At this moment
The surrendered soldiers had no courage to resist and could only obediently follow orders.
If they complied, there might be a chance to live; if they disobeyed, the consequence would likely be death.
Once all the captives had taken their seats
Zhao Feng's figure slowly appeared on the command platform.
"I am General Zhao Feng."
"Many of you may have heard my name before."
Zhao Feng stepped forward and spoke in a loud, commanding voice.
Even though he had yet to display his power, his sheer presence was enough to instill fear.
"The God of Slaughter, Zhao Feng!"
"It's him!"
"We've ended up in this demon's army!"
"When did he become a Grand General?"
"He's so young!"
"I remember him! I once served under Grand General Lian Po, and I witnessed him being killed by Zhao Feng. His methods are ruthless he slaughters without hesitation. I heard he has already ordered the massacre of countless surrendered soldiers like us!"
"We're doomed."
"Falling into his hands means certain death!"
"We're surrounded by Qin soldiers, and they have archers. There's no escape."
"What do we do?"
...
The moment Zhao Feng's name was mentioned, panic and fear swept through the surrendered Zhao soldiers.
For them, the most terrifying Qin general was not Wang Jian it was Zhao Feng.
The title 'God of Slaughter'
Once used for Bai Qi, had now been widely associated with Zhao Feng by the defeated Zhao soldiers.
Almost every one of them had personally experienced defeat at his hands.
In every battle, Zhao Feng had been present.
To them, his presence alone carried overwhelming dread.
"Now that you are here, you must understand one thing."
"The State of Zhao has fallen. Its lands now belong to Great Qin. The people of Zhao are now Qin subjects."
"From this moment on, there is no longer a distinction between Qin and Zhao." Zhao Feng declared in a deep voice.
His words were immediately repeated by the elite troops, echoing throughout the entire camp.
Upon hearing this, the expressions of many surrendered Zhao soldiers changed drastically.
Many of them had been captured before the fall of Handan. Even after the city was taken, many remained unaware that Zhao had perished.
Because
King Zhao had fled.
Later, Zhao Yi proclaimed himself king of Dai.
Thus, those captured had no way of knowing the true fate of their homeland.
Now
For many surrendered Zhao soldiers, the news was an overwhelming blow.
Their motherland no longer existed. Their nation was gone.
This realization left them in turmoil.
After a moment of silence, Zhao Feng spoke again.
"This camp is called Wu'an Camp a newly established Qin military camp."
"By decree of the King of Qin, Wu'an Camp will have three main divisions, totaling 300,000 soldiers."
"And these 300,000 soldiers must be recruited."
"Originally, the King of Qin ordered me to recruit fresh troops to form this army, but I pleaded with His Majesty to grant mercy to all surrendered Zhao soldiers."
"Thus, I proposed the Criminal Army Reform."
"All surrendered soldiers will be reorganized into the Criminal Army and integrated into Wu'an Camp to fight for Great Qin."
"For each enemy you kill for Great Qin, you will be granted freedom from slave status and be recognized as a rankless soldier of Qin."
"For every five enemies you kill, you will earn a noble title."
Zhao Feng's powerful voice rang out.
He laid out the full details of the Criminal Army Reform.
Once again, the entire army repeated his words.
What followed was the same reaction as when the surrendered Han soldiers were first restructured every single surrendered Zhao soldier was shocked.
They had heard of the Criminal Army, but never knew the details.
Now, they had heard it firsthand.
Especially upon learning that they could earn freedom, it ignited a sense of hope among the captives.
"The choice to join the Criminal Army is yours."
"But if you join and dare to rebel you will be executed, and your entire family will be exterminated."
"If you flee in battle or betray Qin on the battlefield you will be executed, and your entire family will be exterminated."
"General Zhang, General Tu, General Li."
"I leave the rest to you."
"General Zhang will command the cavalry. The other two generals will command the archers and infantry."
"Lead your officers and organize the Criminal Army."
Zhao Feng turned to the three generals.
"We obey!"
The three generals immediately bowed and accepted their orders with respect.
With that
Zhao Feng left the command platform.
His brief appearance had served its purpose to intimidate and establish authority.
With his overwhelming presence in the army, there was no doubt that his influence alone would be more than enough to maintain order.
Back in the Grand General's War Hall
"The reorganization of the surrendered soldiers should take ten days at most. After that, there won't be any major tasks left."
"If there is, it will be training and integration."
"But Zhang Han and the others can handle that." Zhao Feng thought to himself.
"Now that I command 300,000 troops and possess the fortune of an empire should I condense the [Grand General's Seal]?"
At that moment
A notification appeared on Zhao Feng's interface.
"Condense it." Zhao Feng answered immediately.
"[Grand General's Seal] successfully condensed."
"Automatically equipped." The interface notified him.
In the next moment
A newly formed official seal appeared before Zhao Feng.
[Grand General's Seal]
Boosts the morale of all soldiers under command by 3x.
Increases combat effectiveness of troops by 3x.
For every enemy slain by subordinates, the general receives 40% of the battle attributes gained.
"Tripled combat strength and morale."
"And a 40% attribute gain from my soldiers' kills."
"Excellent."
Seeing the new attributes of his seal, Zhao Feng couldn't help but smile.
However
He didn't dwell on it.
The effects of the seal would only truly manifest on the battlefield.
For now
His task was to train and integrate the newly formed Criminal Army at Wu'an Camp.
Of course
The surrendered Zhao soldiers were already elite troops, carefully selected for battle. Their combat ability was not in question.
The next step was refining their coordination
Familiarizing them with Qin's battle formations and tactics.
However
Zhao Feng decided to retain the Zhao army's 'Hu-Style Cavalry Archery' techniques.
"The Three Treasures of Cavalry Combat."
"I know how to create them, but I won't introduce them just yet. I'll wait until the fall of Qin."
"That will be the true game-changer for cavalry warfare."
For now
Zhao Feng would continue using Zhao's Hu-style cavalry Archery to train his cavalry forces.
As for the "Three Treasures of Cavalry Warfare," it is best to keep them for later.
If they were revealed now, they might end up benefiting the remnants of the Six States when they rebel during the late Qin period.
However, Zhao Feng had no idea that at this moment, King Ying Zheng of Qin had already visited his hometown and was now with his mother.
Even more so, he was unaware that he was not an ordinary commoner, but rather the eldest prince of the royal family.
Yong City, Royal Palace!
"Zheng'er, have you been able to relax these past few days?"
As soon as Ying Zheng returned, he naturally went to pay respects to the Grand Empress Dowager Huayang.
"It has been a long time since I was able to relax like this." Ying Zheng smiled slightly, his face carrying a rare expression of ease.
"You are always busy with state affairs, so it is indeed necessary for you to take some time to rest."
"After all, you have many ministers capable of bearing heavy responsibilities." Empress Dowager Huayang said.
"Grandmother speaks wisely." Ying Zheng nodded.
She wanted him to relax, but she had no idea just how happy he truly was inside.
For years, he had longed to find A'fang.
Now, he had finally done it.
For him, this was an even greater joy than the destruction of the states of Zhao and Han.
"In a few days, it will be Grandmother's birthday."
"I will return to Xianyang after celebrating it with you." Ying Zheng smiled.
"Zheng'er, you are thoughtful." Empress Dowager Huayang was deeply moved.
Since she was elevated to the status of Empress Dowager, she initially had some ambitions, attempting to control Ying Zheng's father, Prince Yiren. However, her schemes were soon exposed.
Later, her power to act as regent was stripped away.
Yet, despite this, Ying Zheng never resented her. Instead, he treated her with great filial piety and respect, ensuring that the entire Mi clan devoted itself wholeheartedly to his service.
As time passed, after Empress Dowager Huayang's birthday had passed, Ying Zheng returned to Xianyang as scheduled.
During this time, he made a brief stop in Shachiu, but no one knew about it.
Meanwhile, far away in Yunzhong City, Zhao Feng received the news.
"You're saying that people from the Black Ice Platform entered my estate?" Zhao Feng looked at Ying Bu with a hint of concern.
"Master, this was reported by Yan Ting Wuchang, who is stationed at the estate in Shachiu to protect the madam." Ying Bu replied immediately.
"What was their purpose?"
"Do we know anything about it?" Zhao Feng asked.
"The Black Ice Platform stayed for a night and then left. The next day, the madam said it was related to Doctor Xia." Ying Bu answered again.
Hearing this, Zhao Feng nodded in realization.
"That makes sense now."
"Doctor Xia is extremely important in the eyes of the King of Qin."
"It is natural for him to send people to inquire." Zhao Feng remarked.
"Master is right."
"After staying for one night, the agents of the Black Ice Platform left without leaving anyone behind."
"However"
"It is likely that the butler and some other individuals in the estate are Black Ice Platform spies." Ying Bu added.
"The Black Ice Platform infiltrates everywhere."
"It is only natural for them to monitor the court officials."
"I command an army of 300,000 troops if there were no Black Ice Platform spies in my estate, that would be truly strange." Zhao Feng remained unfazed.
He clearly understood the meaning behind Ying Bu's words: should they eliminate these spies?
"There is no need to touch the Black Ice Platform agents in the estate. Let them remain hidden."
"Do not act against them." Zhao Feng instructed Ying Bu.
"I understand." Ying Bu respectfully complied.
"How is Yan Ting's recruitment going?" Zhao Feng asked.
"The recruitment process continues as before, but the age requirement has been lowered from twelve years to below ten."
"Yan Ting has also taken in many abandoned infants and children whose parents could no longer support them."
"These children will regard you as their savior and will never betray you." Ying Bu reported respectfully.
"I have only one condition."
"Raising them from infancy is fine, but you must not take children from their parents by force."
"No kidnapping."
"Anyone who violates this order kill them." Zhao Feng said coldly.
"I understand." Ying Bu nodded immediately.
Xianyang, Capital of Qin!
Hall of State Affairs!
"Your ministers pay respects to Your Majesty."
All the officials held their chaohu (ritual tablets) and loudly declared.
With a slight lift of his hand, Ying Zheng exuded an air of authority.
"Rise."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
The officials bowed and then took their seats.
"If you have petitions, present them. If not, the court is dismissed."
Following protocol, Zhao Gao announced.
"Your Majesty."
"A military report has arrived from Yunzhong City regarding General Zhao Feng."
"After recruiting all the surrendered troops, nearly two months have passed."
"The Wu'an Camp has now completed its initial restructuring and has begun training in the Qin battle formations."
"General Zhao Feng reports that the troops will soon be battle-ready and able to fight for Qin."
Wei Liao raised his chaohu and loudly presented his petition.
At the mention of Zhao Feng's name, a rare warmth flickered in Ying Zheng's eyes.
In the past, he had merely appreciated Zhao Feng as an outstanding junior.
But now, he regarded him as his son.
"Zhao Feng."
"I do not doubt that he will not disappoint me."
Ying Zheng smiled slightly, expressing his praise.
"With the establishment of the Wu'an Camp, Zhao territory now has a strong military presence."
"Your Majesty, it is time to recall the troops stationed at Lantian Camp."
Wang Wan stepped forward and declared loudly.
"I second this motion."
"Lantian Camp has been guarding Zhao territory for far too long it should return."
"Maintaining an army in the field, even without active campaigning, consumes far more resources than keeping them stationed in permanent camps."
Kui Zhuang immediately supported the suggestion.
Hearing this, Ying Zheng nodded.
"It is indeed time."
"How many troops from Lantian Camp are still stationed in Zhao territory?"
Wang Jian immediately responded:
"Your Majesty, currently, two main battalions remain stationed there."
The Blue Fields Camp had been stationed in Zhao territory for a long time. With no ongoing battles, Wang Jian had naturally returned.
"Does the Supreme General believe it is time to withdraw the troops and return to camp?" Ying Zheng looked at Wang Jian and asked.
"Your Majesty," Wang Jian replied immediately, "the Wu'an Camp has been established, and there are indeed too many troops in Zhao territory. The Blue Fields Camp should return to its main base."
He was adept at self-preservation.
His son-in-law was now commanding 300,000 troops stationed in Yunzhong City, while he still had 200,000 troops in Zhao territory.
Moreover, he also controlled a considerable number of logistical forces stationed at the main base.
If someone were to accuse him of hoarding military power, what would happen then?
It was clear that Wang Wan and his faction had a certain intent behind their words.
Wang Jian could easily see through it.
"In that case, let it be as the Supreme General suggests," Ying Zheng declared.
"Draft the decree withdraw the Blue Fields Camp to its main base."
Wang Wan and Kui Zhuang immediately responded, "Your Majesty is wise."
"This time, when Your Majesty traveled to Yongcheng to celebrate the birthday of Empress Dowager Huayang, Prince Fusu demonstrated great progress in handling state affairs. Many senior ministers found themselves unable to keep up with him," Wang Wan said with a smile, advocating for Fusu.
As soon as he finished speaking, another minister stepped forward.
"Prince Huhai has also shown keen insight into governance and has contributed significantly to state administration."
"We second this!" A chorus of ministers immediately voiced their support.
In an instant, the court was filled with voices praising both Fusu and Huhai.
Ying Zheng observed the scene with a calm expression, inwardly amused.
After seeing his wife again and confirming Zhao Feng's identity, he became even more certain of his plans.
As for these two incapable sons, they were now merely tools of royal authority tools to be used against each other.
By allowing their factions to fight, he ensured that no one would notice Zhao Feng.
When the court reached the peak of its clamor, Ying Zheng waved his hand.
The hall fell silent.
"Reward Prince Fusu with one hundred bolts of fine silk and ten jade ornaments."
"Reward Prince Huhai with the same one hundred bolts of fine silk and ten jade ornaments."
"Additionally, grant each a pearl-studded crown."
Ying Zheng spoke slowly.
With this decree, both were treated equally, with no distinction between them.
The court resounded with voices in unison, "Your Majesty is wise!"
"Enough."
"If there are no further matters, the court is dismissed."
"Supreme General Wang Jian and Minister Wei, come to Zhangtai Palace for a discussion."
With that, Ying Zheng scanned the court and turned to leave the hall.
"We humbly send off Your Majesty."
The ministers bowed in unison.
A short while later, in Zhangtai Palace
Wang Jian and Wei Liao stood inside the hall, waiting for Ying Zheng to speak.
"Minister Wei."
"Speak to the Supreme General."
"There are no outsiders here," Ying Zheng instructed.
"I obey," Wei Liao bowed before turning to Wang Jian with a smile.
"Your Majesty, Minister of the Lesser Treasury, is there some confidential matter?" Wang Jian asked curiously.
"Supreme General," Wei Liao said solemnly, "the Blue Fields Camp must not withdraw."
"If not withdrawn, then what should be done?" Wang Jian immediately sensed something and asked.
"Please, Supreme General, step this way."
Wei Liao smiled and gestured toward the rear hall.
At that moment
Ying Zheng had already risen and was heading toward the rear hall.
Wang Jian, now serious, followed closely behind.
Upon entering
A massive sand table map lay before them.
A map of Qin's territories was displayed.
It also depicted the lands of Qi, Chu, Yan, and Wei.
However, the territories of Zhao and Wei already bore Qin's banners.
"Today, Your Majesty issued an edict ordering the withdrawal of the Blue Fields Camp."
"But in reality"
"When the Supreme General issues the retreat order, the route should be slightly adjusted."
"The troops should be stationed in Yuci City instead."
Wei Liao pointed at a location on the map, near the former Zhao territory bordering Qi.
"To intimidate Qi?" Wang Jian immediately understood.
"There are still 200,000 troops in Zhao territory."
"Half of them, 100,000 troops, should be stationed in Yuci City to act as a deterrent, while the other 100,000 return to the main base," Wei Liao explained with a smile.
"Your Majesty is preparing to strike against Wei," Wang Jian quickly deduced.
"Indeed," Ying Zheng, who had been silent, nodded.
"It has been more than a year since Zhao's downfall, and the Wu'an Camp has been successfully established and reorganized."
"Wei has repeatedly provoked Qin, allied with Zhao, and waged war against us."
"I am not a ruler who tolerates such offenses."
"What they have done to us I shall repay them tenfold."
Ying Zheng's voice was cold, carrying an undeniable dominance.
"I am willing to take on the role of overseeing this military station," Wang Jian said respectfully.
"However"
"Which camp will be leading the expedition against Wei?" he asked.
Upon hearing this, Ying Zheng smiled.
"The Wu'an Camp is newly established. How could it not be baptized in blood?"
"Your Majesty must not do this!"
Wang Jian's expression changed instantly, and he voiced his strong opposition.
"Why not?" Ying Zheng asked with a faint smile.
"Zhao Feng has already achieved two great feats of conquest. Twice, my Blue Fields Camp participated, and twice, Zhao Feng was promoted, reaching the rank of Supreme General."
"If he leads another campaign"
"The Supreme Generals of Beijiang and Hangu Pass will surely take offense."
Wang Jian explained urgently.
He was considering Zhao Feng's position.
To be too conspicuous was dangerous.
If Zhao Feng were to provoke opposition from Meng Wu and Huan Yi and further face criticism from political figures like Wang Wan, it would be an immense disaster.
From Wang Jian's perspective
Though the King favored his son-in-law now, if one day Zhao Feng made a mistake or faced an impeachment that changed the King's mind, the consequences would be catastrophic!
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