10
Chapter 10: The Silent Years
Character Age: 12
Date: 246 BCE
---
The Past Four Years
The last four years have been a period of steady growth and transformation for our farm. By adhering to the strategies we set earlier, we strengthened our trade network in both Qin and Chu, making our farm one of the most respected production centers in the region. During this time, we avoided taking major risks and instead focused on quietly solidifying our foundational infrastructure.
---
1. Growth in Production and Trade
Plow Project
As planned, the production and sale of plows in Qin continued. This product gained significant popularity in agricultural regions and made farmers' lives easier. Initially, we aimed to produce 1,000 units, but increasing demand led us to manufacture a total of 2,500 plows.
Trade with Chu
Our egg and toothbrush trade with Chu maintained a consistent pace. However, we realized that this trade was no longer the main source of our income. Revenue from plow sales in Qin provided a far greater boost to the growth of our farm.
New Trade Network
Over these years, we built stronger ties with merchants in Qin. Particularly around the capital Xianyang, our trade gained recognition. In Qin's agricultural regions, our plows became known for their quality and reliability.
---
2. Workforce and Infrastructure Development
Workforce
Over the past four years, our workforce grew steadily. We now have a total of 50 workers and 20 guards. The workers not only handle production but also participate in logistics and trade operations. Meanwhile, the guards ensure the security of the farm and play a strategic role in protecting our goods along trade routes.
Infrastructure
Our farm is no longer just a small agricultural plot. We've built new storage facilities, production workshops, and training grounds for the guards. Additionally, we established a larger workshop specifically for plow manufacturing, optimizing both metal and woodwork processes.
---
3. Personal Growth
Zhi Yong
Over the last four years, I focused on my education and physical development. Thanks to the system, I improved my intelligence and strategic thinking abilities. I also continued swordsmanship and leadership training with Shin and Piao. I now possessed the capacity to lead not only in commerce but also on the battlefield.
Shin and Piao
Shin underwent significant changes during this time. His physical strength and combat skills nearly reached an adult's level, but he retained his energetic and ambitious personality. Piao, on the other hand, became a more composed and strategic leader, managing most of the farm's operations.
---
4. Social Standing
Our farm's success earned us respect among local communities. We are now recognized not just as a production center but also as a hub for trade and security. Farmers turn to us for products and assistance, while merchants in Qin are pleased to work with us.
---
5. Impending Change
Though these past four years were a period of steady growth, this tranquility could not last forever. The system panel sent me a notification, reminding me that major events would begin in six months. This aligned with the timeline of the events depicted in the Kingdom manga.
[System Notification: In Six Months, the First Phase of Major Events in Qin Will Begin. Be Prepared.]
This message filled me with both excitement and apprehension. Qin was about to enter a period of political and military turmoil, and we would have to find our way through this chaos.
---
Conclusion: The Power of Silence
These past four years were a period of preparation for the great changes to come. Now, we have a strong trade network, a respected farm, and a loyal team. However, with the approaching events, this silence will come to an end, and we will begin our fight to carve out our place in Qin's history.
"These four years were just the beginning," I thought. "Now, the real battle begins."
Approaching Events and Uncertainty
With only six months left before the anticipated beginning of the Kingdom manga storyline, I found myself in a whirlwind of developments and encounters with key figures destined to shape Qin's future. My audience with the King and Ryo Fui's attempt to sway me to his side filled my mind with complex thoughts and conflicting emotions.
---
Meeting with the King
One month ago, I had the privilege of meeting the King (Ei Sei's father) and presenting the efficiency of our plows. I pledged to deliver 1,000 plows, a monumental order that would stretch our farm's capacity but also solidify our ties with the Qin court.
The King, impressed by the impact our plows could have on the kingdom's farmers, said to me:
"Zhi Yong, the benefits these plows will bring to our farmers will strengthen Qin's food security for generations. A young and brilliant trader like you is an asset to this kingdom."
These words deeply motivated me while simultaneously instilling a sense of heavy responsibility. This was more than just a trade deal—it was a step toward becoming an integral part of Qin's future.
---
Encounter with Ryo Fui
During my stay at the palace, I was unexpectedly approached by Ryo Fui. Known for his unmatched political and economic cunning, he sought to recruit me to his side. With a calm yet commanding voice, he said:
"Young man, you hold tremendous potential for Qin's future. Join me, work by my side. Your intellect and strength could reshape the balance of power within the court. Together, we can elevate Qin to unparalleled heights."
I was taken aback by this proposal. While it was an honor to have caught the attention of someone as influential as Ryo Fui, I instinctively knew that his intentions were purely self-serving. Politely but firmly, I replied:
"I have seen many people clothed, yet without substance. And many without clothes, yet full of humanity."
Ryo Fui seemed intrigued by my response. He smiled faintly, stood up, and as he left the room, he remarked:
"You are an interesting young man. I look forward to watching you grow."
Since that encounter, Ryo Fui had not approached me again, but I was certain that I had left an impression on him. I knew this would not be the last time our paths crossed.
---
System Panel: Updated Stats
Sitting in a vast meadow, I opened my system panel to review my progress. These past four years had been transformative, enhancing my physical, intellectual, and leadership abilities.
Zhi Yong's Stats:
Intelligence: 67
Strength: 51
Speed: 50
Endurance: 61
Charisma: 65
Swordsmanship: 60 (Advanced Level)
Leadership: 65
Strategy: 75
Active Abilities:
1. Mind of a Genius: Rapidly formulates strategic solutions in critical situations.
2. General's Aura: Temporarily boosts troop strength by 50% (1-hour duration, 24-hour cooldown).
3. Commercial Acumen: Allows manipulation of rivals during negotiations and trade deals.
These stats reflected not only my growing competence as a trader but also my evolution into a strategic leader capable of navigating both the battlefield and the court.
---
Shin and Piao's Development
Shin and Piao had grown alongside me, maturing into powerful and reliable allies.
Shin's Stats:
Strength: 60
Speed: 55
Endurance: 58
Swordsmanship: 50 (Advanced Level)
Intelligence: 42
Leadership: 54
Strategy: 55
Shin's remarkable physical strength and swordsmanship had reached advanced levels, making him a formidable warrior. However, his intellect still lagged behind mine and Piao's, reflecting his warrior's instinct over calculated reasoning.
Piao's Stats:
Intelligence: 58
Strength: 48
Speed: 45
Endurance: 50
Leadership: 55
Strategy: 60
Piao, on the other hand, had developed into a balanced leader and strategist. Though not as physically imposing as Shin, his sharp intellect and leadership skills made him indispensable. He now managed most of the farm's operations, significantly lightening my workload.
---
Future Plans
The next six months would be a period of quiet preparation. However, with the Kingdom storyline set to begin, I knew that the political and military landscape of Qin would soon shift dramatically. Especially after the King's passing, the power dynamics within Qin would undergo a complete upheaval, forcing us to navigate through chaos.
Our Objectives:
1. Strengthening Ties with the Qin Court: Successfully fulfilling the plow order to establish a permanent presence in the royal court.
2. Fortifying the Farm: Expanding our workforce and guard force to turn the farm into both a commercial and military hub.
3. Advanced Training: Enhancing the skills of our guards and workers under the leadership of Shin, Piao, and myself.
---
"The next six months will test everything we've built so far," I thought. "But if we play our cards right, this is just the beginning of our ascent in Qin."
Reflections and Assessments
With only six months remaining until the start of Kingdom's pivotal events, I found myself reflecting on the remarkable progress Shin and Piao had made. Compared to their counterparts in the original series, their development had been nothing short of extraordinary. Both had undergone rigorous training and constant challenges, elevating them to the level of an average general, or perhaps even higher.
Shin's relentless physical growth and combat prowess stood out, while Piao displayed a balanced maturity as a leader and strategist. It was clear they were both capable of making a difference on the battlefield. Yet, I couldn't shake the lingering question—would their skills be enough to shield them from the twists of fate?
---
Shin and Piao's Growth
Shin: The Pinnacle of Physical Strength
Through continuous training, Shin had honed his physical abilities to an almost superhuman level. He could effortlessly take down dozens of bandits on his own and had become a near-unrivaled warrior with his swordsmanship. His courage and determination made him a standout both as a fighter and a burgeoning leader. However, his shortcomings in strategic thinking remained evident.
One day during training, I said to Shin:
"Shin, your strength is phenomenal. But wars aren't won by physical power alone. If you want to lead an army, you need to focus more on strategy."
Shin laughed and replied: "My job is to fight. You and Piao can handle the strategies!"
While his response revealed his youthful and somewhat careless attitude, it also reassured me that his bold and fearless spirit was intact.
Piao: The Balancing Force
Piao, on the other hand, had become a master of leadership and strategy. Over the past four years, he had repeatedly faced difficult decisions and consistently achieved the best outcomes. His calm and analytical demeanor provided a perfect counterbalance to Shin's energetic and straightforward nature.
In one of our discussions, Piao said to me: "Zhi Yong, leadership isn't just about intelligence or physical strength. It's about understanding how to guide people and earn their trust. In war, it's not just the soldiers who need to be strong—it's their leader as well."
His words highlighted his growing maturity and reinforced the fact that he had become a reliable and capable leader.
---
My Own Growth
Over these years, I too had grown both physically and mentally. I could confidently say that I was a step ahead of Shin and Piao in leadership and strategy. However, I remained realistic about my limits. Matching wits with a strategic genius like Ri Boku was still far beyond my reach.
"Perhaps I could handle someone like Go Kei," I mused. "But Ri Boku? That's still a distant goal."
---
Preparing for the Future
The impending events in Qin promised to test everything we had built so far. Shin and Piao had grown into warriors and leaders in their own right, but the challenges ahead would demand even more from them—and from me.
I resolved to continue sharpening my own skills while pushing Shin and Piao to new heights. For in the storm that was coming, we would need every ounce of strength, intelligence, and unity to carve out our path in history.
My Situation: Strategic Strength
Reflecting on my own development, I can confidently say that I am above the level of an average general in both physical and strategic capabilities. However, this realization doesn't make me arrogant—I know that Qin is home to many masters of the art of war. Figures like Ri Boku remain far beyond my reach for now, though I feel I might be able to contend with someone like Go Kei, depending on the circumstances. Any misstep in planning or preparation could erase this advantage.
One day, as I sat with Shin and Piao, I emphasized the importance of strategic thinking:
"War isn't just about strength or speed. You must strike the enemy where they are weak and always plan several steps ahead. If we master this, we won't just win battles—we'll shape the future of Qin."
---
Piao's Fate and Potential Future
In the original story, Piao's death was a pivotal moment, serving as a catalyst for both Ei Sei's rise and Shin's motivation. However, in our current situation, the likelihood of Piao's demise seems far lower. He is now a strong, strategic, and capable leader.
If Sho Bun Kun arrives to take Piao to the palace, we may be able to handle the situation differently this time. This thought both reassures and challenges me, pushing me to plan more carefully.
---
Lessons from the Last Four Years and Bandit Wars
The experiences of the past four years have elevated us to a completely different level on the battlefield. Countless skirmishes with bandits honed our physical strength and strategic skills. These encounters not only refined our own abilities but also allowed us to train and organize our guards.
For example, when a group of 50 bandits attacked our farm, we implemented the following strategy:
Bandit Attack Strategy
1. Defensive Positioning:
We deployed our guards around natural barriers near the farm, making it difficult for the bandits to advance.
2. Traps:
Hidden traps placed around the farm disrupted and scattered the bandits.
3. Swift Assault:
Shin and Piao led the charge, inspiring the guards with their leadership and courage.
4. Targeting the Leader:
I focused directly on the bandit leader. Once he was defeated, the group panicked and fled.
These encounters not only tested our physical endurance but also reinforced our psychological resilience. They proved how strong we were as a team and how effective our collaboration could be.
---
Balance of Power and Future Battles
The skills and experience we've gained over the past four years have transformed us from mere fighters into leaders capable of commanding small armies. But it's not enough. When the events of Kingdom unfold, we won't just face bandits or ordinary fighters. This time, we'll confront Qin's greatest generals and the brilliant minds of other states.
One day, I asked myself, "Can I stand toe-to-toe with Qin's top generals right now?" My answer was clear and firm: "No."
This truth drives me to work harder and think more strategically. To outwit someone like Ri Boku, I must sharpen my intellect even further. That's why I frequently check my system panel to monitor my progress.
---
My System Panel and Stats
Through battles and constant training, my stats have grown significantly over the past four years:
Intelligence: 67
Strength: 51
Speed: 50
Endurance: 61
Charisma: 65
Swordsmanship: 60 (Advanced Level)
Leadership: 65
Strategy: 75
These numbers reflect not only my growth as a leader and strategist but also my development as a warrior. Yet, my true strength lies not just in these stats but in the bonds I've forged with those around me and my ability to guide their talents effectively.
---
Shin and Piao's Strength
Shin: Advanced Warrior
Strength: 60
Speed: 55
Endurance: 58
Swordsmanship: 50 (Advanced Level)
Intelligence: 42
Leadership: 54
Strategy: 55
Shin's current power allows him to take down 300 men on his own in battle. His courage and endurance always inspire confidence in our team.
Piao: A Rising Star in Strategy and Leadership
Intelligence: 58
Strength: 48
Speed: 45
Endurance: 50
Leadership: 55
Strategy: 60
Piao has made incredible strides in leadership and strategy. If he continues on this path, he could become one of Qin's top strategists in a few years.
---
Conclusion: Letting Fate Unfold
Now, I wait patiently to see where fate will lead us. I do not want Piao to meet the tragic end he does in the original story. However, with our current strength and abilities, I believe that destiny can be altered. The groundwork we've laid over the past four years has given us stability and confidence. From here, the journey ahead will test both our intellect and our bravery.
"This world will test us," I thought. "But as long as we stand together, we will emerge victorious."