The Myth of Daqin: The Soul of Yi Xiaochuan

The First Emperor looked at Wang Ben, Li Si, Feng Jie and the others with dignity, and slowly asked, "What are your opinions on border security?"

Everyone looked at each other in bewilderment. After a moment's silence, Feng Jie spoke first. His tone was respectful and firm: "Your Majesty, I believe that Lieutenant Meng Yi, who once led a large army to sweep through the Xiongnu royal court, has a deep understanding of the Xiongnu people and must have some good suggestions." After saying that, he bowed slightly, waiting for the First Emperor's response.

Meng Yi stepped out, bowed, and spoke loudly, "Your Majesty, the Xiongnu have been repelled by our army and will not attack again in the short term. However, we must guard against their resurgence. I believe that we should first strengthen the city's defenses. Secondly, we should train our troops to be prepared for any emergency. Finally, we should strengthen our understanding of the northern nomadic peoples and learn their tactics and strategies. As the saying goes, knowing yourself and your enemy ensures victory in every battle. At the same time, we must continuously improve our army's weapons and equipment to enhance the soldiers' combat effectiveness."

Meng Yi thought to himself, "Why is Feng Jie targeting me at every turn? Could it be that the Feng family is collaborating with Zhao Gao?"

At this time, the First Emperor nodded slightly, his face filled with joy. "It is a good saying that knowing oneself and the enemy will ensure victory in every battle. Your words are very good. I will immediately issue the order and execute it accordingly."

Feng Jie bowed and said, "Your Majesty is wise. However, although the Xiongnu have retreated, the threat remains. I propose sending envoys to the nations of the Western Regions to unite against the enemy and build a joint defense line."

Zhao Gao echoed, "Your Majesty, Censor Feng's plan is excellent. If we can form an alliance with the nations of the Western Regions, it will greatly increase the strength of our Great Qin."

The First Emperor frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and said, "This method is feasible. However, we must select a capable person to carry out this task."

Feng Jie bowed and said, "Your Majesty, I have a candidate who is very suitable!"

The First Emperor was surprised and asked, "Oh? Please tell me, Mr. Feng!"

Feng Jie continued, "I believe Lieutenant Meng can take on this important task. Lieutenant Meng is a master of martial arts and outstanding literary talent, making him the perfect choice."

Li Si was shocked, his brows furrowed, and a thin layer of sweat broke out on his forehead. He never thought that Feng Jie would recommend Meng Yi to go on a diplomatic mission to the Western Regions.

This was an extremely difficult task, not only requiring a long journey and a harsh environment, but also navigating the complex and ever-changing dynamics of the various states in the Western Regions. If Meng Yi truly left the court, he would lose a crucial ally. If the Feng family and Zhao Gao united, he would likely be left isolated and helpless.

Li Si quickly said, "Your Majesty, although Lieutenant Meng is young and promising, he lacks sufficient experience and experience to shoulder such a heavy responsibility. Furthermore, the journey to the Western Regions is long and the climate harsh. Furthermore, the countries in the Western Regions have complex national conditions and varying customs. If we send Meng Yi, I am concerned that he will not be able to properly handle the various issues, and may even cause diplomatic disputes, affecting the reputation and interests of the Great Qin."

Meng Yi looked at Li Si, his heart filled with gratitude. He secretly felt fortunate that his cheap uncle was truly a trustworthy person, always standing up to defend him without hesitation at critical moments.

Seeing the situation was unfavorable to him, Zhao Gao quickly agreed, "Your Majesty, I also think what Censor Feng said makes sense. Lieutenant Meng is talented and capable, and he will undoubtedly complete the task with flying colors."

The First Emperor waved his hand, quelling the argument. He turned and looked at Wang Ben, asking, "Marquis Tongwu, do you have any opinion on this matter?"

Wang Ben replied respectfully, "Your Majesty, I consider this matter extremely important. Lieutenant Meng shoulders the arduous task of defending Xianyang, a responsibility of immense importance. Furthermore, the Xiongnu have suffered a severe blow this time, and will only be able to survive for a short period of time, making it difficult for them to wage war again. Therefore, it would be wise to wait until Your Majesty returns to Xianyang after your eastern tour before making further plans."

The First Emperor nodded slightly, agreeing with Wang Ben's point of view. He then said, "Marquis Tongwu's words make perfect sense. Let's make this decision for now. After I return from my eastern tour, we'll discuss in detail how to deal with the Xiongnu!"

All the ministers shouted in unison: "Your Majesty is wise!"

After the First Emperor left, Li Si walked over to Meng Yi, patted him on the shoulder, and whispered, "Nephew, this incident was only alleviated thanks to the help of Marquis Tongwu."

Meng Yi nodded, looked at Li Si with gratitude and said, "Thank you for your care, uncle. I will definitely keep it in mind. I will be doubly careful in the future and will not slack off in the slightest."

Li Si nodded, approving of his attitude, and said earnestly, "You and I are like uncle and nephew. There's no need for excessive formalities. If you encounter difficulties in the future, you can always come to me."

After saying that, the two of them left the palace side by side.

After leaving the palace, Li Si and Meng Yi walked together.

Li Si asked Meng Yi softly, "My dear nephew, what do you think of Marquis Tongwu?" His voice was low and gentle.

Meng Yi pondered for a while, then said slowly: "Marquis Tongwu must have a deep meaning for pleading for me today." His eyes were firm and deep, revealing a keen insight.

Li Si nodded slightly in agreement: "Yes, the profound meaning of what Tongwu Hou did is very clear." His tone was filled with a hint of appreciation and relief.

Meng Yi secretly wondered, was Wang Ben doing this because he had some intention towards him, or was it simply out of loyalty to Qin Shi Huang, without any other personal feelings involved?

Li Si seemed to see through Meng Yi's thoughts. He gently patted his shoulder and said comfortingly, "Don't worry, my dear nephew. The Marquis of Tongwu's plea for you today may be a recognition and appreciation of your talent."

Meng Yi nodded gratefully and said, "Thank you for your guidance, uncle."

After that, the two of them left, leaving behind a moment of silence and thought.

After the discussion, the First Emperor slowly stood up, walked out of the palace, and headed toward the city wall. His steps were steady and powerful, and each step seemed to carry the weight of his responsibility and commitment to the world.

Climbing the city wall, the First Emperor gazed across the vast land, toward the distant mountains and vast grasslands. There, vibrant and vibrant, yet also concealing endless unknowns and challenges. A wave of emotion welled up in the First Emperor's heart. This land, this empire, was a heavy responsibility he shouldered.

The First Emperor gazed quietly at the distant city walls and fortifications. His gaze was firm and profound, as if he could see through time and space, gazing upon the possibilities of the future. At this moment, his heart was filled with confidence and determination, convinced that the Qin Empire would flourish under his leadership.

After staying in Yuyang for a few days, the First Emperor decided to continue his eastern tour and head towards his next destination, Jieshi.

When he was about to leave Yuyang, the First Emperor once again instructed the county governor, the county lieutenant and others to strengthen border defense and remain vigilant at all times to guard against the invasion of the Huns.

As the northern gateway to the Qin Empire, Yuyang's importance is self-evident. Only by ensuring peace on the border can the people live and work in peace and the country prosper.

"I believe that you have the ability to protect Yuyang and the borders of the Qin Dynasty." The First Emperor's voice was low and firm, and his eyes swept over everyone present.

The county magistrate, county lieutenant and other officials knelt on the ground to receive the order and responded in unison: "Your Majesty, rest assured, we will live up to our mission!" Their eyes were full of loyalty and determination.

The First Emperor nodded with satisfaction, a hint of relief in his eyes.

The First Emperor turned and left the palace, boarded the carriage that had been waiting outside, and continued his tour to the east.

The wheels rolled, raising a cloud of dust, like a giant dragon winding its way forward. The convoy gradually receded into the distance, leaving behind the determined backs of the Yuyang County Magistrate and his generals.