feat, almost unbelievable if not for the war report.
"In forty-six days, he conquered dozens of Wei cities, seized a thousand miles of land, and did it all with just sixty thousand soldiers. How is this even possible?"
"Could it be that Zhao Feng is truly a born general?"
"Previously, Zhao Feng was known for his bravery, which earned him the position of deputy general. But since the Battle of Wei City, where he employed a brilliant surprise tactic, he has proven his talent in commanding troops. And now, with this campaign, he has solidified his reputation."
"Securing a thousand miles of territory for Qin and slaying Lian Po these achievements alone make him worthy of promotion to Senior General. In just a few years, Zhao Feng might become the youngest Senior General in Qin history."
"Remarkable! With a general like this, His Majesty's regard for him will only grow."
"Zhao Feng is destined to be a rising star in Qin's court."
"This man is someone we must win over, not offend..."
The war report left the ministers deeply impressed.
"Ministers, did you hear the report?"
Once the reading was complete, Ying Zheng laughed heartily and addressed the court.
"Heaven blesses Great Qin."
"It has granted Your Majesty a valiant and capable general like Zhao Feng," Li Si immediately remarked.
"Heaven blesses Great Qin!" The ministers echoed in unison.
"Hahaha!"
Ying Zheng laughed joyfully, clearly pleased by the affirmation of heaven's favor.
"Indeed," he said.
"Heaven blesses our Great Qin."
"In the past, I lamented the loss of our great General Bai Qi. If he were still here, I would have offered him even greater rewards."
"But now, I have a general who rivals Bai Qi in every way."
"This is truly heaven's blessing." Ying Zheng laughed as he spoke, his words reflecting his high regard for Zhao Feng.
"To compare Zhao Feng to Bai Qi!"
"Zhao Feng's place in His Majesty's heart has reached such a level."
"Perhaps it is time to mend ties with Zhao Feng. Even if it means letting the Meng family suffer some losses, at least we can ensure he doesn't oppose the Crown Prince," Wang Wan thought to himself. Once concerned about preserving the Crown Prince's dignity, Wang Wan now found himself reevaluating his stance in light of Zhao Feng's rising prominence.
The pressure Zhao Feng exerted was simply too great.
Within the military, Wang Wan's influence couldn't reach far enough to suppress Zhao Feng's growing renown, especially given Qin's strict meritocratic system for recognizing military achievements.
In Qin, every merit was recorded by the esteemed official Wei Liao before being reported directly to Ying Zheng.
And Wei Liao was no ordinary man he was a disciple of the Ghost Valley School, renowned for his unparalleled strategic acumen.
If anyone thought they could manipulate the merit system under Wei Liao's watchful eye, they were deluding themselves.
As Ying Zheng's most trusted advisor, Wei Liao's only loyalty was to aiding the King in unifying the land.
"Fools," Korean-born Han Fei, observing Wang Wan and Chunyu Yue, couldn't help but smirk at their changing expressions.
Though not yet among the Nine Ministers, Han Fei had gained a position just below them as an Internal Historian. Unaligned with any court faction, he operated independently a testament to his pride.
Among all the officials, the only one Han Fei truly respected and considered a friend was Zhao Feng.
According to Zhao Feng, Han Fei was a stubborn "hard case" who only responded to tough love. Ironically, this had endeared Han Fei to him.
"Lord Wei," Ying Zheng turned to Wei Liao and asked, "Zhao Feng has once again achieved great merits. How should we reward him?"
"Following the Battle of Wei City, Your Majesty already promoted Zhao Feng to General. Now, having secured a thousand miles of territory and slain Lian Po, Zhao Feng has accomplished two major feats: expanding Qin's borders and defeating a formidable enemy."
"According to our merit system, these merits warrant a two-rank promotion," Wei Liao suggested with a smile.
"What do you all think of Lord Wei's proposal?" Ying Zheng asked the court.
At this moment, even Wang Wan, who had been contemplating reconciling with Zhao Feng, dared not object.
Just as the ministers were about to agree, Chunyu Yue stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, while rewarding General Zhao Feng, we must also address his violation of orders. Zhao Feng acted without authorization, leading troops to attack Wei without royal approval. This is a breach of protocol."
"Your Majesty had decreed an attack on Zhao to honor our alliance with Yan. Zhao Feng's unilateral actions go against his duties as a subject. I urge Your Majesty to deliberate on this matter."
Hearing this, Wang Wan's face darkened, and Wei Zhuang scowled.
"Fool," the two seasoned politicians silently cursed Chunyu Yue.
If Zhao Feng's campaign had failed, his unauthorized actions might indeed warrant punishment. But with such extraordinary accomplishments securing Qin's borders, and defeating Lian Po how could Ying Zheng possibly focus on his disobedience?
Before Wang Wan could step in to salvage the situation, Ying Zheng's expression turned cold, his earlier smile vanishing.
"What did you say?"
"Punish Zhao Feng?"
"Did I hear that wrong, or did you misspeak?" Ying Zheng asked sharply, leaving room for Chunyu Yue to retract his statement.
"Your Majesty,"
"Chunyu Taifu must have misspoken," Wang Wan interjected.
"General Zhao acted within the authority granted to him by Your Majesty. He had full command over the Wei City forces, and his actions do not constitute dereliction of duty."
Chunyu Yue tried to speak again, but Wei Zhuang shot him a warning look and chimed in, "The Prime Minister is correct. Chunyu Taifu's remarks were ill-considered. As a scholar, he lacks an understanding of military matters. We beg Your Majesty's forgiveness."
The two old foxes worked together to smooth things over.
"General Zhao Feng has rendered great service to Qin and deserves a generous reward."
"Father, I am willing to personally deliver your decree and rewards to General Zhao Feng in Zhao territory," Crown Prince Fusu said earnestly.
"This proposal is feasible," the ministers agreed.
"Perhaps this is an opportunity to win over Zhao Feng. Even if that's not possible, at least it will ensure Zhao Feng doesn't become an enemy of the Crown Prince in the future."
"To honor and respect talent this is something the Crown Prince excels at," Wang Wan said with a faint smile, exchanging glances with Kui Zhuang, both secretly pleased.
Although Chunyu Yue, as a teacher, was somewhat foolish obsessed with rigid principles Fu Su, despite his occasional stubbornness, was courteous and compassionate, earning himself a reputation for virtue in court.
Hearing Fu Su's words.
Ying Zheng cast him a glance, his previously stern expression gradually softening into a faint smile.
"Zhao remains unconquered by our Great Qin and is still fraught with danger. Do you dare to go?" Ying Zheng asked, his tone carrying a hint of scrutiny.
"As the son of my father and a prince of Great Qin, your subject fears nothing," Fu Su replied with a resolute expression.
Hearing this.
Ying Zheng couldn't help but study Fu Su more closely as if he were seeing a new side to him.
"Very well," Ying Zheng nodded.
"Draft the decree."
"Zhao Feng has expanded our territory by a thousand miles, made great contributions, and executed Zhao's General Lian Po another great merit."
"For these two accomplishments, elevate his rank by two levels," Ying Zheng proclaimed with authority.
"Long live the wisdom of the king!" The court officials shouted in unison.
"Your Majesty, I also wish to accompany the Crown Prince to Zhao to reward General Zhao Feng," Han Fei stepped forward and requested in a loud voice.
Hearing this.
Ying Zheng looked at Han Fei with some surprise.
Since arriving in Qin, Han Fei has diligently handled government affairs. Matters entrusted to him were always managed smoothly and efficiently. However, Han Fei had a certain pride and integrity, refusing to align himself with any faction. Like Wei Liao, he remained an independent figure in court, almost invisible.
For him to speak up today genuinely surprised Ying Zheng.
"It's rare for Minister Han to request something."
"Granted," Ying Zheng said with a slight smile, waving his hand.
"Your subject thanks the king for his grace," Han Fei immediately bowed.
After rewarding Zhao Feng, Ying Zheng smiled and said, "Fu Su."
"Your subject is here," Fu Su responded immediately.
"Once you reach Zhao, deliver this message to Wang Jian on my behalf."
"Tell him that when it comes to matters of warfare, I shall not interfere. I hope that soon, I will be able to personally set foot in Handan," Ying Zheng declared loudly, his tone carrying a weight of determination toward the conquest of Zhao.
Unlike the campaign against Han.
The conquest of Zhao was Ying Zheng's true aspiration and obsession.
For Ying Zheng or rather, for the former Zhao Zheng Handan!
Handan was a place of humiliation.
It was there that Zhao Zheng endured endless torment and injustice.
If not for his teacher's guidance and his perseverance in enduring humiliation from a young age, he might have died there long ago.
The conquest of Zhao!
Not only would it fulfill Qin's quest for unification, but it would also exact vengeance.
He would annihilate Zhao, turning the place of his former disgrace into his territory. He would crush Zhao Yan underfoot and show him what a true king looked like.
"I will faithfully deliver Father's words to General Wang Jian," Fu Su responded immediately.
"Minister Wei."
"How fares the battle in Dai and Zhao?" Ying Zheng asked.
Reports from the Bluefield Camp arrived continuously, but updates from Dai were scarce.
"Rest assured, Your Majesty."
"General Meng Wu and his son are personally leading the campaign in Dai. Zhao's General Li Mu and his 200,000 border troops have no chance of moving southward."
"I have maintained communication with General Meng Wu. Currently, he is conducting mobile warfare in Dai and has yet to directly confront Li Mu," Wei Liao said with a smile.
"That is good," Ying Zheng nodded. He then turned to the court officials. "Does anyone else have petitions to present?"
"We have no petitions, Your Majesty," the officials responded loudly.
"Then the court is dismissed," Ying Zheng said, rising and leaving the hall.
"Long live the king!" The court officials bowed in unison.
After Ying Zheng departed.
Wang Wan and Kui Zhuang immediately approached Fu Su.
"My lord, let us meet in the residence later," Wang Wan said with a faint smile.
"Very well," Fu Su nodded.
"Minister Han."
At this moment, Li Si intercepted Han Fei's path.
"Minister of Justice, what is the matter?" Han Fei asked calmly.
Li Si glanced at the officials who had not yet dispersed and said gravely, "May I have a word in private?"
Han Fei nodded and walked to the side of the hall, with Li Si following closely behind.
"Minister Han, is your trip to Zhao motivated by personal reasons or public duty?" Li Si asked with a slight smile.
"What difference does it make?" Han Fei replied, glancing at him.
"If possible, for the sake of our shared time as classmates, could you inform Zhao Feng of the scheming against him by Wang Wan and Chunyu Yue?" Li Si asked quietly.
Han Fei glanced at Li Si, then asked, "Why?"
"If Fu Su succeeds in winning over Zhao Feng, or at least mending relations, Zhao Feng might align with him. With a future general supporting him, Fu Su's position in court will grow even stronger," Li Si said with a stern expression.
Han Fei chuckled and looked at him. "Minister of Justice, are you asking me to sow discord between Zhao Feng and the Crown Prince? What good would that do me?"
"Besides, while I haven't spent much time with Zhao Feng, I respect him. Offending the Crown Prince wouldn't benefit Zhao Feng much either."
"You should handle this yourself," Han Fei said, brushing his sleeves and leaving.
Watching Han Fei's retreating figure, Li Si's face flickered with irritation and resignation.
Han Fei was no longer the same man who had been imprisoned upon his arrival in Qin. Now, as Qin's Minister of Internal Affairs, even if Li Si wanted to act against him, it was impossible.
"My lord."
"Your request to reward Zhao Feng in Zhao was the right move today."
"Given Zhao Feng's recent rise, suppressing him is no longer feasible. Moreover, His Majesty's favor toward him is growing. He may very well be made a general in the future."
"It is best not to offend him," Wang Wan said with a smile.
"This trip is also an opportunity to clarify the misunderstanding from before."
"After all, what the tutor did that day went too far," Fu Su nodded and said.
"My lord, as the Crown Prince, how could you apologize to a mere minister?"
"As the Crown Prince and future heir, you cannot admit fault, even if there was one," Chunyu Yue interjected angrily.
Hearing this.
Wang Wan couldn't help but rebuke, "Tutor, can you consult with us before acting in the future?"
"You carelessly offended Zhao Feng back then. Today, in court, you recklessly accused him again. Fortunately, His Majesty decided not to pursue the matter. Otherwise, you would have implicated the Crown Prince."
"You must understand that you are the Crown Prince's tutor. Your actions reflect on him."
"From now on, you must be more careful and not act recklessly," Wang Wan said sternly.
Faced with Wang Wan's reprimand, Chunyu Yue wanted to argue but found himself at a loss for words.
After all, in terms of rank and position, he was no match for Wang Wan.
"The Prime Minister is right."
"Tutor, you must exercise caution in the future."
"You represent the Crown Prince," Kui Zhuang added.
He had grown weary of Chunyu Yue's recklessness.
Under the rebuke of two senior officials, Chunyu Yue, no matter how unwilling, could only keep quiet.
"That said, I'm puzzled by Han Fei's request to accompany us to Zhao," Wang Wan mused aloud.
"I've heard that when Han Fei was transferred to Qin, Zhao Feng escorted him. Could that be the reason?" Fu Su speculated.
"Perhaps."
"As for Han Fei, he is extremely intelligent but has shown no allegiance to Li Si. There seems to be some animosity between them."
"It would be wise to try to win him over," Kui Zhuang suggested.
"I understand," Fu Su nodded.
In the Zhangtai Palace.
"Your Majesty."
"Your prediction was correct."
"Zhao Feng did not disappoint."
"With just a small force of several thousand, he breached Lincheng and advanced into Zhao," Wei Liao said with a smile.
"Though I had expectations, I didn't foresee Zhao Feng conquering a thousand miles of territory and penetrating Zhao in under two months," Ying Zheng said with a hearty laugh.
"As I've said before."
"This man is truly a godsend general," Ying Zheng laughed.
"Your Majesty."
"With dozens of Wei cities now under our control, perhaps it's time to replace the banners in the rear palace," Wei Liao joked.
"Let's go."
Ying Zheng laughed loudly and immediately stood up.
Wei Liao did the same, a smile on his face.
The two of them walked directly to the rear hall.
In one of the boxes, they took out dozens of small Qin flags.
The two of them happily pulled out the flags from various cities in the State of Wei on the map and replaced them with the flags of the Qin Dynasty.
This large sand table map marked all the cities of the various kingdoms in the Central Plains. It was drawn by the generations of Qin people and was highly accurate.
The fun for the ruler and his minister was to watch as the cities on the map gradually became part of Qin, and judging by their familiar behavior, it was clear they had done this many times before.
"How do you view Han Fei?" Ying Zheng asked as he inserted another flag.
"A rare talent," Wei Liao replied. "But although he has submitted to Qin, he has not fully devoted himself. After joining us, he only completed his duties without showing extraordinary abilities."
"Perhaps there are still some grudges in his heart," Wei Liao continued.
"His talent is indeed worthy of great use," Ying Zheng mused. "In the future, I will have people who will truly and wholeheartedly serve me."
"What about the spies you placed under Zhao Feng's guard?" Wei Liao asked.
When it came to such sensitive matters, only Wei Liao could dare to ask.
After all, when he joined Qin, he earned Ying Zheng's trust and even learned of the mysterious Black Ice Platform, a secret organization passed down through Qin's royal line.
"It's strange," Ying Zheng paused in his actions.
Wei Liao stopped as well. "I would like to hear more."
"Zhao Feng had his personal guard commander screen for elite soldiers in the army. The Black Ice Platform had placed several of its agents there for over ten days, but the next day they were all sent back."
"All of them were rejected and did not become Zhao Feng's guards," Ying Zheng said, his voice low, eyes full of thought.
"Could it be that they exposed their identities as Black Ice agents?" Wei Liao asked in surprise.
"Impossible," Ying Zheng waved his hand, his expression serious. "The agents of the Black Ice Platform don't know each other. Even if a few were suspicious and removed, all of them can't be discovered. That's what I don't understand."
Hearing this, Wei Liao also looked puzzled. He knew that the Black Ice Platform was incredibly secretive. Unless agents were wearing the same uniform, they wouldn't recognize each other, even in a crowded setting.
The Black Ice Platform had agents everywhere within the army, the government, and even among common people.
This was the terrifying aspect of the Black Ice Platform.
It had provided countless intelligence to Qin, laying the foundation for Qin's future unification.
"Could Zhao Feng truly see through people's hearts?" Wei Liao smiled.
"See through people's hearts?" Ying Zheng gave a faint smile but shook his head. "Is there such a skill in this world?"
"Perhaps," Wei Liao mused. "But aside from that, I don't understand how Zhao Feng was able to identify the agents."
"It seems this Zhao Feng is quite formidable," Ying Zheng said slowly. "He even managed to identify the most secretive of agents."
"Why not send more agents?" Wei Liao suggested with a smile.
"He already has a full complement of personal guards, it's impossible to place more," Ying Zheng shook his head. "I wonder if he is truly unaware or if he is aware. If he truly can see through people's hearts, Zhao Feng would be terrifying."
"Not an ordinary person," Wei Liao sighed.
"As for this Zhao Feng, I am more and more curious," Ying Zheng said with a smile.
"As a subject of the king, Zhao Feng will undoubtedly be seen in the future."
"Pity that it's Young Master Fu Su going to Zhao to reward Zhao Feng. Otherwise, I would love to visit Zhao myself and see this new sharp military general of Qin," Wei Liao said with a smile.
After all, the two of them had never met Zhao Feng.
An 18-year-old commander who repeatedly achieved victories they were truly curious!
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