14
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Qin's Forests, Former Summer Residence of the Qin King
---
Exiting the Passage and Entering the Forest
As Ka Ryo Ten—formerly known as Tu Ge—led us through the hidden passage, my 300 elite soldiers moved silently and cautiously. The chaotic sounds of the bandit village had faded completely into the distance. The passage was narrow and dark, but it was clear that Ka Ryo Ten knew it like the back of his hand. At one point, he stopped, turned, and spoke with a sly grin:
"See? I told you. The rebels would never think of this passage. They're probably still busy laying traps in the village."
Shin, who was walking behind him, grumbled at his relaxed demeanor:
"You sure became chatty once you took off that chicken costume."
Ka Ryo Ten smirked at Shin, responding mockingly:
"Relax, big guy. If my help is keeping you safe, you could at least thank me."
Shin opened his mouth to retort, but I raised a hand to silence him.
"Quiet," I said in a calm but firm tone. "We're not safe yet. We need to seal the passage and manage our forces carefully."
---
Sealing the Passage
At the end of the passage, I stopped and surveyed the area. To prevent the risk of being followed, I decided to destroy the entrance. Turning to Ka Ryo Ten, I explained the plan:
"This passage is no longer an advantage—it's a liability. We can't let the rebels use it to follow us. We'll seal it here."
Han immediately sprang into action, directing a few soldiers to pile stones and wood to collapse the passage.
Shin, standing nearby with a dissatisfied expression, remarked:
"Destroying the passage is a good idea. But defending this narrow space would have been more effective."
Shaking my head, I replied:
"You might be right, but it's too risky. Our priority is to get King Ei Sei to safety. Closing the passage will buy us time and make it harder for them to pursue us."
Shin, though not entirely convinced, sheathed his sword and nodded in agreement.
---
The Journey Through the Forest
After sealing the passage, we advanced into the forest. The narrow trail we followed was flanked by steep mountains, creating a natural barrier. While this provided some protection, it also made the area ideal for ambushes.
At one point, Ei Sei stopped and turned to address us:
"This trail leads to the summer residence of a former Qin king. It's a place long forgotten by most, but it will offer us temporary refuge."
His words seemed to ease the tension among the soldiers, but I remained vigilant. "We need to check the area thoroughly," I thought. Turning to my troops, I issued a clear command:
"Stay alert. Report any sound, movement, or shadow immediately. Everything here could be a threat."
Han repeated my order loudly for the entire unit:
"You heard him! Eyes open, everyone!"
---
Leaving the Horses Behind
As the trail narrowed further, it became impossible to continue on horseback. Shin noticed this first and grumbled:
"Do we really have to leave the horses here? We've been moving so quickly; this will slow us down."
Ka Ryo Ten interjected, casually placing his hands behind his head:
"Leave the horses. The path is so narrow, you'll all tumble down the cliffs if you try riding through. Besides, if you want to keep a large group like this unnoticed, forget the animals."
Reluctantly, Shin dismounted, glaring at Ka Ryo Ten.
"Remember this, Ten. If this path turns out to be a trap, I'll find you first."
Ka Ryo Ten chuckled mockingly.
"Sure, big guy. If you find me, make sure to thank me first."
I didn't engage in their banter, instead securing my horse to a tree.
"From here on, we need to be even more cautious," I said. "If we're forced to fight, the narrow trail will limit the enemy's numbers."
---
Arrival at the Summer Residence
After nearly three hours of travel, we emerged into a wide clearing. The trail ended at a large, ancient estate surrounded by towering mountains. It was the former summer residence of a Qin king, and its strategic location made it easy to defend. Ei Sei scanned the surroundings and spoke:
"This place was once important to the Qin kings. Now, almost no one knows about it. It's the perfect spot for temporary shelter."
Han swiftly deployed soldiers to secure the perimeter, while Shin remained cautious. Approaching Ei Sei, he bowed slightly and asked:
"Your Majesty, is this place truly secure, or is it just a relic of the past?"
Ei Sei replied calmly:
"It's a refuge, but I can't promise it's entirely safe. For now, it's our best option."
---
The Weight of the Past
As the unit settled in, a brief silence returned. Sitting on a nearby rock, I surveyed the area. Ei Sei, Shin, and Ka Ryo Ten were scattered, each discussing various concerns with soldiers.
"This is a resting point," I thought. "But we can't escape the reality of war. Our next move will determine the course of the larger battle."
Shin approached me, his tone serious:
"Zhi Yong, this place might buy us some time. But if we're going to win this war, we'll need more than just a safe spot."
Nodding, I replied:
"You're right. But every victory starts with being in the right place at the right time. For now, that's all we need to focus on."
Shin gripped his sword and bowed his head slightly. In this struggle, everyone understood their role. But the most critical task still lay ahead: continuing to fight for Qin's future.
### **Date:** 245 BCE
**Location:** Qin's Forests, Former Summer Residence of the Qin King
---
### **The Wait and Silence**
After a chaotic escape, we finally took refuge in the former summer residence of King Mu Gong. Surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests, it felt as if we were nestled in a fortress. The tranquility here allowed us a brief moment to catch our breath, but my mind was restless, constantly spinning with the events from the manga and the dangers looming ahead.
Sitting in a room, I was studying a map when I thought to myself:
"Sho Bun Kun's arrival is imminent. The king hasn't said anything, but I know the plot from the manga. Still, things could change at any moment."
---
### **Ka Ryo Ten and the Meals**
Ka Ryo Ten, now part of our group since the village, had quickly become indispensable. His culinary skills stood out, especially in restoring the energy of our tired soldiers. As I ate his meal, I thought to myself:
"Should I consider Ten as a potential partner? In the original story, she grew into quite a beautiful woman... Never mind, I'll think about that later. I need to focus on more pressing matters now."
Shin, while eating, had a smile on his face. "Ten, this meal is really excellent. Who would have thought that someone who wears a chicken costume could cook so well?" he said, teasing.
Ka Ryo Ten turned to Shin and replied with a serious expression:
"If you like my cooking, you might want to talk less. Otherwise, next time, you'll just have to settle for bread."
The playful exchange lightened the mood in the room a little.
---
### **Danger Approaches**
Despite the brief moment of calm, my unease didn't fade. Having read the manga, I knew that this silence wouldn't last. My senses told me that we were being followed. I stepped outside and gathered my soldiers. With a firm voice, I gave the orders:
"Stay alert. The enemy could be here at any moment. Even while resting, be cautious. Night shifts will be doubled."
Han, after hearing my orders, quickly got to work organizing the soldiers.
"Understood, my lord," he said, directing the men.
Shin came over and quietly murmured:
"Zhi Yong, do you really expect danger? It should be hard for them to follow us here."
I turned to him, speaking calmly but seriously:
"Shin, we don't know how organized the enemy is. But these paths aren't difficult for an assassin or a small group to navigate. We must remain prepared for any possibility."
Shin fell silent, then tightened his grip on his sword, showing his resolve to be ready.
---
### **The Hours of the Night**
As the night wore on, an eerie silence hung over the summer residence. But this silence only made me more uneasy. "If the events in the manga are true, it's only a matter of time before an assassin is sent here," I thought to myself. With this tension gnawing at me, I kept my sword close and waited.
Suddenly, I heard the faintest rustling sound. It was barely audible, but thanks to my military training and the heightened senses granted by the system, I caught it immediately. I quietly rose and grabbed my sword. A shadow had appeared outside the house.
"It's starting," I muttered to myself.
---
### **The First Strike from the Enemy**
Outside the door, a large man emerged from the shadow. He was short and stocky, but the weapon he held—a crossbow—gave him a dangerous aura. I recognized him instantly from the manga: a deadly assassin who used poison-tipped arrows.
The man raised his crossbow to aim directly at the door. But I had anticipated his move. I quickly opened the door and, with a swift motion, swung my sword. The crossbow was instantly split in half. The man staggered back in shock.
"You…" he stammered, his eyes wide with fear. "Who can react that quickly?!"
Stepping forward with a smile, I spoke confidently:
"You really thought you could stop me with such a simple weapon? Now, prepare to die."
---
### **A Quick and Decisive Strike**
The man took a step back and pulled another crossbow from his belt. But I was faster. Anticipating his move, I lunged and struck with my sword, rendering his second weapon useless before he could fire. Panicking, he tried to run, but I didn't give him the chance. I swiftly moved behind him and aimed my sword at his throat.
"No… Please, show mercy!" he cried out. But I responded firmly:
"I show no mercy to those who attempt to assassinate the King of Qin."
With one final swing, I struck him down, and the assassin fell to the ground, motionless.
---
### **Aftermath**
After the swift but effective encounter, my soldiers outside went into full alert mode. Han, taking a few soldiers with him, came to join me.
"My lord, are there any more traces of enemies around?" he asked.
I shook my head.
"For now, it was just this man. But we must remain cautious. More enemies could arrive later."
Ei Sei stepped outside and, after a long moment of looking at the fallen assassin, turned to me and spoke calmly but with resolve:
"Zhi Yong, it is truly a blessing to have you and your soldiers by my side. Only by moving together can we survive these dangers."
I nodded and smiled slightly in response:
"Your Majesty, this is only the beginning. We are ready to fight alongside you to unite Qin."
---
### **The Silence of the Night**
The night returned to its eerie quiet. But this silence felt like a victory—the first strike of the enemy had been thwarted, and we were now ready for whatever greater dangers lay ahead. This was only the beginning of the battle for Qin's future.
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Qin Mountains, Former Summer Residence of King Mu Gong
---
The Arrival of Sho Bun Kun
As the darkness of the night began to fade with the first light of dawn, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed from the depths of the forest. My soldiers immediately assumed defensive positions—swords were drawn, and arrows were nocked. But as the figures drew closer, the silhouette of a familiar face emerged: Sho Bun Kun.
Sho Bun Kun led a group of weary foot soldiers toward us. The exhaustion was clear on their faces, but their determination was even more striking. I stepped forward to greet them, calling out:
"Sho Bun Kun-sama! At last, you've arrived."
Sho Bun Kun gave me a respectful nod before turning to King Ei Sei, where he knelt in a formal bow:
"Your Majesty, it is a blessing to see you safe."
Ei Sei smiled faintly, placing a reassuring hand on Sho Bun Kun's shoulder:
"Sho Bun Kun, your loyalty and efforts are greatly appreciated. However, our time is limited. We must assess the situation quickly."
Sho Bun Kun straightened and began his report with urgency:
"Your Majesty, the rebel forces have seized the royal palace. General Ou Ki's unexpected maneuver disrupted our plans. However, if we can secure an alliance with the mountain tribes, we may still turn the tide in our favor."
At this, Shin furrowed his brows and interrupted:
"The mountain tribes? Aren't they our enemies? Why would they help us?"
Sho Bun Kun turned to Shin with patience:
"Yes, historically, we've clashed with the mountain tribes. But they too have suffered losses due to the rebellion. A common enemy can unite even the most unlikely allies."
Ka Ryo Ten, deep in thought, added:
"Gaining their trust won't be easy. What can we do to convince them?"
Sho Bun Kun's face hardened with resolve:
"We must meet directly with their leader. It's a risky venture, but it's our only option."
Ei Sei looked around at all of us before making his decision:
"Then it's settled. We will journey to meet the mountain tribes. Prepare immediately."
---
Planning the Meeting with the Mountain Tribes
Sho Bun Kun's report underscored the gravity of our situation. Securing an alliance with the mountain tribes seemed like the most logical course of action, but it required a meticulous plan.
Gathering my soldiers, I addressed them with firm resolve:
"Comrades, we have a critical mission ahead. We must secure an alliance with the mountain tribes by meeting their leader. This journey will be fraught with danger, and I need every one of you to stay vigilant."
Han stepped forward and asked:
"My lord, how many of us will be making the journey? Should we take the entire unit?"
Shaking my head, I replied:
"No, Han. Bringing a large force would only alarm the mountain tribes. We'll go as a small delegation. I will go with Shin, Ka Ryo Ten, and Sho Bun Kun. You'll remain here with the rest of the soldiers to secure this location."
Han bowed respectfully, accepting the responsibility:
"Understood, my lord. We'll maintain security here. Good luck on your mission."
Shin inspected his sword, signaling his readiness:
"Zhi Yong, when do we leave?"
Sho Bun Kun unfurled a map and pointed to the route:
"We must leave as soon as possible. The path to the mountain tribes' territory is treacherous and will take us through difficult trails. Let's finalize our preparations and move out immediately."
Ka Ryo Ten, after checking his supplies, chimed in:
"I'm ready. Communicating with the mountain tribes will be challenging, but we'll do our best."
Ei Sei approached us, his gaze steady and resolute:
"This mission is vital for Qin's future. I trust you all. Return with success."
Bowing respectfully to the king, we completed our preparations and began our journey to the mountain tribes.
---
The Journey Begins
The path to the mountain tribes' territory was fraught with obstacles. Steep cliffs, dense forests, and narrow trails tested our physical endurance and coordination as a team. Sho Bun Kun led the way, his experience and familiarity with the terrain invaluable.
At times, we encountered signs of the tribes' presence—makeshift barricades, remnants of campfires, and even hidden watchers observing our progress from afar. It was clear we were entering their domain.
Shin, walking beside me, muttered:
"These people don't trust outsiders. If this goes wrong, they won't hesitate to attack us."
I nodded.
"That's why we need to approach carefully. We must show them that we come in peace, and our intentions are genuine."
Ka Ryo Ten added:
"Trust will take time, but it's not impossible. Let's hope their leader is willing to listen."
---
Reaching the Mountain Tribes' Territory
After hours of arduous travel, we reached the edge of the mountain tribes' settlement. The air was thick with tension as we were met by armed sentries. Their weapons were primitive but effective—bows, spears, and axes crafted with precision.
One of the sentries, a tall and muscular man, stepped forward and growled:
"Outsiders are not welcome here. State your purpose or leave."
Sho Bun Kun stepped forward, his tone calm but firm:
"We seek an audience with your leader. We come with no ill intent, only to discuss an alliance against a common enemy."
The sentry hesitated, his eyes scanning us suspiciously. Finally, he relented:
"Wait here. I'll inform the chief."
As he disappeared into the settlement, Shin whispered to me:
"This could go south at any moment. We need to be ready for anything."
I tightened my grip on my sword and replied:
"We will be. But let's hope diplomacy wins the day."
---
The Chief of the Mountain Tribes
After a tense wait, the sentry returned and gestured for us to follow. We were led to a central tent, where the chief of the mountain tribes awaited us. The chief was an imposing figure, with sharp eyes that seemed to pierce through us.
Sho Bun Kun began the introductions, explaining our mission and the dire circumstances Qin faced. The chief listened silently, his expression unreadable.
Finally, he spoke:
"Your king seeks our aid, but why should we trust you? Qin has always treated the mountain tribes as enemies."
Sho Bun Kun replied with conviction:
"Because the rebellion threatens us all. If Qin falls, the rebels will come for your people next. United, we stand a chance. Divided, we will all perish."
The chief leaned back, considering his words. His gaze shifted to me, then to Shin, as if weighing our sincerity.
"We will see," he said finally. "Tomorrow, we will speak further. Tonight, you rest."
---
The Challenge Ahead
As night fell, we settled into the mountain settlement. The atmosphere was tense, but there was a glimmer of hope. If we could secure the trust of the mountain tribes, it could tip the scales in Qin's favor.
"This is only the first step," I thought as I gazed at the stars. "The future of Qin rests on our ability to unite against this rebellion. And we will succeed—no matter the cost."
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Mountain Path to the Territory of the Mountain Tribes
---
Tensions on the Road
As Sho Bun Kun, Ei Sei, and I traversed the narrow mountain path, accompanied by Shin, Ka Ryo Ten, and a handful of chosen guards, the silence of the mountains weighed heavily on us. The stakes of our mission—the alliance with the mountain tribes—loomed in my mind, and I found myself questioning the intricacies of Sho Bun Kun's plan.
After a stretch of silence, I broke it with a deliberately pointed question, my tone laced with mild sarcasm:
"Sho Bun Kun-sama, how many soldiers are you expecting to recruit from the mountain tribes?"
Sho Bun Kun paused briefly, his expression serious as he answered:
"At least 50,000."
I barely suppressed a laugh at the ambitious number. Sho Bun Kun must have noticed my subtle reaction because his brows furrowed as he continued:
"Is 50,000 not impressive enough for you, Zhi Yong?"
---
Analyzing the Numbers
After considering his response, I decided it was time to challenge the plan's feasibility. Drawing on my knowledge of the manga and our current situation, I posed my next question:
"Sama, what is the estimated size of Cheng Jiao's rebel forces in the capital?"
Sho Bun Kun thought for a moment before replying:
"Roughly 80,000 troops, according to our intelligence."
Nodding thoughtfully, I spoke aloud:
"So, we're planning to face an entrenched force of 80,000 rebels with 50,000 troops, assuming we can even assemble that number. They have the advantage of defense, while we'll be on the offensive. However, the capital isn't designed for prolonged defense—that's an opportunity for us."
Ei Sei, clearly intrigued by my analysis, interjected:
"Zhi Yong, why do you believe 50,000 troops won't be enough to give us the advantage?"
Taking a deep breath, I calmly explained:
"Your Majesty, assembling 50,000 troops from the mountain tribes is an ideal scenario. However, the mountain tribes are fragmented into independent clans. While I believe their leader, Yo Tan Wa, is capable of uniting them, it will take time—time we don't have."
---
The Ryu Fui Factor
Sho Bun Kun listened carefully before asking:
"Zhi Yong, why do you seem so pessimistic? Are you underestimating the mountain tribes' ability to unify?"
I shook my head and replied evenly:
"No, Sho Bun Kun-sama. I'm simply being realistic. And we have another pressing issue: Ryu Fui. As you mentioned, he's currently leading Qin's 200,000-strong army on a campaign against the Han state. Even if Ryu Fui wanted to intervene in this rebellion, his current position makes timely action impossible."
At my words, Ei Sei's face grew contemplative. I continued, addressing the unspoken dangers:
"Let's assume Ryu Fui does return. If you fail to reclaim the throne before he arrives, he may recognize Cheng Jiao as king. Worse, Ryu Fui might manipulate him as a puppet. Cheng Jiao is younger and easier to control, making him an ideal candidate for Ryu Fui's schemes."
Ei Sei exhaled deeply and, after a moment, asked in a measured tone:
"So, what you're saying, Zhi Yong, is that I must reclaim the throne before Ryu Fui returns?"
"Exactly, Your Majesty," I confirmed. "However, even if you succeed, you won't be able to confront Ryu Fui directly. He also won't dare move against you openly. That'll be a battle for another day. Right now, our priority is securing an alliance with the mountain tribes."
---
The Mountain Tribes and Yo Tan Wa
Sho Bun Kun remained silent, clearly deep in thought. Ei Sei observed me intently, perhaps gauging the weight of my words. Inwardly, my thoughts turned to Yo Tan Wa. In the manga, she was depicted as an unparalleled leader, capable of uniting the disparate mountain clans. Convincing her, however, would be no easy task.
Ka Ryo Ten broke the silence, voicing the group's collective doubts:
"Why would the mountain tribes even consider helping us? We've been fighting them for years. Now we're supposed to ask for their help out of nowhere?"
Turning to Ka Ryo Ten, I offered a reassuring smile:
"Yo Tan Wa is no ordinary leader. She's the only one capable of uniting the mountain clans. But to convince her, we'll need the right words and actions."
Shin, ever impatient, cut in:
"This Yo Tan Wa—can she really be that effective? If she's so powerful, why hasn't she attacked Qin already?"
Chuckling softly, I replied:
"Because she values strategy over brute force. If she believes in the strength of your leadership, she'll support you. But if she senses any weakness or disrespect, this alliance will end before it begins."
---
Pressing Onward
As our discussions tapered off, we resumed our journey along the winding mountain path. My eyes scanned the surroundings for any potential threats. This mission was pivotal for Qin's future, and every detail had to be handled with precision.
Sho Bun Kun eventually sidled closer to me, speaking in a hushed tone:
"Zhi Yong, your points are valid. But how do you propose we gain Yo Tan Wa's trust?"
With a faint smile, I answered:
"We'll show her Qin's future, Sho Bun Kun-sama. But first, we must demonstrate that we respect her leadership. Trust begins with acknowledgment."
Ei Sei, who had been listening quietly, nodded resolutely.
"This journey isn't just about forming an alliance. It's an opportunity to lay the foundation for Qin's unification. Together, we will succeed."
As we continued along the treacherous path, the weight of the upcoming meeting with Yo Tan Wa grew heavier. This was more than a negotiation—it was the first step toward realizing the dream of a unified Qin.
Date: 245 BCE
Location: The Mountain Kingdom of Yo Tan Wa
---
The Approach to Yo Tan Wa's Kingdom
Under Bajio's guidance, we navigated the treacherous mountain trails. The narrow, slippery paths were surrounded by steep cliffs that spelled certain death for a single misstep. Bajio moved effortlessly, while Shin, his frustration evident, muttered:
"Do people really live here? How can anyone survive in a place like this?"
I turned to Shin with a faint smile and replied in a low voice:
"Don't underestimate them, Shin. Surviving here isn't a weakness; it's a testament to their strength. Harsh conditions don't break people—they make them stronger."
Chastened, Shin looked away, silent but clearly reflecting on my words. Ei Sei, walking ahead, maintained his quiet determination. This was his first major test as a leader, and he had no room for failure.
---
The Mountain Kingdom of Yo Tan Wa
As the narrow trails gave way to a wide plateau, we were met with a breathtaking sight. Nestled amidst the mountains was a vast and sophisticated city, its stone structures, wooden towers, and formidable walls a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the mountain people.
Shin's eyes widened in disbelief as he exclaimed:
"How is this even possible? Is this really where the mountain people live?"
I replied calmly, my tone laced with admiration:
"Yes, Shin. Never underestimate the mountain people. They're not just warriors; they're builders of civilization."
Silenced by the awe-inspiring view, Shin fell quiet, his gaze wandering over the impressive architecture.
---
Audience with Yo Tan Wa
Bajio led us to a grand stone structure guarded by two towering warriors. After whispering a few words to them, he turned back to us and said:
"Our king awaits you. Enter."
Ascending the stone steps, we entered a spacious hall dominated by a high stone throne. Seated upon it was Yo Tan Wa, radiating charisma and an aura of unshakable confidence. Her gaze was piercing, her presence commanding. Around her stood several warriors, their silent vigilance a testament to her authority.
Ei Sei stepped forward and bowed respectfully:
"Yo Tan Wa-sama, I, the King of Qin, have come to seek an alliance with you."
Yo Tan Wa regarded him intently before smiling and responding:
"I'm listening, King of Qin. What is it you seek?"
---
Ei Sei and Yo Tan Wa's Negotiation
Ei Sei spoke with conviction, outlining Qin's dire situation, Cheng Jiao's rebellion, and his vision of uniting Qin. Yo Tan Wa listened carefully, her expression unreadable. When Ei Sei finished, she rose from her throne and approached him.
"Your words are strong, King of Qin," she said. "But words alone are not enough. Can you prove them?"
Ei Sei met her challenge without hesitation:
"I am not here to unite just Qin—I am here to unite all of China. This is merely the first step in my journey. If you trust and support me, I can ensure that the mountain people will be an integral part of this unification."
Yo Tan Wa studied him for a moment before a slight smile returned to her face.
"Compelling words, King of Qin. But tell me, what exactly do you expect from us?"
Ei Sei answered directly:
"I ask for your soldiers. I need your support to crush Cheng Jiao's rebellion and reclaim my throne."
---
Yo Tan Wa's Decision
Yo Tan Wa paced the room, her expression contemplative. Finally, she stopped and spoke decisively:
"My soldiers will fight for you. But I can only spare 3,000. I will not risk more than that."
At this, Shin stepped forward, his frustration boiling over:
"Only 3,000?! That's nowhere near enough! Cheng Jiao has 80,000 troops!"
Yo Tan Wa turned to Shin, her tone calm but resolute:
"If you believe victory comes from numbers alone, you are gravely mistaken. Wars are won through strategy and determination, not just strength in numbers."
Chastened, Shin fell silent. Ei Sei, however, bowed his head respectfully and said:
"Even 3,000 is enough, Yo Tan Wa-sama. Your support is invaluable, and we are deeply grateful."
---
Formulating the Plan
Yo Tan Wa gestured to Bajio, who brought forth a large map. It detailed all the routes to the Qin capital and the positions of Cheng Jiao's rebel forces. Ei Sei studied the map carefully before outlining his plan:
"With the mountain warriors' support, we will infiltrate the capital. Disguised as mountain people, we will slip past the defenses and strike at Cheng Jiao's key ministers, especially his right-hand man. Once he falls, the rebel army will descend into chaos, and we'll seize the advantage."
Yo Tan Wa nodded approvingly but added:
"A bold plan. But courage alone won't suffice. My soldiers will guide you, but the success of this mission rests on your shoulders."
Ei Sei met her gaze, his resolve unshaken.
"Your trust strengthens me, Yo Tan Wa-sama. Together, we will achieve victory."
---
Final Preparations
As Ei Sei, Shin, Yo Tan Wa, and I continued discussing the finer details, the plan began to take shape. Every step, every contingency was meticulously considered. When the meeting concluded, we were ready to embark on a mission that could alter the course of Qin's future.
Shin, gripping his sword tightly as we left the hall, murmured under his breath:
"This time, there will be no failure. We will crush Cheng Jiao and his rebellion."
With Yo Tan Wa's leadership and the support of the mountain people, we stood on the brink of a decisive battle. This was not just Ei Sei's fight—it was a struggle that would determine the fate of all China.
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