章 15: 15
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Yo Tan Wa's Palace, Mountain Region
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Strategic Council
At the stone table in Yo Tan Wa's palace, we gathered for the most important discussion yet. Ei Sei, Shin, Sho Bun Kun, Bajio, Bi Hei, and I sat around the table, with Yo Tan Wa at its head. The weight of Qin's future and the fate of China hung heavy in the air.
Yo Tan Wa's eyes scanned the map before her, and she broke the silence:
"I believe the best way to win this war is to infiltrate Qin's capital under the guise of an alliance. We'll claim that the mountain tribes seek an official treaty with Qin, gaining entry into the city."
Bi Hei immediately voiced his doubts:
"But how? Why would Lu Shi allow you to enter? He might not even let you near the gates."
Sho Bun Kun, sharing Bi Hei's concerns, furrowed his brows and added:
"The mountain tribes have a long history of conflict with Qin. Why would they suddenly trust this alliance proposal?"
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My Intervention
Hearing their doubts, I smiled faintly and spoke up:
"Lu Shi will have no choice but to accept. Cheng Jiao's rebellion has amassed 80,000 troops, as Sho Bun Kun-sama mentioned. However, they lack the Imperial Seal, preventing them from recruiting further. If they had that seal, their numbers would already surpass 200,000. That seal is their greatest limitation—and our greatest advantage."
Yo Tan Wa listened intently, nodding slightly at my explanation. Bi Hei, still unconvinced, pressed further:
"But why would Lu Shi trust the mountain tribes to help? Why would he rely on us to suppress a rebellion?"
I shook my head and replied confidently:
"Lu Shi has no choice. He's afraid of Ryu Fui."
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Lu Shi's Predicament
I elaborated on Lu Shi's precarious situation:
"Lu Shi is one of the key leaders of this rebellion. However, he knows that Ryu Fui's 200,000-strong army will return from Han. If Cheng Jiao isn't on the throne when Ryu Fui arrives, Ryu Fui will treat Cheng Jiao—and by extension, Lu Shi—as mere pawns to crush the rebellion. Remember, Ryu Fui only values his own power."
Ei Sei, processing this information, asked:
"So, there's no reason for Lu Shi not to recognize me as king, correct?"
I nodded.
"Exactly, Your Majesty. Lu Shi knows Ryu Fui would manipulate Cheng Jiao, but he doesn't want you on the throne either, as that would weaken his position. However, if we use the alliance as a pretext to enter the capital, we can catch him off guard."
Yo Tan Wa, who had been listening closely, interjected:
"That means we must gain access to the inner courtyard of the palace. But that's where security will be tightest."
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The Inner Courtyard Infiltration Plan
I pointed to the map, specifically the heavily guarded inner courtyard of the capital:
"Yes, Yo Tan Wa-sama is correct. The inner courtyard will be under strict control. Even if we pass the outer gates, the inner courtyard will only allow a limited number of people. My estimate is no more than 100."
Shin leaned forward, his excitement palpable:
"So, how do we choose the 100 who'll go in?"
I turned to Yo Tan Wa as I answered:
"Fifty will come from my elite troops. The remaining fifty will be chosen from the mountain warriors. This way, both Qin and the mountain tribes are represented."
Yo Tan Wa considered my suggestion, nodding slightly.
"A reasonable plan. However, this group must be disciplined and ready to fight to the death. The inner courtyard is the final line of defense. Any mistakes there could doom the entire operation."
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Sho Bun Kun's Objection
Sho Bun Kun raised a concern:
"Is such a risky strategy truly necessary? Couldn't we approach this with a larger force?"
Yo Tan Wa addressed his objection firmly:
"No. A larger force would immediately raise suspicion, making it impossible to enter the capital. With time against us, this is the most practical option."
Ei Sei, who had been listening quietly, finally spoke, his voice calm yet resolute:
"Sho Bun Kun, this is my trial. If I am to unify China, I must take this risk. I trust in the plan that Yo Tan Wa and Zhi Yong have laid out."
Sho Bun Kun, silenced by Ei Sei's determination, lowered his head in agreement.
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Final Preparations
As the meeting concluded, a heavy silence filled the room. The plan was ambitious, and the risks were immense. However, success was within reach if we executed it flawlessly.
Shin, inspecting his sword as he prepared for battle, turned to me with a sly grin:
"Do you really think such a small group can topple Cheng Jiao's army, Zhi Yong?"
I smirked, my confidence unwavering:
"Shin, sometimes the fate of a battle is decided not by numbers but by strategy. You'll see—this plan will work."
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The Road Ahead
The meeting ended, the plan finalized. Now, all that remained was action. Ei Sei needed to prove his leadership, Yo Tan Wa sought to secure her people's future, and I was eager to see my strategies come to life.
Our next step: infiltrating Qin's capital and dismantling Cheng Jiao's rebellion from within. This wasn't just a battle; it was the turning point for Qin and a critical moment for the unification of China.
Age of Character: 13
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Qin Mountains, Road to the Capital
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Departure
The combined forces of 3,000 mountain tribe cavalry and my elite 300 Qin soldiers now formed a 3,300-strong army heading toward the capital. Yo Tan Wa, after entrusting her best warriors to us, had returned to her people, but her confidence in our plan was evident. Now, the task was entirely in our hands.
Ei Sei, Shin, and I rode at the vanguard of the cavalry. My thoughts were occupied with the upcoming battle and weighing the strategic possibilities ahead. Ei Sei and Shin shared the same seriousness. However, Sho Bun Kun broke the silence first.
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Sho Bun Kun's Question and Shin's Answer
Riding closer to me, Sho Bun Kun began,
"Baron Zhi Yong, I have a question. If we were forced to face Cheng Jiao's army head-on, what strategy would you employ, and how would you plan to achieve victory with such a small force?"
I paused, seemingly ready to answer, but instead turned to Shin, saying,
"Sho Bun Kun-sama, I am preoccupied with another calculation at the moment. Direct this question to Shin. He can provide the answer you seek."
Sho Bun Kun raised an eyebrow in surprise but then shifted his attention to Shin. To his credit, Shin was ready for the unexpected inquiry. He smirked slightly and began,
"Sho Bun Kun-sama, engaging Cheng Jiao's army directly wouldn't be wise. However, if a head-on confrontation were unavoidable, my primary focus would be to disrupt their morale and unity."
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Strategic Analysis
Sho Bun Kun looked intrigued and asked,
"Disrupt their morale? How would you achieve that? Undermining the spirit of an 80,000-strong army sounds like an incredibly complex endeavor."
Shin, guiding his horse steadily, replied calmly,
"Morale is an army's weakest point. The size of an army does not determine its strength; leadership and morale decide the fate of battles. Cheng Jiao's army, being a rebel force, is likely to lack discipline. If we can establish psychological superiority, we can erode their will to fight."
Sho Bun Kun nodded thoughtfully but remained skeptical.
"And how would you achieve this superiority with only 3,300 troops? It's not an easy feat."
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Shin's Strategic Plan
After a moment's reflection, Shin confidently elaborated,
"First, I would monitor Cheng Jiao's army closely, using espionage to identify their weaknesses. Second, I would target their supply lines, cutting off food and resources. A hungry army cannot fight."
Sho Bun Kun, visibly impressed, nodded but said nothing as Shin continued,
"Third, I would divide their forces. Instead of confronting 80,000 soldiers directly, I would force them into smaller, more manageable groups and engage them piecemeal."
Sho Bun Kun's astonishment was evident as he exclaimed,
"These are impressive tactics, Shin. But implementing such strategies would require both time and resources. How would you achieve this within the limited timeframe?"
Shin smirked slightly, his confidence unwavering.
"When time is short, creativity becomes our greatest weapon. For instance, I would orchestrate a feint targeting their leader, creating chaos within their ranks. Once their leadership is under pressure, I'd strike at key targets with smaller, specialized units."
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Sho Bun Kun's Amazement
Sho Bun Kun stared at Shin, clearly taken aback by the depth of his strategic thinking. Slowly nodding, he muttered,
"To think someone of your age possesses such advanced tactical insight... Zhi Yong's circle truly consists of remarkable individuals."
Shin, modest despite the praise, responded,
"Sho Bun Kun-sama, I've learned much from Zhi Yong. But war isn't won with plans alone. It's about making the right decisions at the right moments. Experience is the key to those decisions."
Sho Bun Kun paused, clearly impressed by Shin's maturity, and said,
"I see I underestimated you, Shin. You're not just a strong fighter but a strategist as well. That's a rare combination for a general."
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A Quiet Moment
After this exchange, the group fell into a contemplative silence. Shin's display of strategic thinking had left an impression on everyone, even Ei Sei, who quietly observed Shin, perhaps reevaluating the young warrior's potential.
Meanwhile, I couldn't help but smile inwardly.
"Shin isn't just growing as a fighter. He's becoming a leader whose mind matches his strength. His abilities will be invaluable for Qin's future," I thought.
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Conclusion
Sho Bun Kun, still processing Shin's words, finally broke the silence with a murmur,
"It's no wonder you've grown so much under Zhi Yong's guidance. But even so, such a level of strategic thought at your age... It's extraordinary."
Shin didn't respond, keeping his focus on the road ahead. The impending battle would reveal his and everyone else's true potential.
This journey wasn't just a step toward reclaiming the throne; it was the beginning of a battle that would shape Qin's destiny and test the strength of those who sought to protect it.
Age of Character: 13
Date: 245 BCE
Location: The Road from the Qin Mountains to the Capital
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Ei Sei's Question
After Shin's deep strategic conversation with Sho Bun Kun concluded, Ei Sei quickened his pace and rode closer to me. For a while, he remained silent, seemingly lost in thought, before finally speaking with a serious expression:
"Zhi Yong, Shin's insights were truly remarkable. I didn't expect him to devise such detailed strategies. But now I want to ask you—if you were in this situation, what plan would you devise?"
I smiled slightly at his question, turning my gaze to the narrow mountain trails ahead. After a moment of thoughtful silence, I began:
"Your Majesty, Shin's ideas were absolutely correct. However, my approach would be more direct and simultaneously more intricate. To suppress a rebellion while maintaining control over the enemy requires not just physical strength but also psychological warfare. Here's what I would do."
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The Plan to Quell the Rebellion
Ei Sei listened intently as I gestured as though drawing an invisible map in the air.
"The first step," I explained, "would be to target Cheng Jiao's army leaders. They are the backbone of this rebellion. If the leaders are eliminated, the army's discipline will collapse entirely. But this must be achieved not through direct confrontation, but through intelligence and manipulation."
Ei Sei raised his eyebrows and asked:
"Intelligence and manipulation? How exactly would that work?"
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Step 1: Attacking Supply Lines
"The first step," I continued, "is to attack their supply lines. Cheng Jiao's army consists of 80,000 soldiers. Supporting such a large force requires an extensive flow of provisions and supplies. Disrupting their logistics with small, covert raids would leave them hungry and demoralized. This wouldn't be done through direct confrontation but through stealth and ambush tactics, leaving the enemy unsure of where the attacks are coming from."
Ei Sei nodded in agreement.
"That makes sense. A starving army can't fight. But this would only slow them down. We'd still have to face 80,000 soldiers."
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Step 2: Disinformation
Turning to Ei Sei, I elaborated further:
"The second step involves spreading disinformation within the enemy ranks. Creating distrust among Cheng Jiao's leaders would cause the rebellion to collapse from within. For example, we could bribe someone close to Cheng Jiao to spread rumors that his other commanders are plotting against him. This would shatter their unity and erode their morale."
Ei Sei, impressed but cautious, responded:
"That's a cunning move. But to implement such a plan, we'd need reliable agents."
Smiling, I reassured him:
"Your Majesty, we don't necessarily need to deploy our own agents. We can exploit their internal weaknesses. Greed, fear, and ambition are powerful tools to manipulate people."
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Step 3: Establishing Psychological Superiority
Ei Sei continued to listen carefully as I explained the next step:
"The third step is to establish psychological superiority. Cheng Jiao is currently emboldened by his ambition to become king. However, if we present ourselves as a significant threat, we can pressure him into making strategic errors. For instance, I would create the illusion of multiple fronts. By staging several feigned attacks around the capital, we would force Cheng Jiao to split his forces, spreading them too thin to effectively defend."
Ei Sei asked a sharp question:
"But wouldn't that require splitting our forces as well? Isn't that risky?"
Taking a deep breath, I replied:
"Feigned attacks don't require large armies. Small but effective units are sufficient to create the illusion of multiple threats. The key is controlling Cheng Jiao's perception. He'll see the threats but won't be able to verify their reality."
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Final Step: Infiltration and Decisive Strike
As Ei Sei absorbed my explanation, I moved to the final step of the plan:
"The final step is infiltration and delivering a decisive strike. This aligns with the plan we're currently pursuing. By disguising ourselves as mountain tribesmen, we'll infiltrate the capital and eliminate Cheng Jiao's key advisor. Once the advisor is eliminated, Cheng Jiao will lose his support and control over his army, marking the end of the rebellion."
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Ei Sei's Reaction
Ei Sei remained silent for a long moment before meeting my gaze with a determined expression:
"Zhi Yong, your plan isn't just a military strategy; it's also a brilliant political maneuver. With such a mindset, you could be not only a general but also a statesman."
Bowing my head slightly, I replied:
"Your Majesty, my goal is not just the unification of Qin but of all of China. However, this can only be achieved under your leadership."
Shin, who had been listening quietly, smirked and interjected playfully:
"Zhi Yong, you're truly a master strategist. But wouldn't it be more fun to simply cut them all down directly?"
Turning to Shin with a knowing smile, I responded:
"Shin, wars aren't won with swords alone. Intelligence is sharper than any blade."
Raising an eyebrow, Shin considered my words before nodding with a grin:
"I guess you have a point."
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Conclusion
After this exchange, we continued our journey in silence. Ei Sei's resolve seemed to grow stronger, while Sho Bun Kun appeared deep in thought, processing the strategies Shin and I had outlined.
This journey wasn't just a march to reclaim the throne—it was a battle of wits, testing the limits of our minds and strategies. The challenges awaiting us in the capital would determine whether our plans could stand the ultimate test of execution.
This wasn't merely about a rebellion; it was about shaping the future of Qin and laying the groundwork for uniting all of China.
Age of Character: 13
Date: 245 BCE
Location: The Road from Qin Mountains to the Capital
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Shin's Dual Nature
After Shin's sophisticated strategic discussion earlier, Sho Bun Kun seemed bewildered by his sudden shift to a playful, warrior-like demeanor. Shaking his head in disbelief, he asked with a mix of admiration and curiosity:
"Shin, you spoke like a strategist just moments ago. Why are you now acting like a carefree warrior? How can you switch so seamlessly between these two sides?"
Shin loosened his reins, leaned toward Sho Bun Kun with a broad grin, and replied:
"Hahaha! That's because I'm a perfect mix of both—a warrior and a strategist general! But the real trick is knowing when to be which. Right now, I'm speaking like a warrior because we're not on the battlefield. Thinking is Zhi Yong's job!"
I couldn't hold back my laughter but also felt a twinge of irritation. Turning toward Shin, I shouted:
"You little brat! Is it always my job to think?"
Still laughing, Shin waved dismissively:
"Come on, don't take it seriously, Zhi Yong. If we were in battle and I were the general of the right flank, things would be different. I'd be both a warrior and a strategist. But for now, since you're the brains of this group, I'm leaving all the thinking to you!"
Sho Bun Kun listened to this exchange with a mixture of amusement and fascination, mumbling to himself:
"This kid is truly intriguing."
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Shin's Serious Side
The banter continued for a while, with Shin clearly enjoying Sho Bun Kun's perplexed reactions. However, after some time, Shin spurred his horse forward and rode up beside me. His demeanor changed abruptly, and he adopted a more serious posture. Sitting upright on his horse with a commanding presence, he looked every bit the general he aspired to be.
Seeing this transformation, I couldn't help but burst into laughter:
"Puhaha! Shin, you're acting like a proper general now! Hahaha!"
Shin flushed slightly, furrowing his brows as he yelled:
"Knock it off, Zhi Yong! Do you always have to tease me?"
His flustered reaction only made me laugh harder. Seeing Shin try so hard to act serious, despite his naturally playful nature, was endlessly entertaining.
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Silence and Focus
Eventually, the lighthearted atmosphere faded into a quieter, more reflective mood. Shin slowed his horse and maintained his serious expression. Turning his head slightly toward me, he spoke in a low voice:
"Zhi Yong, we'll be reaching the capital soon. Until then, I'd like some peace to gather my thoughts. If anything urgent comes up, let me know."
I smiled and replied teasingly:
"Of course, Shin. I'll try not to disturb your deep thinking. But just so you know, you really do look like a general when you're this serious."
Shin didn't respond, but the faint blush on his face was unmistakable. Riding with a composed demeanor, he continued to lead with the quiet authority of a future great general. Watching him, I couldn't help but think: One day, Shin will undoubtedly become one of Qin's most formidable leaders.
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Ei Sei's Observation
Ei Sei, who had been observing Shin closely, smiled slightly and remarked:
"Shin, you have the qualities to be both a warrior and a strategist general. But you need to learn how to balance these two traits. If one side becomes too dominant, it could weaken the other."
Shin respectfully nodded and replied:
"You're right, Your Majesty. But rest assured, when I'm on the battlefield, I'll use both my strengths to their fullest. For now, focusing on my swordsmanship is enough."
Ei Sei seemed pleased with Shin's mature response, nodding approvingly before falling silent. As we continued down the path, the weight of the impending battle grew heavier in the air, each of us lost in our own thoughts about the challenges ahead.
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Conclusion
This part of our journey highlighted Shin's unique duality—his ability to balance the roles of a fierce warrior and a cunning strategist. Sho Bun Kun couldn't hide his admiration for Shin's potential, while Ei Sei seemed eager to see how this journey would shape both Shin and me as leaders.
One thing was certain: as we neared the capital, everyone became more focused on their roles, preparing for the steps that would ultimately decide the fate of this war.
Age of Character: 13
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Qin Capital, Palace Under Cheng Jiao's Control
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Arrival at the Capital
Disguised as Yo Tan Wa's mountain tribe forces, our army of 3,300 troops reached Qin's capital. As expected, the city gates were heavily guarded. Rebel soldiers were stationed along the walls, their spears and bows ready, watching us with suspicion. The atmosphere was tense, but we had to stick to the plan.
Yo Tan Wa led the way, playing the role of a commanding tribal leader, with Shin, Ei Sei, and me right behind her. The rest of our forces marched in formation, appearing as an orderly yet intimidating unit.
As we approached the gates, a rebel messenger broke away from the watchtower, sprinting toward the palace to report our arrival.
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The Message Reaches Ketsu Shi
The messenger rushed into the palace and knelt before Ketsu Shi, who was holding a meeting with other rebel leaders. The tension in the room grew heavier as Ketsu Shi's piercing gaze fell on the messenger.
"Ketsu Shi-sama!" the messenger began. "The mountain tribes have arrived at the city gates with an estimated force of 3,300. They claim to seek an alliance with us."
Ketsu Shi's expression darkened as he processed the information.
"The mountain tribes? Why would they come here now? Could this be a trap?" he muttered.
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Debates Among the Rebels
The room erupted into heated debates. One rebel leader sneered and shouted:
"Barbarian mountain tribes in Qin? They must be here to declare war! We should kill them all immediately! Send 30,000 troops to crush them at once!"
Another rebel leader echoed the sentiment:
"Yes! Barbarians are Qin's enemies. There's no point in negotiating with them!"
The arguments grew louder until Ketsu Shi slammed his fist on the table and roared:
"Silence! All of you, shut up!"
The room fell silent as Ketsu Shi stood, his commanding presence dominating the room. He scanned the rebel leaders with a steely gaze before continuing:
"We will do everything in our power to secure an alliance with the mountain tribes. Their support could be the key to solidifying Cheng Jiao's rule!"
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Strategic Decision: Ketsu Shi's Calculations
One hesitant rebel leader questioned Ketsu Shi's decision:
"But Ketsu Shi-sama, they're only 3,300 strong. Is it really worth forming an alliance for such a small force?"
Ketsu Shi responded sharply:
"Fool! If they came to fight, they'd have brought over 100,000 warriors. Their small numbers indicate peaceful intentions. This is an opportunity, not a threat."
Another rebel leader nervously interjected:
"But what if this is a trap? Could they be working with Qin King Ei Sei to retake the throne?"
Ketsu Shi paused briefly, considering the possibility, before replying decisively:
"That's a risk we'll take. If we can secure an alliance with the mountain tribes, it could lead to a potential 100,000-strong reinforcement in the future. This would strengthen Cheng Jiao's claim to the throne and provide leverage against Ryu Fui when he returns."
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The Gates Open
Following Ketsu Shi's orders, the city gates were opened, and our disguised force was allowed entry. Yo Tan Wa led the way into the capital, maintaining her commanding facade. She was to act as the leader of the delegation, while Ei Sei, Shin, and I took on the roles of her guards.
Ketsu Shi extended an invitation for us to meet in the palace to discuss the alliance. However, this stage of the plan was the most delicate. Once inside the inner courtyard, the situation would become increasingly dangerous. Shin, Yo Tan Wa, and I exchanged subtle glances, communicating silently. The gravity of the moment was etched onto everyone's faces; even the smallest mistake could unravel our entire strategy.
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Outcome
Ketsu Shi's decision to accept us peacefully aligned perfectly with our plan. However, his eagerness to strengthen Cheng Jiao's rule revealed both his ambition and strategic acumen. Yet, he underestimated the man he was dealing with: Ei Sei, the rightful King of Qin, who had meticulously crafted this strategy alongside Yo Tan Wa, Sho Bun Kun, and me.
The next phase of our plan would take us deeper into the palace and closer to Cheng Jiao's inner circle. This was where the real battle for Qin's future would begin.
Age of Character: 13
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Qin Capital, Inner Palace
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The Battle Begins
As we approached the inner courtyard, 200 rebel guards blocked our path. Armed with long spears and shields, their faces revealed determination mixed with fear. Before they could encircle us, their commander stepped forward and shouted:
"Drop your weapons! You barbarian mountain tribes and Qin traitors will not take another step forward!"
Ei Sei calmly stepped ahead of us, his expression stern yet composed. His voice cut through the tension like a blade:
"Drop our weapons? You still don't understand who the true king is."
With those words, Ei Sei lunged forward. The rebel commander barely had time to react as Ei Sei drew his sword and, in a single swift strike, slit his throat. The commander collapsed, and Ei Sei wiped his blade clean before roaring:
"If anyone wants to stop me, step forward!"
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Ketsu Shi's Reaction
Watching from the palace walls, Ketsu Shi was livid as the events unfolded. His face contorted with rage as he shouted:
"Damn it! How is this possible? How did these barbarians breach the inner courtyard?"
A terrified minister tried to retreat, but Ketsu Shi grabbed his arm and snarled:
"What are you waiting for? Kill them all! Send every guard to destroy them!"
The minister quickly relayed the orders, and more guards began to flood toward the courtyard. But the battle had already begun.
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The Battle Erupts
Our mountain warriors, led by Yo Tan Wa and Bajio, quickly adapted to the fight. Their ferocity overwhelmed the 200 guards in moments. My 50 elite soldiers moved with precision, cutting down rebels with deadly efficiency.
"Forward!" I shouted, and my unit advanced like a single, disciplined force. The clash of swords and the cries of the wounded filled the air as the guards fell one by one. Shin, fighting on the front lines with the mountain warriors, brought down two or more guards with each swing of his blade.
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Breaking Through the Gates
The skirmish ended swiftly, with no casualties on our side. We had neutralized all 200 guards. Ei Sei stepped forward and pointed toward the gates leading deeper into the palace.
"Open the gates! We'll take full control of the inner courtyard!"
Shin turned to me with a determined nod.
"Zhi Yong, I'm heading for the gates. Once we breach them, this place is ours."
I responded with a smirk:
"Go, but stay sharp. We can't afford to lose you."
Shin sprinted toward the gates, and in no time, he managed to open them. Our remaining forces poured into the inner courtyard, solidifying our control. However, the battle was far from over.
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Scaling the Walls
Shin and I exchanged a glance, both realizing what needed to be done next. We had to scale the walls to neutralize Ketsu Shi's defenses.
"Ready?" I asked him.
Shin flashed his signature cocky grin.
"Do you even have to ask, Zhi Yong?"
We climbed the high walls with practiced ease, our training making the task almost effortless. When we reached the top, I spotted Ketsu Shi at a distance. He was surrounded by 500 elite guards but had yet to notice us.
I whispered to Shin:
"Let's focus on opening the gates first. Ignore him for now."
Shin nodded and moved swiftly. Together, we unlocked the gates, allowing 100 of our soldiers to storm in. But at that moment, Ketsu Shi spotted us.
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The Silent Watcher
From a distant vantage point on another wall, a familiar figure caught my eye: Ou Ki, one of Qin's Six Great Generals. Standing beside him was his loyal subordinate, Tou.
Ou Ki watched the chaos unfold, his signature laugh echoing faintly:
"Kokoko… How interesting. The new Qin king has allied with mountain tribes. These young ones might truly shape the future of China."
Tou nodded silently, his expression unreadable. However, this was a battle we had to win without their intervention.
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Confronting Ketsu Shi
Turning my focus back to Ketsu Shi, I charged toward him. His guards tried to block my path, but they were no match for my blade. My first strike slashed through one guard's chest, and my second blow disabled another with surgical precision.
"It's foolish to try and stop me!" I shouted as I cut down the final guard between us.
Ketsu Shi, now trembling, began to backpedal. He clutched his sword but couldn't steady his hands.
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The End of Ketsu Shi
"Stop! I don't have to kill you. I can give you wealth, power—whatever you want! Join Cheng Jiao, and we'll rule together!" Ketsu Shi pleaded desperately.
I responded calmly, my voice filled with resolve:
"Ketsu Shi, you betrayed Qin. You stabbed your king in the back. Why would I ever trust someone like you?"
Raising my sword, I delivered a final, decisive strike. Ketsu Shi crumpled to the ground without a sound. In that moment, I knew we had dealt a fatal blow to the rebellion's core.
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Conclusion
With Ketsu Shi dead, the resistance within the palace crumbled. Ei Sei now stood on the precipice of reclaiming his throne. This victory marked a turning point, but it was only the beginning. The road to uniting China would be long and fraught with even greater challenges.
For now, though, we had secured the heart of Qin.
Age of Character: 13
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Qin Capital, Inner Palace
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Ou Ki's Test
With Ketsu Shi's death, the palace was fully under our control. Yet, a lingering tension filled the air. At that moment, one of Qin's Six Great Generals, Ou Ki, approached us with measured steps. His every move exuded an aura of authority that commanded attention. His loyal lieutenant, Tou, followed closely behind. Ou Ki stopped before Ei Sei, his trademark laugh echoing:
"Kokoko... Qin's new king, Ei Sei. I've been watching your efforts to reclaim your throne. But I want to know if you're truly worthy of it. Therefore, I'll subject you to a small test."
Ei Sei stood firm, unfazed by Ou Ki's challenge, and replied:
"If proving myself is necessary, I accept your test. No matter the challenge, my resolve to unify Qin will not waver."
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The Test: A King's Resolve
Ou Ki smirked and slightly raised his sword. Without hesitation, he lunged at Ei Sei with incredible speed. Ei Sei, as if anticipating the attack, swiftly dodged to the side. Ou Ki retreated with a chuckle before launching another assault, this time verbal:
"A king must do more than simply claim the throne. A true king must lead his army, govern his people, and command respect from his enemies. Ei Sei, can you truly demonstrate that resolve?"
Ei Sei, without lifting his sword, locked eyes with Ou Ki and answered in a steady voice:
"It is my destiny to unify Qin and bring all of China under one banner. If I must fight for this goal, I will. But a king's strength does not lie in his sword—it lies in the faith his people have in him."
Ou Ki paused for a brief moment, his eyes gleaming with intrigue. Then, unable to suppress his laughter, he erupted:
"Kokoko... Excellent! Excellent! This boy isn't just a king—he's a visionary for Qin's future. Very well, Ei Sei. Very well!"
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Shin's Intervention
At this point, Shin stepped forward, resting his sword on his shoulder with his usual cocky grin. He addressed Ou Ki directly:
"Hey, Ou Ki-sama! You don't need to test Ei Sei to see if he's fit to be king. He's already proven himself to all of us. But if you still have doubts, let me, his sword, prove it to you!"
Ou Ki, amused by Shin's boldness, turned to him and laughed even louder:
"Kokoko... I like your spirit, young warrior. Having such a strong sword at Ei Sei's side is reassuring. But beware, young one—make sure your blade doesn't overshadow its wielder."
Shin smirked and shrugged nonchalantly:
"Don't worry, Ou Ki-sama. I'll fight by his side, not in his shadow."
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Ou Ki Turns to Zhi Yong
With the test concluded, Ou Ki turned his gaze toward me. Smiling faintly, he said:
"It's been a while, little baron. It's good to see you again. Kokoko!"
His words were both an honor and a surprise. Bowing slightly, I replied:
"It's an honor to see you again, Ou Ki-sama."
Ou Ki studied me for a moment before breaking into another laugh:
"Good, good. I'm keeping my eye on you, Zhi Yong. You'll play a key role in Qin's future."
---
Cheng Jiao's Punishment
Meanwhile, Ei Sei ordered Cheng Jiao, the leader of the rebellion, to be brought before him. Defeated and abandoned by his soldiers, Cheng Jiao awaited his fate. Ei Sei stood tall before him and spoke in a commanding tone:
"Cheng Jiao, you sought to overthrow me and harm Qin. But I won't punish you with death. Instead, I'll leave you with this warning: If you ever attempt such treachery again, I will wipe out you and your entire family."
With these words, Ei Sei struck Cheng Jiao's face several times with his own hands. It wasn't just a punishment—it was a declaration of Ei Sei's authority as both a king and an elder brother.
---
Ei Sei Ascends the Throne
After Cheng Jiao's punishment, Ei Sei proceeded to the throne. As he sat down, his face reflected both relief and determination. Shin watched the scene unfold and approached Ei Sei with a grin:
"So, how does it feel to finally sit where you belong? You look a lot more relaxed now."
Ei Sei returned the smile but kept his serious tone:
"Yes, Shin. But this is only the beginning. The unification of Qin and all of China is still far ahead."
Shin nodded, his resolve matching Ei Sei's:
"Alright then! Let's walk that long road together."
---
Conclusion
With the throne reclaimed and the rebellion crushed, Ei Sei solidified his position as the rightful king of Qin. However, this victory marked merely the start of a much larger journey. Ou Ki's words and Ei Sei's determination signaled the beginning of a new era for Qin—a period in which the foundations for a unified China would be laid.
The path forward would be fraught with battles and challenges, but Ei Sei and those who stood by his side were ready to shape history.
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