The Myth of Daqin: The Soul of Yi Xiaochuan

The next morning, before the sun rose, Meng Yi mounted his horse and followed closely behind Meng Tian to the camp in the north of Jiuyuan.

At the same time, Lu Su also stayed at home with her sister-in-law. Yu Shu was very happy to have such a considerate brother-in-law at home.

After the Lunar New Year, King Tuan returned to the tribe with his people, and Meng Tian usually only returned home at night. During the day, she was often alone with nothing to do, but Lü Su's arrival just happened to bring her company.

Lu Su and Yu Shu talked about everything in the world and shared their cooking experiences. They got along very well.

Meanwhile, in the northern camp, Meng Yi was discussing military matters with Meng Tian. Watching his brother, Meng Tian found him becoming increasingly mature and steady, and he felt deeply gratified.

Meng Tian said, "According to the news from Xianyang, His Majesty has issued an edict, deciding to begin the northern tour in early May. This trip will depart directly from Xianyang, cross the Hetao region, and go straight to Jiuyuan outside the Great Wall."

Meng Yi pondered for a moment before responding, "Brother, it's already the beginning of April. Your Majesty, are you here to inspect the progress of the Great Wall construction?"

Meng Tian's face was solemn as he spoke in a deep voice, "This is only one of the reasons. Secondly, some Confucian scholars and important officials in the court have always opposed the construction of the Great Wall, believing it to be a waste of money and manpower. Furthermore, some believe that troops should not be stationed in Jiuyuan, lest a conflict with the Xiongnu be triggered, potentially leading to a major war. Your Majesty's mission is precisely to silence these people. Jiuyuan is the gateway north of Xianyang. To defend this place is to defend the foundation of the Qin Dynasty!"

Meng Yi nodded slightly, expressing his understanding, and then asked, "Are there any other reasons?"

Meng Tian continued, "Third, Your Majesty plans to build a 'straight road' from Jiuyuan all the way to Yunyang near Xianyang, a total distance of 1,800 miles. Furthermore, a main 'straight road' connecting to Yunzhong and Yanmen will need to be opened in Hedong, following the Fen River, passing through Jinyang, Pingyang, Anyi, and other places, crossing the Pujin 'river bridge', and finally reaching Yunyang. Your Majesty needs to personally inspect it before formulating a detailed plan."

Meng Yi roared indignantly, "These Confucian scholars spew wild words all day long, full of talk of benevolence, righteousness, and morality! The Xiongnu are a barbarian land, not of the same race as our Great Qin. Their minds must be treacherous and unpredictable. They invade the south every year, as ferocious as hungry wolves pouncing on their prey. The people of our Great Qin have suffered endless hardships as a result, and countless families have been torn apart! We really should move these ministers to live in the north, so that they can witness the cruelty of the Xiongnu!"

Meng Tian gently patted Meng Yi's shoulder and said with emotion, "Brother Yi, I'm deeply pleased that you have such thoughts. For the Xiongnu, making peace with them is futile. Only by completely intimidating them with force can we prevent them from taking any rash actions."

Meng Yi exclaimed with admiration, "Your Majesty is truly an extraordinary man! He has far-sighted vision and exceptional insight. The construction of this straight road and river bridge will create an incredibly strong bond between Guanzhong, the Hetao region, and the Hedong region. It will greatly strengthen connections between these regions and further consolidate the stability of the northern region."

Meng Tian looked at Meng Yi with a determined look, "Brother Yi, no matter what happens in the court, we must protect Jiuyuan and the people of the Great Qin, and live up to the trust of His Majesty!"

Meng Yi nodded.

Then, Meng Tian added: "But the most important thing at the moment is to make preparations to welcome His Majesty's northern tour."

"I understand," Meng Yi replied after a moment's thought. "I will immediately dispatch additional personnel to patrol the area along Jiuyuanzhishang Commandery to ensure the safety of the northern patrol route. I will also arrange food and lodging for Your Majesty in advance."

Meng Tian said in a deep voice, "Send the order, tell the commanders of each camp to gather at the main tent immediately."

A moment later, Meng Yuan, Bai Lin, Sima Yan, Li You and others rushed to the main tent.

Meng Tian looked at the crowd and said firmly, "Your Majesty plans to tour the northern region of Jiuyuan in May. We must make full preparations to ensure His Majesty's personal safety and the smooth progress of the northern tour."

His voice echoed in the tent, carrying a heavy sense of mission. Everyone's eyes were focused on him, with serious and focused expressions.

Meng Tian went on to emphasize: "This northern tour is of extraordinary significance. It not only concerns the prestige of our army, but also the dignity of our country. You must all be highly alert and must not slack off in the slightest." His eyes were as sharp as an eagle, scanning everyone, as if he wanted to see through their eyes to see their inner determination.

"I obey your command!" The four of them responded in unison, their voices uniform and full of firm conviction.

"Let General Meng Yi be in charge of the specific matters." Meng Tian turned to look at Meng Yi, his eyes full of trust and expectation.

Meng Yi nodded and began to give orders in an orderly manner: "General Meng Yuan, please lead your troops to assume the important task of maintaining the security and defense of Jiuyuan City. General Li You, please lead your troops to garrison the key areas of Yinshan Mountain and strictly guard against possible surprise attacks by the Xiongnu. General Sima Yan, please send personnel to inspect the various camps in the northern Jiuyuan area and even Shangjun. As for General Bai Lin, he will be responsible for the overall coordination of logistics support. I wonder if you generals are clear about your mission?"

"Yes, sir!" The four generals responded in unison, their voices revealing firmness and courage.

When Meng Yi finished assigning the tasks, he immediately turned around, faced Meng Tian, ​​and asked respectfully, "Brother, if you have any other arrangements or instructions, please let me know."

Meng Tian nodded slightly, a flicker of satisfaction in his eyes. He patted Meng Yi on the shoulder and said earnestly, "Meng Yi, this northern tour is crucial, and the burden on your shoulders is not light. But I believe in your ability and wisdom, and you will be able to arrange everything properly. If you encounter any difficulties, please report to me at any time."

Meng Yi straightened up and replied solemnly, "Don't worry, brother. I will do my best to fulfill my mission!"

After saying this, the four generals turned and left. Their steps were firm and powerful, and their figures quickly disappeared outside the tent.

Meng Tian showed a look of satisfaction and nodded slightly in response, "Yes. Then issue another military order, ordering all soldiers to further strengthen training, maintain a state of combat readiness at all times, and await deployment instructions. Your Majesty's northern tour is of great importance and cannot afford any mistakes. We must devote all our efforts to ensure that nothing goes wrong."

Meng Yi clasped his fists in greeting, solemnly accepting the order and saying, "I will do it immediately."

Before he finished speaking, he walked out of the tent like an arrow.

Meng Tian stood alone in his tent, his hands clasped behind his back, his gaze piercing the distant Yinshan Mountains, his mind swirling with thoughts. He deeply grasped the extraordinary significance of this northern tour, yet also felt the weight of the responsibility he shouldered. He vowed to protect His Majesty's safety and safeguard the stability and prosperity of the Qin Empire.