Li Si stepped into the grand hall of Zhangtai Palace.
"Your subject greets Your Majesty."
Li Si bowed deeply in respect.
"Now that Zhao territory has just been conquered, the Qin law still needs to be implemented there. Why has the Minister of Justice suddenly come here?" Ying Zheng asked calmly, without even looking up.
Whenever he was not facing Zhao Feng, Ying Zheng maintained his usual imposing and unapproachable demeanor, making it impossible for anyone to discern his thoughts.
"Today, this subject has come with a request for Your Majesty."
Li Si bowed once again, his tone extremely respectful.
"A request?"
Hearing these words, Ying Zheng's brows twitched slightly. He raised his head and looked at Li Si with a hint of surprise. "It is rare for the Minister of Justice to use such a word. Speak."
"My eldest son, Li You, has served as the governor of Beijiang for several years now. I request Your Majesty to issue an edict to have him reassigned."
Li Si spoke directly.
At this request, Ying Zheng remained composed.
"If I recall correctly, Li You has indeed served as the governor of Beidi County for four years. He has done well, inheriting your administrative abilities. According to protocol, he is eligible for reassignment."
"For this, there is no need for you to make a formal request."
Hearing this, Li Si raised his head and respectfully replied, "Your Majesty, I do not wish for Li You to be reassigned back to the capital. Instead, I would like him to be transferred into the military."
"Your Majesty has already appointed Zhao Feng as a general, yet his army has not been established. Thus, I humbly request the opportunity for Li You to serve under General Zhao Feng."
As he spoke, Li Si bowed once more.
Upon hearing these words, Ying Zheng immediately understood Li Si's intentions.
"You seek a command position for Li You?"
Ying Zheng's voice was calm, revealing no emotion.
"This subject humbly makes this request."
Li Si bowed again.
"If this were in the past, you would not have made such a request."
"What has changed that compels you to do so now?" Ying Zheng asked as he gazed intently at Li Si.
Li Si met Ying Zheng's eyes without fear and responded with deep reverence, "Your Majesty, I wish to ensure the survival of my family's bloodline."
"Hmm?"
Ying Zheng frowned slightly. "With me here, who would dare harm the Li family?"
"As long as Your Majesty is here, my family has nothing to fear. But the future is uncertain."
"I can die, but my bloodline must not be cut off."
"Therefore, I beg Your Majesty to grant my request."
Li Si spoke solemnly, his tone carrying a sense of lament.
Li Si was a very intelligent man.
If he were not, he would not have left his mark in history.
Over the past month, the political landscape of the court had shifted due to an edict issued by Ying Zheng.
Previously, only the eldest prince, Fusu, participated in court affairs. But now, the eighteenth prince, Hu Hai, had also begun attending court.
Many viewed this development as a sign that His Majesty was dissatisfied with Fusu and was cultivating a new heir.
As a result, many ministers who previously supported Fusu began shifting their allegiance to Hu Hai. Some, who had remained neutral, also started backing Hu Hai. With the additional influence of Hu Hai's maternal family, he quickly gained significant support in court.
But Li Si saw through it all.
Ying Zheng's decision to allow Hu Hai to participate in court was not just about suppressing Fusu it was also a way to train him.
Fusu was, in name, his son-in-law, but their relationship was one of mutual hostility.
If Fusu ascended the throne one day, he might show mercy due to his kind nature. However, officials like Wang Wan would certainly not spare him.
Such is the nature of power struggles either you live, or you die.
As he observed Li Si, Ying Zheng sighed inwardly. He understood Li Si's concerns all too well.
Right now, while he was still young, everything remained under his control. But once he grew old and passed away, things would no longer go as he wished.
Moreover, among all his sons, Fusu was indeed the most outstanding, even if he did not fully meet Ying Zheng's expectations.
In the future, perhaps there would be no other choice.
"So be it."
"As you wish."
"After tomorrow's court assembly, where the establishment of the new army camp will be discussed, Li You will enter military service under Zhao Feng."
Ying Zheng spoke slowly.
Hearing this, Li Si was overwhelmed with gratitude. He bowed deeply.
"This subject thanks Your Majesty for your great kindness."
"Li Si will serve Your Majesty with utmost loyalty until death."
Ying Zheng nodded, saying no more. He merely waved a hand, signaling Li Si to withdraw.
As Li Si exited, Ying Zheng pondered.
"Compared to Wei Liao, Li Si is indeed more tied to his family and overthinks things."
"Does he truly believe Fusu is that incapable?"
Watching Li Si's determined figure, Ying Zheng could not help but reflect.
The Next Day
The Court Assembly Hall
"The officials may enter the hall."
As Zhao Gao's voice echoed outside the hall, the assembled officials followed protocol, placing their swords on the racks outside before entering in an orderly fashion according to their rank.
The military officials lined up in one row.
Wang Jian stood at the front, followed by Meng Wu, then Huan Yi, and finally Zhao Feng.
The civil officials formed another row.
Wang Wan stood at the forefront, followed by Kui Zhuang, then Wei Liao, Li Si, and the rest of the Nine Ministers.
Of course, once inside the hall, each official had their designated seat.
The assembly did not take place while standing they were seated according to rank, with military and civil officials clearly separated.
However, today's court assembly had something different.
Between the rows of military and civil officials stood two figures.
One was the eldest prince, Fusu. The other was Hu Hai.
Both wore official court robes, standing at the center of the assembly hall.
Compared to Fusu's composed demeanor, Hu Hai's expression carried a hint of arrogance.
Perhaps, as the saying goes, "A dragon begets nine sons, and each is different."
"It seems that my little ploy in front of the Qin King worked Hu Hai is attending court now."
"This must be making Wang Wan and his faction nervous."
Seeing Hu Hai standing opposite Fusu, Zhao Feng smiled with satisfaction.
This was the "gift" he had prepared for Wang Wan and his allies.
As for whether they had figured out why Qin Shi Huang suddenly allowed Hu Hai to participate in court matters that wasn't Zhao Feng's concern. Even if they did suspect his involvement, what could they do?
Zhao Feng had long known of Wang Wan's schemes against him. In his book, there was no such thing as allowing them to attack him without retaliation.
This was simply a "gift in return."
"His Majesty enters court!"
Zhao Gao's voice rang out.
"We respectfully welcome Your Majesty."
"May Your Majesty live for ten thousand years! May the Great Qin endure for ten thousand years!"
All officials raised their ceremonial tablets high, their voices resounding in unison.
The entire court was filled with a solemn and majestic atmosphere.
Amidst the resounding chorus of reverence…
Ying Zheng slowly stepped into the grand hall of the court and took his seat on the throne.
"Rise," he waved his hand.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," the assembled ministers responded in unison.
"If there are matters to present, step forward. If not, the court is dismissed," Zhao Gao announced loudly.
"I have a matter to report!"
"I, Your Majesty, have a matter to report!" Wei Liao stepped forward directly.
"What is it, Minister Wei?" Ying Zheng looked down at him.
"Zhao's territory has been under our Qin rule for half a year now. All matters have been settled, yet the process of reclaiming the lands and properties held by Zhao's nobility has encountered significant resistance."
"The Zhao aristocrats are strongly resisting and refuse to comply," Wei Liao reported.
"In our great Qin, only those with meritorious service can own land. Only those granted noble titles by our court may receive such rewards."
"If they refuse to abide by the national laws, then why should we keep them around?"
"Deliver my decree to Han Fei should any Zhao aristocrats obstruct the land reclamation process, I hereby grant him the authority to mobilize the stationed troops in the commandery to suppress these disloyal nobles," Ying Zheng declared coldly.
"I receive the decree," Wei Liao immediately bowed and withdrew.
He had already decided on this matter, but since it involved the Zhao nobility, he needed the king's direct order to proceed.
"Your Majesty!"
"The Zhao nobility holds great power," a voice spoke up.
"I believe we should not exterminate them completely. If we push too hard, our own Qin forces may suffer losses as well. It would be wise to delay suppression for now and instead extend grace to them, winning their loyalty," Fusu advised.
"Elder Brother, you are mistaken,"
Hu Hai immediately stepped forward, bowed deeply to Ying Zheng, and then said loudly, "The nobles of Qin rise to prominence through military merit and governance, while the Zhao nobility are merely remnants of a defeated state. If they do not submit to Qin, as Father has decreed, they must be eradicated."
"By seizing their lands and wealth, we can strengthen the Qin treasury and provide for our hundred-thousand-strong elite forces."
Fusu frowned. "Eighteenth Brother, do you know how many Zhao nobles exist? Do you know how many private soldiers they command?"
"Although our Qin army has conquered Zhao, its noble class is deeply entrenched in the region. Zhao's vast territory cannot be compared to the remnants of Han's aristocracy in Yingchuan."
"If we suppress them with sheer force, we risk uniting them all against us, leading to massive expenditures and an eventual depletion of Qin's national strength."
Hearing this, Hu Hai refused to back down. "If we grant these Zhao nobles privileges and allow them to retain their lands, are we not undermining Qin's laws?"
"The system of land distribution in Qin is based on military merit and noble rank!"
"To show leniency to the Zhao nobles would be a betrayal of our brave Qin warriors!"
Hu Hai's loud and firm stance drew the attention of many ministers in court.
Many of them looked at Hu Hai with newfound respect, surprised by his eloquence and sharp reasoning.
Standing beside Ying Zheng, Zhao Gao smiled to himself: Regarding the handling of the Zhao nobility, Wei Liao had already submitted a memorial. Preparing the prince in advance to make his argument was indeed the right move.
"Today, the prince's performance will certainly impress the King and the ministers."
And indeed, as Zhao Gao expected, Hu Hai's argument surprised many court officials.
"Hu Hai was never this articulate before."
"It seems Zhao Gao has been coaching him."
"Being close to the King, he must have already known about Wei Liao's report. Interesting..."
Zhao Feng chuckled, watching the scene as though it were entertainment.
As Fusu and Hu Hai continued their debate, their respective supporters among the ministers also began arguing fervently.
Seeing the dispute escalate, Ying Zheng's expression remained unreadable.
After some time, as the arguments persisted, he glanced over at Zhao Feng, who was watching the scene unfold with amusement.
"That boy..."
"He looks like he's enjoying a show."
"And it's a show involving my sons."
With just a glance, Ying Zheng noticed Zhao Feng's expression.
From his throne, it felt as if he were in a classroom from the future, looking down and taking in everything at once.
As the debate continued, ministers from both factions joined in the argument.
After a while, Ying Zheng raised his hand, and the court fell silent at once.
"Minister Zhao,"
"What is your view on the Zhao nobility?"
Ying Zheng turned his gaze toward Zhao Feng.
Hearing this, the entire court fell silent, all eyes turning toward Zhao Feng.
He was instantly bewildered.
"How did watching the debate suddenly turn into me being called upon?"
However, under the watchful eyes of the entire court, Zhao Feng had no choice but to step forward, holding his court tablet.
"Your Majesty,"
"I am a military officer, not a civil administrator."
"The matter of dealing with the Zhao aristocracy is beyond my expertise."
"I only know how to fight battles, not how to govern."
Zhao Feng did not want to get involved.
"No matter,"
"Speak freely. Even if you are wrong, I will not blame you," Ying Zheng said with a faint smile, waving his hand.
It was clear he wanted Zhao Feng's opinion.
"Although the Grand General is a military officer, his insights into governance might still be of value. We are willing to listen," Wang Wan said with a smile.
"Indeed,"
"General Zhao, please speak your mind," Wei Zhuang added.
Their tone made it clear they were expecting to hear something amusing.
Seeing this, Zhao Feng stopped hesitating.
He spoke calmly: "The Zhao nobility is different from our Qin aristocracy. They are deeply rooted in a hereditary system, controlling vast lands and wealth. However, among them, many talented individuals could serve Qin and contribute to our administration."
"In my opinion,"
"We should employ both firm and benevolent measures."
"Those Zhao nobles who willingly pledge allegiance to Qin, follow our laws, and serve our government should be allowed to retain a portion of their lands. The extent of their holdings should depend on their willingness to cooperate."
"However,"
"Those who refuse to submit and persist in rebellion must be dealt with harshly."
"We must make an example of them," Zhao Feng stated plainly.
Upon hearing his words, many ministers in the court exchanged glances, impressed.
Even Ying Zheng's eyes lit up.
Compared to Han, Zhao was a much larger and more complex state. A different approach was necessary for its governance.
"Minister Zhao's proposal is indeed reasonable."
"What do the rest of you think?" Ying Zheng asked with a smile.
"I support it," Fusu immediately agreed.
"I support it," Hu Hai quickly followed.
"We support it," the ministers echoed in unison.
Zhao Feng's approach struck a balance between leniency and strictness, making it a viable strategy.
"Minister Wei,"
"Send a decree to Han Fei have him implement Zhao Feng's strategy."
"Those who willingly submit may retain thirty percent of their lands."
"Those who refuse must be suppressed with an iron fist the ringleaders executed, the rest enslaved, and their properties confiscated."
Ying Zheng issued his decree immediately.
Wei Liao immediately accepted the order.
"Enough."
"The matter of handling the Zhao nobility has been decided."
"Next, we shall discuss the formation of a new military camp."
"Zhao Qing has already been appointed as the Protector General of our Great Qin, with the title of Supreme General."
"He shall establish a new camp."
"With the current strength of our Great Qin, we can indeed expand our forces by forming a new military camp to guard the Zhao lands and secure the empire."
"This new camp shall be divided into three main divisions."
"As for the selection of the commanders, Zhao Qing, do you have any recommendations?" Ying Zheng looked at Zhao Feng.
As soon as this question was raised, many ministers in the court showed disappointed expressions.
The establishment of a new military camp with three main divisions meant three positions for chief commanders.
Each commander would command an army of 100,000 troops and hold military power.
This was naturally a position many ministers wished to secure for their allies, even among military officers associated with them.
"Your Majesty."
"For the commanders of the new divisions, I recommend my former deputy generals, Tu Sui and Zhang Han."
"These two generals have followed me through countless battles, defeating Pang Nuan, slaying Lian Po, and conquering Handan, earning numerous military merits. They are more than qualified to hold these positions," Zhao Feng declared loudly.
Three divisions Zhao Feng naturally could not appoint all the commanders from his faction, but these two were essential.
Even if he could not secure all of them, he would ensure that the deputy commanders under them remained under his control.
"Your Majesty."
"Tu Sui and Zhang Han are too closely tied to General Zhao Feng."
"I believe they should be reassigned to other camps instead of serving directly under Zhao Feng."
"For the sake of the nation and the power of the throne, such matters cannot be taken lightly."
Chunyu Yue, unable to hold back, stepped forward and voiced his concerns loudly.
As soon as these words were spoken, Wang Wan furrowed his brows but remained silent, clearly not intending to oppose him.
After all, Chunyu Yue's concerns were valid.
Zhao Feng merely cast a calm glance at Chunyu Yue, feeling a hint of coldness in his heart but showing no outward reaction.
"I am merely making recommendations. The final decision on appointments belongs to Your Majesty, and I shall not interfere further," Zhao Feng replied evenly.
His expression remained composed, devoid of any anger or rebuttal that Chunyu Yue had likely anticipated.
"Tu Sui and Zhang Han."
"They have shown unwavering loyalty to Great Qin and have contributed greatly on the battlefield. They are fit to be commanders."
Ying Zheng ignored Chunyu Yue's objection and made his decision.
With these words, the matter was settled.
"Your Majesty is wise," Zhao Feng immediately bowed.
Two of the three main divisions were now in his grasp.
"Your Majesty must reconsider!" Chunyu Yue said, unwilling to accept the decision.
"A civil official like you should focus on civil affairs."
"You cannot even handle your responsibilities properly, yet you think you have the right to dictate military affairs?"
"His Majesty has made his decision, and you still wish to challenge it?"
"Oh, by the way."
"When Wang Yan and I were engaged, you deliberately sent a disciple named Meng Jia to threaten me into breaking the engagement."
"Although that matter has passed, I have not forgotten it."
Zhao Feng turned and coldly confronted Chunyu Yue, his words filled with menace.
Hearing this, the court officials exchanged strange glances.
"This Chunyu Yue… is he a fool? He dared to interfere with Zhao Feng's engagement to the Wang family?"
"That was far too reckless."
"It seems Chunyu Yue went to great lengths to secure the Wang family's support for the Crown Prince."
"To ruin a marriage like that it is truly disgraceful."
Many officials whispered among themselves.
Fusu lowered his head, unable to refute anything.
After all, what Zhao Feng said was true.
The matter had been laid to rest, yet Chunyu Yue had brought trouble upon himself by provoking Zhao Feng again.
"It seems…"
"Zhao Feng must be restrained. His hatred for Chunyu Yue extends to the Crown Prince as well."
"But now that he has been promoted to Supreme General, suppressing him will be difficult. The key is to prevent him from advancing further in the future." Wang Wan's heart sank.
Though the issue had been resolved before, bringing it up again now caused Chunyu Yue to tremble, his face turning red and pale in succession.
Seeing Ying Zheng's cold expression on the throne, Chunyu Yue's hands shook as he pointed at Zhao Feng. "You"
"You what?"
"I have no interest in wasting words with someone like you," Zhao Feng cut him off sharply and turned away.
Ying Zheng, watching, smirked internally.
"This boy… he truly never lets go of a grudge."
"Your Majesty."
"I have already recommended two commanders."
"The third commander should be chosen by Your Majesty."
"There are also numerous deputy commanders and military advisors who need to be appointed at Your Majesty's discretion," Zhao Feng said.
"For the third division commander, I already have someone in mind," Ying Zheng declared, his tone firm.
All eyes turned toward him.
"Li You, Governor of Beidi, is well-versed in both civil and military affairs and can command troops."
"He shall be appointed as the third division commander of the new military camp."
As soon as these words fell, Wang Wan, Kui Zhuang, and other members of Fusu's faction visibly tensed.
Their gazes all turned toward Li Si.
"What a well-executed plan."
"When did he speak to His Majesty about this?"
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