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墨書 Inktalez
The letter in the middle-aged man's hand was a message delivered by Wei Wujie via carrier pigeon. The content mentioned that the bandit leader had been executed, and the bandits had scattered like birds and beasts. Due to the humid and sultry weather in the south, the severed head of the bandit leader might not be presentable. A special person had been assigned to ensure the swift delivery along the route, and it was believed that it would arrive soon.
Concerned that some information might be compromised during transmission due to unforeseen circumstances, no names were mentioned in the content. If it was a one-sided communication, codenames would be used for important targets. Those on their side would understand the content at a glance, while outsiders would be left puzzled. Naturally, everyone present knew who the so-called bandit leader referred to.
The middle-aged man did not intend to read the letter again, as he had already gone through it several times. He lifted the teapot to let the flames rise and casually tossed the letter into the fire. The flames were initially subdued but quickly flared up. Watching the contents of the letter turn to ash, he then placed the teapot back down. This was evidence that could cost lives! Leaving it behind would only sow seeds of disaster!
Standing behind the middle-aged man was a tall, thin man who quietly observed as the fire in the stove gradually returned to normal. He walked over, picked up the teapot, and poured water into an empty bowl, then offered one bowl to the middle-aged man with both hands. He spoke softly, "Your Highness! Could there be a deception in what Wei Wujie mentioned about it being unpresentable?"
The term "unpresentable" here referred to issues of decay. If it were winter, it wouldn't be a problem since cold weather prevents spoilage; even long-distance transport would be manageable. However, now that it was warm, three days would be pushing it to ensure freshness. Ancient people often used quicklime for preservation to combat this natural phenomenon. By utilizing quicklime's drying properties, they could keep buried objects from deteriorating.
The implication of being "unpresentable" naturally indicated that during transportation and preservation, unforeseen errors could lead to decay. In other words, this unique piece of evidence confirming someone's identity was slowly becoming ineffective. After a long journey, it would be lucky if only a skull remained. People judge based on appearances; what could one discern from mere bones?
The prince took the bowl of tea and shook his head without speaking. The person handing him tea was his strategist who had followed him for many years. The promised high position could only be inherited; unexpectedly, twenty years had passed. His unwavering loyalty was indeed rare! At this moment, white hairs had begun to appear at the strategist's temples, making one lament the harshness of time and life's transience.
Waiting for another ten thousand years was too long! The prince raised his head and drank from the bowl of tea before placing it on the tea table. "Hmm! Given the current situation, we have no choice but to proceed this way! I believe Xingling Jun is a loyal person and not a scoundrel without integrity. Moreover, he has many capable people under him; even if that person is clever, he cannot deceive so many."
Whether or not he was a scoundrel aside, Xingling Jun's number of subordinates could be disregarded. The key issue was that he was truly facing off against Lu Ziquan! Even if it was heard that this person had died, without seeing it with his own eyes, certainty could not be established! Unless they saw the actual head itself, doubts would remain! But how could such words be spoken? Was this doubting the prince's judgment? The strategist nodded in agreement that this matter could temporarily be trusted. In truth, he understood well that few truly knew Luzi. To confirm whether it was indeed him would require bringing someone close to Luzi for verification. Otherwise, even if a well-preserved head were brought later on, outsiders could only respond with "it seems like."
This person had followed for too long; seeing uncertainty on his face made the prince aware of his concerns. He asked, "Zhiyuan! Do you have any thoughts on this? Are you planning to find someone familiar with him for confirmation?"
Upon hearing the prince's question, the strategist quickly waved his hand to indicate he had no thoughts on that matter. Find someone close to Luzi!? Was that even possible? Even His Highness sitting across from him might not have seen Luzi himself; let alone those who had been by Luzi's side for years! In fact, it wasn't impossible to find someone to ask; King Zhao of Qin knew quite well about this person! However, going to inquire with him? That would simply be asking for trouble!
The prince clearly did not intend to hear any grand strategies; after all, some things should not be said lightly. After pondering for a moment, he asked, "The letter mentions that the bandits have scattered and will gradually return home afterward. You should send someone now to notify our undercover agents among various generals and ministers' households to keep an eye out for any children returning home recently. If anyone is found injured, they must report immediately!"
Hearing this, the strategist raised his hand to wipe the sweat from his forehead. You are still just a crown prince; the old man has not yet passed away, and you dare to act so recklessly. Those generals and ministers have all contributed to the State, and just thinking about the complicated relationships makes one’s head ache. Capturing someone else's child for no reason is simply courting death! This matter must not be done! It seems we should hold off on confirming Luzi's identity for now. After making up his mind, he explained the relationships involved to the crown prince.
"Your Highness! The reason we are undertaking such a significant action behind the old man's back is due to the news of his serious illness coming from within the palace. Even if the old man were to pass away immediately, you will still need the support of many ministers after you ascend to the throne. Besides, they are all the foundation of our Qin State; we cannot afford to offend them."
The crown prince was no longer a young man; after years of waiting, he had honed his patience to a remarkable degree. Hearing these words, he nodded slightly. "What do you mean?"
The strategist quickly bowed and offered his advice: "In such a critical moment, we must not only refrain from acting against anyone but also grant generous rewards. To win people's hearts is to win the world; how can we win their hearts? Of course, Your Highness, your vast and inclusive heart is enough to embrace the entire realm. Only in this way will the ministers not be anxious. If Your Highness demonstrates your care through concrete actions, they will naturally rally around you."
The Wei Kingdom's Wu Ji has already captured and killed the traitor; without the Great Banner, can they still rebel? It seems there is no other choice! The crown prince let out a long breath, rising to walk into the courtyard and gazing at the gray sky outside. He silently thought: "Luzi! Do not blame me for being heartless! You are also a wise person and naturally know that since ancient times, it has always been one emperor and one set of ministers. Since the old fellow is nearing his end, as his trusted minister, you should follow him as well. It's just a few days early; it makes no difference! When your head returns to the country, I will have my Imperial Command prepare a golden statue for you. At that time, you can be buried in front of that old fossil's tomb; it will save you from loneliness."
Seeing the crown prince mumbling softly in the courtyard, the strategist stood at the door and gently shook his head. With a soft sigh, he turned and went back inside. The spirits are to be respected, but as part of the Royal Family, one should also have some discretion. If matters are handled this way every time, it may not be a good thing!
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