"Could there truly be some underlying justification? Perhaps things are not as the Bai family claims," Wang Wan couldn't help but wonder as he observed the scene.
His doubts arose as he noticed Zhao Feng standing confidently in the great hall, completely unfazed by Bai Wu's accusations. It was clear Zhao Feng had come prepared.
When Zhao Gao presented the bamboo slip to Emperor Ying Zheng, the emperor immediately took it and unrolled it.
Upon reading its contents, Ying Zheng's expression darkened.
"Outrageous!"
With a cold shout, Ying Zheng hurled the bamboo slip directly at Bai Wu, striking him forcefully. Bai Wu, however, did not dare to move.
"Calm your anger, Your Majesty," Bai Wu hurriedly pleaded, bowing low.
"You dare accuse Zhao Feng?" Ying Zheng asked, his gaze icy as it bore into Bai Wu.
"Your Majesty, I... I..."
Faced with the emperor's fury, Bai Wu was at a complete loss for words.
"Read this bamboo slip and see what it contains," Ying Zheng commanded coldly.
Bai Wu, trembling, immediately picked up the bamboo slip. As he read its contents, his face turned pale.
"Your Majesty, please quell your anger. I did not know this matter. The accusations I brought from Linguan County alleged that General Zhao had abused his authority, but I had no idea they dared to act so outrageously."
"Your Majesty, I was wrong... I was wrong..." Bai Wu stammered, his voice trembling with fear.
"Indeed, he came prepared," Wang Wan thought to himself. Observing the meticulous and unyielding demeanor of Zhao Feng, he realized that Zhao Feng was far more formidable than he had imagined.
Ying Zheng's expression grew even more severe. "Since the beginning of my reign, I have been adamant about rooting out the corruption of official stipends, yet even with my strict oversight, there are still those who dare to embezzle stipends."
"At Linguan County alone, stipends for a thousand soldiers and logistics personnel have been siphoned off by one-tenth. One of Zhao Feng's subordinate commanders had their entire stipend embezzled!"
"Such egregious actions and blatant disregard for the law!"
"And you, you dared to falsely accuse Zhao Feng?"
Ying Zheng's voice was cold and filled with anger.
Bai Wu's entire body trembled, and his face turned ashen. "Your Majesty, I was unaware of the situation. I have made a grave error..."
"Your Majesty," Zhao Feng interjected, stepping forward, "the reason I acted in Linguan County was not without cause. One of my subordinate commanders, during his time in his hometown, was oppressed by the Bai family. His sister was violated, and when he sought justice, he was ignored and further persecuted.
"The issue of the stipends was later revealed when the county magistrate confessed to the corruption. I have already executed the deputy magistrate of Linguan County and imprisoned his entire family."
"As for the Bai family, I have dealt with the violators according to Qin law. Those guilty of heinous crimes have received the appropriate punishments, including castration and imprisonment."
"All those involved in the embezzlement of stipends have been imprisoned and await judgment," Zhao Feng declared loudly.
"Since they seek death, I will oblige them," Ying Zheng said coldly.
"Minister of Justice!" he shouted.
"At your command!" Li Si stepped forward immediately.
"Those who embezzle stipends shall face the extermination of their entire clan. Personally oversee this matter and make it known to all of Qin. Let it serve as a warning: anyone who dares touch the stipends of Qin's soldiers shall be annihilated," Ying Zheng ordered sternly.
"Your servant obeys," Li Si replied, bowing deeply.
"As for you..."
Ying Zheng's gaze returned to Bai Wu. "Filing false accusations, slandering a loyal subject, warrants severe punishment."
"Today, I strip you of your rank as Minister of State, demote you by one rank, and dock your salary for a year," Ying Zheng declared.
Hearing this, Bai Wu's face turned ghostly pale.
Zhao Feng glanced at Bai Wu from the corner of his eye and sneered internally. "You brought this upon yourself. It didn't have to escalate to this, but you just had to stir up trouble. Now you've only made things worse for yourself."
"Minister Bai," Zhao Feng addressed him directly, his tone sharp. "I recall that I imprisoned all members of the Bai family in Linguan County. Who was it that managed to escape and deliver this false report to you? Could there be fugitives still at large?"
With a piercing gaze, Zhao Feng stared down Bai Wu. His demeanor was utterly unforgiving, and his words left no room for retreat.
Bai Wu clenched his teeth in resentment, but under Ying Zheng's watchful eyes, he dared not let his emotions show.
"There are indeed a few who escaped. I will provide their locations to the Minister of Justice for further action," Bai Wu replied weakly.
"Such selflessness, Minister Bai. Truly admirable of you to turn in your kin for justice," Zhao Feng said mockingly with a faint smile.
"This Zhao Feng, young as he is, is so calculating, so ruthless," Wang Wan thought to himself, exchanging a glance with Kui Zhuang. "He is not to be underestimated."
"This man is no mere general. Though he has yet to formally join the court, he is far from the brutish soldier people believe him to be. He is using this incident with Bai Wu to send a message to the entire court."
...
After Bai Wu's disgrace and Zhao Feng's swift, decisive actions, everyone in the court began to see Zhao Feng in a new light.
"This boy certainly doesn't let grudges simmer," Ying Zheng mused with a slight smile as he watched the scene unfold.
It was clear to him that Zhao Feng had deliberately humiliated Bai Wu, and Ying Zheng found himself both amused and impressed.
Such a vengeful nature was refreshing and effective in court politics.
"Lingguan County borders Hangu Pass," Ying Zheng remarked, his tone growing serious again. "It is a key military stronghold of our nation, yet even here, there are those who dare embezzle stipends."
"If such things can happen in a critical region like Lingguan, I shudder to think what might occur in more remote areas."
"From this day forward, the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Finance shall jointly oversee inspections. Investigate and prosecute all acts of embezzlement. Any offenders, regardless of rank or status, shall face immediate execution."
"Those who flout the law, collude with others, or oppress the people shall be dealt with severely," Ying Zheng commanded as he looked down at his court with cold authority.
The stipends of a million soldiers were the backbone of Qin's strength, the lifeblood of the empire. Ying Zheng would not allow corrupt officials to weaken his kingdom.
"Understood," Wei Liao and Li Si responded in unison, bowing low.
But among the ministers present, many began to feel a creeping sense of dread.
Since time immemorial, there has never been a land free of corruption. No government has been without its share of unscrupulous officials.
Now, with Ying Zheng's fury, a thorough purge was inevitable. Those with guilty consciences were already beginning to tremble.
"Enough of this," Ying Zheng said, waving his hand, eager to move past the unpleasant matter.
His gaze softened as he turned to Zhao Feng.
"Zhao Feng," he began warmly, "you have rendered great service to Qin.
"You have broken Wu'an, captured Handan, slain Lian Po, killed Pang Nuan, and captured the King of Zhao.
"Your achievements are unparalleled, and you are deserving of great reward," Ying Zheng declared, his voice ringing with pride.
Reaching for the decree he had prepared in advance, Ying Zheng gestured for Zhao Gao to step forward.
Zhao Gao lifted the decree high and began to read aloud:
"The King of Qin decrees!"
"The Fourth Main General of Lantian, Zhao Feng, has achieved great merit in the conquest of Zhao. As a model warrior of our Great Qin, he defended Weicheng, defeated Wei Wuji, and ensured that our lands remained intact. He led the attack on Zhao, slew Lian Po, killed Pang Nuan, and captured the King of Zhao. His achievements are unparalleled and indispensable!"
"According to the Great Qin's system of military merit, it is only fitting to reward him generously."
"Today, Zhao Feng is promoted to the rank of Protector-General and granted the title of Grand General. His noble rank is elevated by two levels."
"A mansion in Xianyang is bestowed upon him, along with one hundred servants, a thousand gold pieces, one hundred pieces of fine jade, one thousand bolts of premium silk, a fine warhorse, and a Grand General's robe."
"His promotion to Grand General shall be proclaimed to all under heaven."
...
Zhao Gao's voice echoed throughout the court.
With this decree, the announcement was made: Great Qin had gained another Grand General. Moreover, Zhao Feng was now the youngest Grand General in Qin's history, as well as the youngest holder of the fourteenth noble rank.
"The dynamics of Great Qin's court have shifted."
"A fourth Grand General, now wielding command over an entire army camp."
"And he holds greater potential than the other three Grand Generals."
"In the future, Zhao Feng might even reach the heights once achieved by Bai Qi!"
Though the promotion to Protector-General had already been discussed earlier, awaiting only Zhao Feng's return for the official decree, hearing it formally declared still shocked those present.
Zhao Feng, not yet twenty years old, had become the youngest Grand General in all the land!
"Your subject humbly thanks Your Majesty for this great kindness."
Without hesitation, Zhao Feng bowed deeply to Ying Zheng, a mix of joy and gratitude in his heart.
Though he had anticipated such a development, it felt different now that it was officially conferred upon him.
A Grand General of Great Qin!
And now, he was one of them!
In just four years of service, Zhao Feng had risen from an ordinary soldier to become one of the most powerful figures in Qin, indisputably a member of the elite.
As Protector-General and Grand General, he was granted the right to form a personal guard of one thousand soldiers, who would serve as his private army.
In all of Qin, only the three other Grand Generals, such as Wang Jian, had been granted such privileges.
Not even the Chancellor, the highest-ranking civil official, nor Crown Prince Fusu, who participated in court politics, had such rights.
This was the authority bestowed by the royal court to ensure the safety of commanding generals during this era of heavy militarization. In the current age, when Qin was striving for unification, military leaders held more importance than civil officials.
"Ministers," Ying Zheng spoke with a faint smile.
"Do you not wish to congratulate Lord Zhao?"
When the King of Qin spoke, who in the court dared to disobey?
Regardless of whether their congratulations were heartfelt or superficial, all the civil and military officials in the court offered their felicitations to Zhao Feng:
"Congratulations to Grand General Zhao!"
Of course, none were more sincere than Wang Jian.
"My son-in-law is now a Grand General like me."
"What an honor for the family!"
"Yaner truly has a good eye," Wang Jian thought, his heart brimming with joy.
"Thank you, esteemed ministers," Zhao Feng said with a smile, cupping his hands in salute.
"Grand General, please accept the decree."
Zhao Gao approached Zhao Feng, holding the royal edict with utmost humility.
Zhao Feng accepted the edict with a slight nod.
Though he harbored some disdain for this historically infamous eunuch, Zhao Gao was currently nothing more than a lowly servant.
As Qin Shi Huang's close attendant, Zhao Gao undoubtedly had a deep understanding of the king's intentions. Zhao Feng saw no reason to offend him.
"Lord Wang," Ying Zheng called out again.
"Your subject is present," Wang Jian immediately stepped forward.
"During your expedition, I made you a promise," Ying Zheng said with a smile.
"That upon your victorious return, I would arrange for your daughter to marry Lord Zhao."
"Now, the time has come to fulfill that promise."
With a wave of his hand, Zhao Gao stepped forward again with another royal decree.
"The decree of the King of Qin."
"Wang Jian's daughter, Wang Yan, virtuous and kind, and the valiant General Zhao Feng, have found love on the battlefield and share a mutual affection."
"Today, I decree that the daughter of the Wang family shall marry Zhao Feng as his wife."
"Let the wedding date be chosen by the families." Zhao Gao announced loudly.
"Your subject humbly thanks Your Majesty on behalf of my daughter," Wang Jian said with a beaming smile.
For Wang Jian, today was a day of unparalleled joy.
His prospective son-in-law had been promoted to Protector-General.
His daughter had received a royal decree for marriage.
A double blessing.
No, perhaps a triple blessing.
"There is one more matter," Ying Zheng continued.
"The wedding date for Liyang and Wang Ben has also been set."
"It will take place in the middle of this month."
"Grand General, you should make the necessary preparations," Ying Zheng said with a smile.
"Thank you for Your Majesty's grace."
"Everything my family has is thanks to Your Majesty's boundless favor. Your subject will repay this kindness even at the cost of his life," Wang Jian said, overwhelmed with gratitude.
Throughout the court, none could rival the glory of the Wang family.
Even if Zhao Feng had not appeared, the Wang family would still have drawn attention.
Originally, Wang Jian's daughter was sought after by Wang Wan and others who wished to arrange a marriage between her and Crown Prince Fusu, aiming to gain the Wang family's support.
Had Wang Jian agreed, his family would have truly become royalty.
However, Wang Jian had no intention of consenting. Even without Zhao Feng's appearance, he would not have agreed. He deeply understood the dangers of royal politics and the perils of factional strife.
One wrong move and his family could face ruin.
Now, this was the best possible outcome.
He was a Grand General, and his son-in-law was also a Grand General.
As long as the Wang family avoided treason, they would enjoy stability for at least two generations.
"Your Majesty,"
"Crown Prince Fusu's wedding is set for two days before Wang Ben's,"
"Our clan requires further preparations," said Ying Xi, a high-ranking court official and Ying Zheng's uncle.
"This matter shall be handled by the Director of Clan Affairs," Ying Zheng said calmly.
Ying Xi immediately complied, "Your subject accepts the decree."
"However, I have one question," Ying Xi added.
"Speak," Ying Zheng replied, his tone cold.
Ying Zheng held little affection for this uncle.
"What level of ceremony should be used for the Crown Prince's wedding?" Ying Xi asked respectfully, his eyes gleaming with hope.
Wang Wan and Kui Zhuang exchanged excited glances, awaiting the answer.
As a royal prince, the Crown Prince's wedding could vary in ceremony.
If conducted at the level befitting a crown prince, it would carry significant implications. Ying Xi's question was an attempt to probe Ying Zheng's thoughts.
After a moment's thought, Ying Zheng responded indifferently, "It shall be conducted according to the standard for a royal prince."
Upon hearing this, Ying Xi and Wang Wan's hopes were dashed.
"Understood, Your Majesty," Ying Xi replied, bowing respectfully.
"A royal wedding,"
"To Li Si's daughter,"
Meanwhile, Fusu felt utterly helpless, his heart filled with silent resignation.
If he could, he wouldn't want to marry Li Si's daughter at all.
But after delaying again and again, due to the prolonged war, the day had finally come.
"Ting Wei."
"This marriage will require your effort as well," Ying Zheng said with a slight smile as he looked at Li Si.
"I understand," Li Si replied, nodding in agreement despite his reluctance.
"Very well."
"Does anyone else have matters to report?" Ying Zheng looked down at the court and asked.
Today was not originally a day for court discussions. However, since Zhao Feng returned today, Ying Zheng issued an edict to gather the officials to welcome him back.
"We have no matters to report," the officials responded in unison.
"In that case, the court is dismissed."
"Zhao Feng, stay behind and accompany me to the Shangtai Palace," Ying Zheng said with a smile, then rose and walked toward the rear hall.
"We respectfully bid farewell to Your Majesty," the officials said as they bowed.
Once Ying Zheng's figure disappeared, the officials began dispersing.
"When you enter Shangtai Palace, you must be careful with your words," Wang Jian approached Zhao Feng with a serious expression. "You are now greatly favored by His Majesty, but you must remember not to overstep your bounds. The ruler is the ruler, and the subject is the subject."
"Are you really that worried about me?" Zhao Feng replied helplessly.
"I can't help it," Wang Jian said, his tone teasing. "I still remember what you said before."
At the mention of his previous words, Zhao Feng smiled awkwardly.
Stealing a bride?
Stealing a bride in Xianyang?
Those were all things he had threatened Wang Jian with. Zhao Feng had blatantly warned him that if he dared to marry Wang Yan to Fusu, he would cause a massive uproar. Zhao Feng even displayed some of his strength during that incident, successfully intimidating Wang Jian.
"Alright, don't bring it up anymore," Zhao Feng said with a smile. "Now that Yan'er is about to become my wife, the past is irrelevant. You can relax now."
"Alright then, after your audience with His Majesty, make sure to return home quickly," Wang Jian said with a hearty laugh. "I suppose you haven't met your children yet, have you?"
"Not yet, but I'm eager to," Zhao Feng replied, his expression softening.
"They're well-behaved, and I like them very much," Wang Jian said with a proud smile.
He had already met his two grandchildren ahead of time.
"You're making me want to skip the audience and head straight home," Zhao Feng said, a hint of eagerness in his voice.
"A royal summons cannot be ignored," Wang Jian said with a chuckle. "You'd better go now. I'll go spend time with my grandchildren."
Wang Jian turned and walked away with a satisfied smile, leaving Zhao Feng both amused and exasperated.
"This father-in-law is getting back at me because I threatened him before," Zhao Feng muttered, shaking his head with a smile as he watched Wang Jian leave.
At that moment, another figure approached.
"Congratulations, General Zhao," Wei Liao greeted with a respectful bow.
"You must be the esteemed Wei Liao, a disciple of the Guigu School," Zhao Feng replied with a smile.
"I'm surprised the General knows of me," Wei Liao said, slightly taken aback.
"How could I not know the name of the Shaofu?" Zhao Feng said with a chuckle.
"Congratulations, General Zhao," another voice interjected.
Li Si walked over and greeted Zhao Feng warmly.
"Ting Wei, you're too kind," Zhao Feng replied politely.
"I have long heard of the renowned General Zhao Feng. Meeting you today, your reputation is truly well-deserved. You are a great blessing to our Qin," Li Si praised.
"Indeed," another voice chimed in.
It was Wang Wan and Kuai Zhuang approaching.
"With General Zhao Feng here, our younger generation in Qin has a bright future," they said.
"Greetings to the two chancellors," Zhao Feng said, returning their greetings despite his inner displeasure.
Soon, more officials gathered around to congratulate Zhao Feng, showering him with praises and invitations to visit their residences.
This was the nature of power when one was favored, everyone seemed friendly. But Zhao Feng knew that if he were to fall from grace, those same people would turn away without hesitation.
After enduring the wave of hollow pleasantries, Zhao Gao arrived.
"Esteemed officials," Zhao Gao said humbly, "His Majesty has summoned General Zhao Feng. If there is anything else, please discuss it another day."
"Ah, I almost forgot," one official said with a laugh. "General Zhao, His Majesty awaits. We won't delay you further."
One by one, the officials dispersed, leaving Zhao Feng behind.
"General, please follow me," Zhao Gao said, bowing deeply.
Without another word, Zhao Gao led the way.
"Zhao Gao…"
"Who could have predicted his future?" Zhao Feng thought as he observed the infamous historical figure walking ahead.
Meanwhile, outside the palace walls, Fusu stood in frustration.
"Chancellors," Fusu addressed Wang Wan and Kuai Zhuang as they approached, "Is this truly unavoidable?"
The two chancellors exchanged glances, understanding the weight of Fusu's question.
"Your Highness," Wang Wan said with a sigh, "a royal decree cannot be defied. The marriage has been delayed for two years already. It cannot be postponed any further."
Hearing this, Fusu let out a heavy sigh, shook his head in resignation, and walked away in disappointment.
"His Highness has endured to his limit," Kuai Zhuang said quietly.
"It matters little," Wang Wan replied confidently. "Even if Li Si's daughter marries His Highness, it will not change the grand scheme of things. Their philosophies clash fundamentally. One day, everything Li Si stands for will be overturned when His Highness ascends the throne."
Kuai Zhuang glanced around cautiously before lowering his voice. "Be careful with your words."
"What does it matter?" Wang Wan said dismissively. "In the end, His Highness is unmatched. Who else among the princes could rival him?"
"The King is still in his prime," Kuai Zhuang reminded him. "He has no intention of naming an heir yet. Once the unification of the realm is complete, who else could he choose but His Highness?"
"Indeed," Wang Wan said with conviction. "Rest assured. His Highness is destined for greatness."
Outside the Shangtai Palace, Zhao Gao stopped and turned to Zhao Feng.
"Please wait here, General," Zhao Gao said respectfully before entering the palace.
"Your Majesty," Zhao Gao said as he knelt before Ying Zheng, "General Zhao Feng has arrived."
"Prepare the hot springs," Ying Zheng ordered. "I shall bathe with the General later."
Zhao Gao was momentarily stunned but quickly bowed his head. "Understood, Your Majesty."
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