The Myth of Daqin: The Soul of Yi Xiaochuan

After returning to his mansion, Zhao Gao did not act in a hurry, but pondered for a long time and thought through the entire plan before taking action.

Zhao Gao called Zhao Cheng and asked him to enter the secret room, then closed the doors and windows to ensure that no one could hear their conversation.

The secret room was dimly lit. Zhao Gao sat on an old wooden chair, a dark red curtain behind him blocking out the light from the window. His eyes gleamed coldly, like stars in the night sky. Zhao Gao whispered to Zhao Cheng, "Brother, some people in Xianyang City have been making moves recently, attempting to persuade Your Majesty to grant the enfeoffment. This matter is of great importance and must not be taken lightly!"

Zhao Cheng frowned slightly, already understanding what Zhao Gao was referring to. He stood before Zhao Gao, his arms folded across his chest, his expression serious. He nodded and replied gravely, "Brother, I've heard this as well. From what I understand, Confucian scholars like Chunyu Yue and some members of the Juxian Hall seem to go every few days to implore Prince Fusu to speak to His Majesty and request the approval of the feudal system."

A sinister look flashed in Zhao Gao's eyes, and the corners of his mouth curled up slightly. He said sinisterly: "If that's the case, then we can secretly add fuel to the fire and make this matter even more difficult."

Zhao Cheng looked at Zhao Gao respectfully. He knew his brother was a meticulous and ruthless man. He whispered, "Brother, what are your specific plans?"

Zhao Gao chuckled softly, a hint of pride in his voice. "Since these people want to promote the feudal system, let us lend a hand. Arrange our people to stir up the atmosphere in the court and get more ministers to support the feudal system. If the situation gets out of control, Your Majesty will surely intervene to suppress it. By then, even Prince Fusu will be unable to remain unaffected."

After hearing what Zhao Gao said, Zhao Cheng's face was filled with admiration. He praised him sincerely, "Brother, you are truly wise! This way, you can not only stir up trouble, but also put Prince Fusu in a difficult position."

Zhao Gao smiled slightly, a cunning glint in his eyes. "This is just the first step. There are more exciting things waiting for them next."

After saying this, he patted Zhao Cheng on the shoulder and said, "Second brother, I'm glad you understand. We need to proceed with caution in this matter. We can't let anyone find out that we are acting in secret."

Zhao Cheng nodded solemnly and said, "Don't worry, brother. I will handle it carefully."

The two men smiled at each other, their eyes revealing the pride of their conspiracy succeeding.

However, the people in the Juxian Hall and the Confucian scholars knew nothing about all this. They were immersed in their own ideal world and were completely unaware of the impending crisis.

They continued to incite Fusu, trying to get him to submit a petition requesting a fiefdom to realize their political ambitions.

"Sir, you should stand up and speak to His Majesty, demanding the restoration of the feudal system!" The speaker was a young Confucian scholar. He stared at Fusu with a sharp gaze and spoke in a firm tone. Others echoed his views, expressing their support for the Confucian scholar.

Fusu frowned, lost in thought. He was fully aware of the scholars' thoughts, but he also understood the potential consequences of such an approach. Deep down, he held his own unique views on the feudal system, but faced with the public's expectations, he felt torn.

At this moment, another Confucian scholar stood up and said passionately, "Sir, we are all concerned about the future of the Qin Empire. The feudal system can better govern the country and prevent excessive concentration of power. If you are willing to step forward, you will surely be able to persuade His Majesty to change his mind!"

Fusu could not help but sigh after hearing this. He knew that these Confucian scholars wanted to restore the feudal system in order to realize their ideal society.

But he knew better than to say that if he really did what they said, it would probably trigger a greater upheaval. However, facing this group of Confucian scholars full of enthusiasm and ideals, how should he choose?

One day, Hu Hai came to the bedroom of the First Emperor, saluted with emotion and said, "Father, I see that you look tired. Please take care of your health!" The First Emperor looked at his filial son and his heart softened. He patted Hu Hai on the shoulder.

Hu Hai continued, "Father, I have heard that deep within Mount Zhongnan lies a group of alchemists. They live in isolation, practicing mysterious magic. They forage for precious herbs and minerals in the mountains, then make elixirs for consumption. These elixirs are said to possess miraculous properties, prolonging life and bringing new life."

When the First Emperor heard this, he was surprised and asked, "Is this true?"

Hu Hai nodded quickly and said, "Every word I said is true. This is the news I have painstakingly obtained."

After saying this, Hu Hai knelt and said, "Father, I beg your permission to go to Mount Zhongnan to seek the elixir of immortality and return to present it to you."

After hearing this, the First Emperor's eyes flashed with a trace of comfort, but he still shook his head and said, "Nonsense, how can such a legend be believed?"

Hu Hai said with a firm face: "Father, I am willing to guarantee with my life that I will find the elixir of immortality this time."

The First Emperor was silent for a moment, and finally nodded and agreed to Hu Hai's request.

Hu Hai looked at Qin Shihuang sincerely, his eyes full of awe and loyalty to his father.

He kowtowed hurriedly and said, "Father, I believe this matter is of great importance. We should rather believe it than not. If there really is an elixir of immortality in Zhongnan Mountain, then it will bring you endless blessings. I am willing to go and search for it myself. If I can really find the elixir, wouldn't it be a great achievement?"

The First Emperor listened to Hu Hai's words and fell into deep thought. He knew Hu Hai was right, and faced with his son's earnest request, he couldn't help but feel a little moved. After some thought, the First Emperor finally nodded in agreement.

Hu Hai was secretly delighted, but he remained calm. He then respectfully saluted the First Emperor and expressed his commitment to fulfilling his mission.

Afterwards, after Hu Hai returned to his residence from the palace, he had a secret conversation with Zhao Gao.

"Sir, in my opinion, we should send Zhao Cheng to accompany you," Zhao Gao suggested.

Hu Hai nodded in agreement: "Well, that's very good."

"In addition, you must leave Xianyang City quietly and never let others know our whereabouts. Otherwise, some villains may create trouble and hinder your plan." Zhao Gao reminded cautiously.

"Okay, teacher, I'll do as you say!" Hu Hai responded decisively.

The two of them carefully discussed every detail to ensure that everything was foolproof.

Then, Hu Hai and Zhao Cheng prepared to set off. They dressed in ordinary clothes and led a group of loyal confidants, leaving Xianyang quietly.

Along the way, they avoided the crowds and tried not to attract attention.

Zhao Gao had already made plans. Even if there were no alchemists in Zhongnan Mountain, he could capture one from other places. Besides, it was not difficult to refine elixirs that could boost people's spirits.

This time, he wanted to make good use of this opportunity to gain more benefits for himself. He was secretly proud of himself, thinking that this opportunity came at the right time and he must seize it firmly.

His heart was full of ambition and greed, and he longed for a higher position and more power.

In his mind, refining elixirs was just a means to an end; his real goal was his own personal gain. He wanted Hu Hai to become more dependent on him, and only if Hu Hai ascended to a high position could his position become more secure. He wanted to use this opportunity to gain more benefits for himself and expand his power and wealth.