"Your Majesty will surely find her."
"If she's not in Zhao, she might be elsewhere."
"When Your Majesty unifies the world, you will undoubtedly find her."
"Even if it means searching every inch of land or finding a needle in a haystack, I will help Your Majesty locate her," Zhao Feng said earnestly, almost as if making a solemn promise.
Hearing Zhao Feng's words, Ying Zheng's face lit up with a smile of approval. "I look forward to the day you find Dong'er for me."
"If you succeed, you'll be my greatest benefactor for life."
Zhao Feng chuckled. "Hold off on calling me your greatest benefactor. Let's save that title for after I find her."
"You brat..." Ying Zheng laughed, cursing him affectionately before continuing to drink.
As Ying Zheng drank alone, Zhao Feng picked up his wine flask and took a swig.
"Who do you think I will choose as my heir?" Ying Zheng asked Zhao Feng with a curious glint in his eye.
"Your Majesty," Zhao Feng replied, smiling, "this is not something a minister should presume to think about. Deciding on an heir is far beyond my concern."
This was a question that could easily get him into trouble, and Zhao Feng wasn't about to fall for it.
Seeing Zhao Feng sidestep the question, Ying Zheng changed his approach. "Then, who among my sons do you think is the most capable?"
"I've only met Prince Fusu. I haven't seen the other princes, so I wouldn't know who's the best," Zhao Feng replied casually. "As for Prince Fusu, he comes across as overly righteous. He talks endlessly about benevolence and virtue but lacks worldly experience.
"If he could temper his excessive righteousness, that might be better. If not, well, it is what it is."
In truth, Zhao Feng didn't think Fusu was suited to be Crown Prince. While Fusu might have outperformed Hu Hai, who was a fool, he could not still secure the empire. Even if Fusu ascended the throne after Ying Zheng's death, the inevitable chaos would still come.
Fusu wasn't Ying Zheng. He might be able to extend the Qin dynasty's reign a little, but without securing stability, the empire would ultimately fall.
"Indeed," Ying Zheng sighed. "Fusu is too rigid. He clings too tightly to his ideals."
"Your Majesty is in your prime. There's no need to rush decisions about the heir. Things may change in time," Zhao Feng said, offering a well-timed consolation.
In reality, Zhao Feng knew the trajectory of history, and he held little optimism for the Qin dynasty's fate. Unless Ying Zheng could live indefinitely, the dynasty's downfall was inevitable.
Sometimes, Zhao Feng even entertained the idea of showing Ying Zheng a glimpse of the future like how Hu Hai would one day kill all of Ying Zheng's children. Would Ying Zheng have Hu Hai executed on the spot? And how would he react to learning that Fusu committed suicide after being deceived by a fake imperial edict?
But such thoughts were just fleeting whims.
"If my wife hadn't left, perhaps her son would already be your age," Ying Zheng said suddenly, his tone tinged with melancholy.
"If she were still in the palace, would Your Majesty have made her queen?" Zhao Feng asked curiously.
Ying Zheng looked at him and responded with firm resolve, "No one but her is worthy of being queen."
"But it was precisely the position of queen that harmed her."
"When I first ascended the throne, I was full of ambition. I thought everything was under my control. But it was all an illusion."
"I wanted to make her queen, but the entire court opposed me. It was because of this that she left me," Ying Zheng said sorrowfully.
"If she had borne you a son, Your Majesty would have surely made him Crown Prince by now," Zhao Feng remarked.
"Of course," Ying Zheng replied without hesitation.
"Now I understand why Your Majesty has not named a queen all these years," Zhao Feng said. Then, with a puzzled look, he asked, "But I'm curious why is Your Majesty telling me all this?"
Hearing this, Ying Zheng smiled and gazed deeply at Zhao Feng. "I don't know why. Perhaps I see in you a reflection of my former self."
"Once, I too was a dutiful son who valued filial piety. Once, I too was fearless in the face of challenges. But everything has changed now."
Zhao Feng shook his head and replied, "Your Majesty is mistaken. I am far from fearless if nothing else, I'm afraid of death."
"If you're afraid of death, why do you always lead the charge in battle?" Ying Zheng asked with a playful smile.
He had seen too much of human nature. People betray their kin for personal gain, abandon their families for power, and sell their children and wives for wealth. Fear of death is normal, but it's rare to find someone genuinely unafraid of it especially those in high positions of power.
So when Zhao Feng claimed he feared death, Ying Zheng couldn't help but laugh. As a soldier, Zhao Feng had charged into battle even as a mere foot soldier, despite the risks of being slain by the enemy or punished by the overseers. And as Zhao Feng rose to the rank of general, where others in his position would never personally risk their lives on the front lines, he still led the charge every time.
Ying Zheng could believe many things about Zhao Feng, but not his claim of fearing death.
"Your Majesty, I truly am afraid of death," Zhao Feng said, half-jokingly, almost in protest.
The truth was, that his courage stemmed from his unique ability to absorb "attributes" from battles, including extending his lifespan. That alone made the danger worth it.
"Now that I've granted you a marriage, when do you plan to hold the wedding? In Xianyang or your hometown?" Ying Zheng asked with a smile.
"My mother doesn't like to travel far, so naturally, it will be held in my hometown," Zhao Feng replied.
"What a pity," Ying Zheng said with some regret. "In that case, I won't be able to attend. Your hometown, Shacheng, is over a thousand li from Xianyang."
"If Your Majesty wishes to attend, I wouldn't dare refuse. I can hold one ceremony in Xianyang and another in my hometown," Zhao Feng said cheerfully.
He had promised Wang Yan that he would give her the grandest wedding possible. Without the King's presence, how could it be called grand?
Hearing this, Ying Zheng smiled slightly. "That's acceptable."
"Then it's settled, Your Majesty," Zhao Feng said, his joy evident. "In two months, Your Majesty will have three weddings to attend!"
"If it weren't for your engagement to Wang Jian's daughter, I'd have considered marrying one of my daughters to you," Ying Zheng said, half-jokingly.
"Your Majesty, please spare me. I don't want to take care of a princess like she's a living ancestor," Zhao Feng replied bluntly.
Hearing Zhao Feng refer to his daughter as an "ancestor," Ying Zheng couldn't help but laugh. "Do you think all my daughters are unreasonable? Are you saying you even disdain my daughters?"
"Your Majesty, I want a wife I can build a life with not someone my mother would have to tiptoe around. So, please save your daughters for the younger, more ambitious men," Zhao Feng said earnestly.
"Others would jump at the chance to be my son-in-law, but you..." Ying Zheng shook his head, feigning exasperation.
"Come, Your Majesty, let's drink. Tonight, let's drink until we're satisfied," Zhao Feng said, changing the subject with a grin as he raised his flask to toast.
"Very well," Ying Zheng said, laughing heartily. "Let's see who gets drunk first tonight."
Amid the steam rising from the hot springs, Ying Zheng and Zhao Feng drank, feasted, and chatted freely.
In this rare moment, Ying Zheng set aside his imperial dignity, and Zhao Feng treated him not as the legendary Qin Shihuang but as a friend, sharing drinks and heartfelt conversation.
Time quietly slipped away at this moment.
Meanwhile, outside the Hot Spring Pavilion, Zhao Gao, along with a group of palace maids and eunuchs, continued to wait in silence.
The laughter coming from within the pavilion left Zhao Gao and the palace servants in stunned disbelief.
Especially Zhao Gao, who had served the king closely for years.
He would never mistake such unrestrained, heartfelt laughter from Ying Zheng it was so rare that it felt almost surreal.
"Grand Chamberlain," a eunuch, bent forward and spoke softly, "The King seems different tonight."
But as soon as the words were spoken, Zhao Gao shot him a chilling glare.
"Do you dare to speak recklessly about the King?" Zhao Gao said coldly.
"Your servant wouldn't dare! Please forgive me, Grand Chamberlain!" The eunuch, terrified, immediately knelt in panic.
To the nobles in the court, Zhao Gao was nothing more than a eunuch. But within the palace walls, he held the power of life and death over all the servants.
"Go inform Lady Hu," Zhao Gao ordered, his tone sharp, "that the King will not be visiting her tonight."
"Yes, sir!" The eunuch scrambled away as if his life depended on it.
Once the eunuch was gone, Zhao Gao turned his gaze toward the Hot Spring Pavilion.
"The King truly seems different tonight," Zhao Gao murmured to himself.
"For the King to treat Zhao Feng with such favor, sharing the hot spring and preparing for a night of drinking and conversation…"
"If Prince Huhai gains Zhao Feng's support, his influence could rival all the courtiers backing Fusu."
"But how can Zhao Feng be won over?" Zhao Gao pondered deeply.
"He already holds power. Could it be beauty he desires?"
As someone who had served the King for so long and understood him well, Zhao Gao knew just how extraordinary the King's favor toward Zhao Feng was today.
At the Eldest Prince's residence:
"Chancellor," a subordinate entered and reported to Wang Wan, "there's news from the palace."
"What is it?" Wang Wan asked immediately.
"The King and Zhao Feng went to the Hot Spring Pavilion together. Not only that, the King ordered several jars of wine and meat to be sent, and the palace was echoing with his laughter."
"It's clear how deeply the King favors Zhao Feng," the subordinate said respectfully.
"I see…" Wang Wan nodded his expression complex. He waved the subordinate away.
"You may leave now."
"Yes, Chancellor." The subordinate retreated swiftly.
"It seems I underestimated the King's favor toward Zhao Feng," Wang Wan sighed.
"Not only did the King keep Zhao Feng in the palace, but now he's spending the night drinking with him. This is an honor no one else has ever received," he said with emotion.
"I've already apologized to Zhao Feng for the misunderstanding caused by my old master. I trust Zhao Feng won't hold a grudge," Fusu interjected calmly.
"The King's favor likely stems from Zhao Feng being our nation's youngest military prodigy, now granted the title of General. It's only natural for the King to hold him in such esteem," Fusu added.
"Indeed, having such a talent is a blessing for Qin," he said sincerely.
"It's a pity," Chancellor Kuai Zhuang sighed, "winning Zhao Feng over to our side seems nearly impossible now."
"All we can hope is that Zhao Feng, like his father-in-law Wang Jian, understands the duties of a loyal subject and refrains from involving himself in the succession struggle."
"Today's court session regarding the Bai family was truly unexpected," Wang Wan remarked.
"To think Zhao Feng's mind is so meticulous he even brought evidence of the Bai family's crimes."
"Had the King punished Zhao Feng in response to their impeachment, I was prepared to intercede on his behalf and use the opportunity to form a bond. Alas…" Wang Wan trailed off, his face marked with disappointment.
"The Bai family's actions were indeed excessive," Fusu said, his tone disdainful.
"Embezzling state salaries, abusing civilians, and shielding each other it's no wonder my father was furious. Even I wouldn't show mercy in such cases."
Hearing this, both Wang Wan and Kuai Zhuang exchanged a glance but chose to remain silent.
As seasoned ministers deeply entrenched in court politics, they knew how complicated such matters could be.
"Your Highness," Wang Wan shifted the subject, "your wedding day is approaching. The residence needs preparation. Shall I arrange for people to assist?"
"There's no need," Fusu replied, shaking his head with a hint of displeasure.
"The royal clan will take care of it."
"Your Highness, there is good news," Kuai Zhuang interjected with a smile.
"The Meng family has now fully aligned with you."
"They have chosen you," Kuai Zhuang said confidently.
"Meng Yi and I grew up together. It is my honor that the Meng family has chosen me," Fusu said, a faint smile appearing on his face.
"However," Wang Wan cautioned, "only Meng Yi has expressed clear support. Meng Wu and Meng Tian remain cautious. Meng Yi's actions might merely be a trial gesture."
"Understandable," Fusu said calmly.
"As one of Qin's foremost military clans, the Meng family cannot afford to commit fully."
"If I were to fail, they would face complete ruin."
"Your Highness need not worry," Wang Wan said reassuringly.
"Among the King's sons, who could rival you?"
"Meng Yi's stance already represents the Meng family's attitude," Wang Wan added with confidence.
"Ultimately, the King's decision is what matters most," Fusu replied evenly.
"There's no need to overthink it."
Though Fusu had ambitions for the throne, he was well aware that without his father's decree, all court support would amount to nothing.
Even the most powerful ministers couldn't outweigh a single word from the King.
Seeing Fusu's composure, Wang Wan and Kuai Zhuang felt at a loss for words.
"It's late," Wang Wan finally said.
"We shall take our leave now, Your Highness."
"Travel safely," Fusu nodded. "I won't see you out."
After the two ministers departed, Fusu's face showed a trace of helplessness.
"Power, family, alliances…"
"It seems none of it is within my control."
At the Wang residence:
"Father,"
"Why hasn't Zhao Feng returned yet?"
In the rear courtyard, after putting her two children to bed, Wang Yan came over to her father, Wang Jian, visibly worried.
"Don't worry, Yan'er," Wang Jian reassured her.
"Zhao Feng is doing very well."
"The King holds him in high regard. He's currently drinking with the King in the palace."
"Even I have never had such an honor," Wang Jian added, a touch of envy in his voice.
"Will he come back tomorrow?" Wang Yan asked anxiously.
Ever since parting at the military camp years ago, she hadn't seen Zhao Feng for several years.
Although she had borne him two children and their marriage was officially decreed by the King, making her his wife, she still couldn't help but feel uneasy.
Thinking about Zhao Feng, she still felt somewhat uneasy.
It had been years since they last met.
She wasn't sure how Zhao Feng would treat her after all this time.
"He'll be back, don't worry," Wang Jian reassured her with a smile.
As a father, he had always showered his daughter with endless love, far more than he ever gave his sons.
"Okay," Wang Yan finally nodded.
"Have you been to Zhao Feng's home? How are his mother and sister?" Wang Jian asked curiously.
He knew a fair bit about Zhao Feng, but he wasn't familiar with his family situation.
"They're doing well," Wang Yan replied with a warm smile.
"That's good to hear," Wang Jian said with a laugh. "I just didn't want you to face any hardships after marrying into his family. Though, it seems like things might change soon."
"How so?" Wang Yan looked puzzled.
"Zhao Feng has been promoted to General of the Army. He'll probably have to settle in Xianyang in the future. That makes it easier for me to visit you." Wang Jian chuckled.
"Zhao Feng was promoted to General of the Army?"
"Is that true?" Wang Yan asked, her face full of shock.
"Didn't I tell you?" Wang Jian furrowed his brow, suddenly doubting himself.
"No, you didn't!" Wang Yan replied, still in disbelief.
"It happened just today. Zhao Feng has officially been appointed General of the Army," Wang Jian confirmed with pride.
"Congratulations, Yan'er. From now on, you're the wife of a General of the Army!" he said with a hearty laugh.
"He became General of the Army?"
"The former logistics officer, the former junior military officer, is now a General of the Army?"
"How is that even possible?" Wang Yan muttered, her face filled with incredulity.
Though she knew Zhao Feng to be brave and capable, she could never have imagined that he would rise to such heights.
"A 20-year-old General of the Army," Wang Jian mused.
"Yan'er, he might even have a chance to become Grand Marshal someday. Among the younger generation, neither Meng Tian, Li Xin, nor my son can compare to Zhao Feng."
Even Wang Jian couldn't help but admire Zhao Feng's meteoric rise.
"Grand Marshal…" Wang Yan's expression grew even more complex.
In the past, as the daughter of Wang Jian, her status was not insignificant.
But compared to Zhao Feng's achievements now, her identity seemed far less remarkable.
This made her even more anxious, afraid that Zhao Feng might no longer want her.
After all, their relationship was built on a life-saving debt repaid with a promise of marriage.
The night passed without incident.
For many officials at the court, however, Zhao Feng had become a figure of envy.
Although they weren't in the palace themselves, news quickly spread that Zhao Feng had been invited by the King to stay overnight, drinking and conversing late into the night.
Such favor from the King was unheard of.
In a side hall of the royal palace:
Zhao Feng lay on a soft couch, unclothed, with the morning sun rising outside.
Slowly opening his eyes, he sighed contentedly.
"That was the best sleep I've had in years."
"Ever since I joined the army, I've never slept so soundly. I can't believe that just four years ago, I was a mere commoner. Now, I'm sleeping in the royal palace. It all feels like a dream," Zhao Feng thought, staring at the ornate ceiling.
Last night, despite his robust constitution and ability to resist alcohol using internal energy, Zhao Feng chose to drink freely.
The King's genuine openness and indulgence had led him to let his guard down and enjoy the evening to its fullest.
Thanks to his strong physique and fast metabolism, the effects of the alcohol had already worn off by morning.
Rising from the couch, Zhao Feng realized he was still undressed and that his clothing was nowhere in sight.
"Is anyone there?" he called out toward the door.
The door opened, and a palace maid entered, bowing respectfully.
"The General is awake. Allow us to assist you with dressing," she said softly.
The maid then turned to call for others. "Bring the General's official robes!"
Moments later, a group of maids entered the hall, carrying Zhao Feng's robes, belt, and sword.
As they approached Zhao Feng, some couldn't help but blush at the sight of his tall and muscular frame.
"General," the lead maid said, bowing deeply. "Please allow us to assist you in dressing."
"No need. You may all leave," Zhao Feng replied with a wave of his hand.
"General, it is our duty to serve you. If we don't assist you, we may be punished," the maid said anxiously, immediately kneeling along with the others.
Seeing this, Zhao Feng sighed and nodded.
"Very well," he said, standing up and spreading his arms.
"Thank you, General," the maids said gratefully, stepping forward to help him dress.
As they worked, Zhao Feng asked casually, "Has His Majesty awakened yet?"
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