Mythical Qin: I, Gao Yao, will never be a eunuch!

Chapter 1030 The Changes at Mount Li Worry Han Xin!

For nearly thirty days and nights, in the darkness, without food or water, what were the chances of survival? Han Xin dared not think about it, yet he couldn't help but ponder it. As the commander-in-chief, he understood better than anyone the cruel meaning of time in such dire circumstances. He still did not order a retreat; the craftsmen and soldiers continued working in shifts, but it was more like a ritual, a steadfast adherence to the duty between ruler and subject, an expectation of a slim chance of miracle. Deep within Han Xin's heart, a rational yet cold voice almost proclaimed: Your Majesty, I fear your fate is sealed.

This near-desperate realization entwined him like vines, giving rise to a more realistic and pressing question: if Gao Yao were truly gone, what would become of Han Xin, this powerful general who held immense authority and commanded a large army? Even from his distant Mount Li, he could feel the oppressive undercurrents within Xianyang, the impending storm brewing. He wasn't unaware of the power struggles among the princes, but he deliberately maintained his distance.

Unlike civil officials like Xiao He and Cao Can, who held positions in the central government and had extensive connections with various princes, Han Xin spent most of his life on the battlefield. His glory and power stemmed from Gao Yao's unwavering trust and his numerous thrilling campaigns. He was like a sharp sword drawn from its sheath, ready to drink blood, invincible wherever it pointed, yet he rarely had the opportunity, nor the inclination, to cultivate the intricate relationships within the court.

He had only met Gao Lin, Gao Zhe, and Gao Ning a few times at grand court assemblies, exchanging a few formulaic questions and answers according to protocol. Privately, they had almost no interaction. There was no favoritism, no conflict, and naturally, no closeness or factionalism whatsoever. This detached position had once been a manifestation of Gao Yao's absolute trust in him, and a guarantee that allowed him to focus on military affairs. However, once that sole source of trust dried up, this "lack of closeness" immediately transformed into dangerous "isolation."

"General, it is getting late, you should rest early."

A steady voice interrupted his thoughts. It was Feng Gu, his personal bodyguard leader, who silently entered the tent carrying a bowl of lukewarm soup. Feng Gu was about thirty years old, with a resolute face and sharp, eagle-like eyes. His dusty military uniform could not conceal the capable air forged in the crucible of battle. He was a trusted confidant whom Han Xin had personally promoted. In eight years, he had risen from an ordinary soldier to the commander of this absolutely loyal personal guard. Every scar, large and small, on his body was a testament to his service in protecting Han Xin.

Han Xin rubbed his furrowed brows, not touching the bowl of soup, but habitually asked, "Feng Gu, how is the progress today?" Although he already knew the answer, he couldn't help but ask again, as if asking once more might bring a glimmer of hope.

“Reporting to the General,” Feng Gu’s voice was deep and clear, “...less than three feet.”

A long, heavy sigh finally escaped from Han Xin's chest. This sigh contained so much helplessness and sorrow.

Seeing his commander's expression, Feng Gu's face flashed with a hint of struggle. Then, he made a surprising move. With a "thud," he knelt heavily before Han Xin and bowed deeply.

"Feng Gu, why are you doing this?" Han Xin asked in surprise, taken aback. Feng Gu was his most trusted confidant, and although he was not particular about formalities in private, it was extremely rare for him to perform such a solemn ceremony.

"General!" Feng Gu raised his head, his gaze fixed on Han Xin, his tone resolute and determined. "I have followed you for over eight years, and I am deeply grateful for your kindness in selecting me from the ranks to serve by your side. There are some things I know are taboo, but for your sake, General, I must speak them! Now, the King's safety is... I'm afraid..."

"Shut up!" Han Xin's expression changed drastically. He slammed his hand on the table, stood up abruptly, and his eyes blazed with anger. "As long as I haven't seen the King, I demand to see him alive or dead! If you dare to utter any more curses, don't blame me for disregarding our past relationship and punishing you according to military law!"

Han Xin's feelings for Gao Yao went far beyond the simple relationship between ruler and subject. It was a complex emotion that blended gratitude for being saved, for being recognized, and for being nurtured. He still clearly remembered that when he was down on his luck, starving and freezing, and suffering scorn for a meal, it was Gao Yao, who was only ten years older than him, who extended a helping hand to him like an elder brother.

He not only provided him with food and clothing, but also dignity and hope. It was Gao Yao who discovered his hidden military talent, overruling objections to promote him from an unknown soldier to a general, granting him military power and allowing him to realize his ambitions. Gao Yao's trust in him sometimes even surpassed that for his own children. This kindness was as heavy as a mountain. In his heart, Gao Yao was not only a king, but also a benefactor, the only person who changed his destiny. He would never tolerate anyone, not even his closest subordinates, showing the slightest disrespect to Gao Yao.

"General!" Feng Gu was not intimidated by Han Xin's anger. Instead, he straightened his back and his voice became even more firm. "My life was saved by you, General, from the pile of dead bodies on the battlefield! Everything I have today is thanks to Your Majesty's kindness! I have no intention of disrespecting Your Majesty. If I had even the slightest disrespect, may I be struck down by heaven and earth! But today, even if you take my life in your rage, General, please listen to my heartfelt words!"

Han Xin's chest heaved violently, his hand already on the hilt of his sword, veins bulging. He stared intently at Feng Gu, at this loyal servant who had shielded him from swords and was covered in wounds, but his killing intent ultimately failed to fully materialize. He knew Feng Gu; this man was by no means a coward or a troublemaker. His willingness to risk his life to speak out must have an extremely important reason.

"...You say it!" Han Xin squeezed out two words through gritted teeth, his hand on the sword hilt trembling slightly, but he eventually slowly let go.

Feng Gu took a deep breath, quickened his pace, and became increasingly sharp: "General, you are wise! The situation in Xianyang is already extremely volatile! Whether you want to hear it or believe it or not, the fact is that everyone, from high-ranking officials to local officials, is secretly discussing and weighing the options, debating which prince should inherit the throne! This is a matter concerning the very foundation of the nation. As a pillar of the country, holding significant military power, how can you remain uninvolved and without any worries?"

"Hmph!" Han Xin snorted coldly, forcing himself to remain calm. "Such a major matter will be overseen by Prime Minister Xiao He and decided by the Queen. I, Han Xin, only need to perform my duties diligently and complete the rescue mission for the King!" He deliberately avoided the worst possibility.