In this era that values trustworthiness above all, living and dying together is absolutely not just an empty phrase—only the most loyal retainers would dare to say such words.

Chapter 008: How Did It Come to This

“I followed your instructions and told your strategy to the general of Qin, but up to now, your plan still hasn’t had any effect. Why is that?” Edward Young looked at Benjamin Lee, who was kneeling before him, and asked in confusion. Benjamin Lee could hear the questioning tone, but was unfazed. Smiling, he said, “I had Steven Hill recommend Charles Clark to the King of Zhao only so that the king would remember there is such a young man as Charles Clark.”

“The current state of the war hasn’t reached a crisis that would make the King of Zhao panic. If the king were as desperate as a drowning man, wouldn’t he grasp at Charles Clark as a life-saving straw?” Benjamin Lee countered.

Edward Young nodded, feeling that Benjamin Lee made a lot of sense. He asked again, “Then what should I do next?”

Benjamin Lee smiled and said, “The matter of Charles Clark is just a trivial issue for you, my lord. The reason I had you bring it up was to remind the people of Qin that there is still a prince like you. The King of Qin is already old, and your father, Lord Anguo, has been made crown prince. Lord Anguo currently favors your brother Zixie, and Zixie’s mother is there to support him in the harem. You are in the middle in terms of birth order, and your mother is not favored. After the King of Qin dies and Lord Anguo ascends the throne, you shouldn’t expect to compete for the position of crown prince against your eldest brother and the other brothers who are always by the king’s side.”

“You yourself are in the unpredictable land of Zhao. If the Qin people defeat Zhao and besiege Handan, do you think the King of Zhao will spare your life?”

Edward Young was greatly alarmed and asked, “If that’s the case, what should I do?”

“If you are willing to trust me, then please stay in Handan, wear Chu attire, and make more friends.”

“Why is that?”

“I’ve heard privately that Lord Anguo is very fond of Lady Huayang. Lady Huayang has no children, but she can participate in the selection of the crown prince, so we must work through her. You are poor and living as a guest here, and have nothing to offer your elders or to win over guests. I, Benjamin Lee, though not wealthy, am willing to offer a thousand gold pieces to travel west to Qin on your behalf, to serve Lord Anguo and Lady Huayang, and persuade them to make you the crown prince.”

Upon hearing this, Edward Young hurriedly bowed deeply to Benjamin Lee and said respectfully, “If your plan succeeds, I am willing to share the land of Qin with you.”

Benjamin Lee said nothing more, got up, and took his leave from Edward Young. Edward escorted him to the door, then grasped his hand and repeatedly exhorted, “More than the success of this matter, I care about your safety. I hope you return safely—please do not take risks because of this.” Even though he knew in his heart that Edward Young was just trying to win him over, Benjamin Lee was still somewhat moved.

He truly had chosen the right person. Edward was not afraid of danger and was willing to stay alone in Handan, unconcerned for his own safety, yet still worried for him. Benjamin Lee’s expression gradually became solemn, and he said gravely, “On this trip, I will definitely accomplish this for you, my lord. If I fail, I am willing to die.” Edward Young stood at the door, watching as Benjamin Lee’s carriage slowly departed. He stood at the entrance for a long time before finally returning to the courtyard.

He summoned a household retainer, and Edward Young instructed, “Please buy me a set of Chu attire.” The retainer accepted the order and left. As for why he needed to wear Chu clothing, it was because Lady Huayang was from Chu, and she always wore Chu attire, often expressing her longing for her homeland. Standing in the courtyard, Edward Young muttered helplessly, “I’ll have to learn that ‘bird language’ of Chu as well—what a hassle…”

At this moment, Steven Hill was once again meeting with the King of Zhao.

The King of Zhao sat in the seat of honor, with his two chief ministers on his left. Steven Hill sat to his right and solemnly said, “This is the story of Zeng’s mother losing her shuttle. I hope Your Majesty can discern rumors and trust General Lian Po.” The King of Zhao was silent for a long time. He raised his head, carefully scrutinized Steven Hill before him, and said with emotion, “I had only thought that Steven Hill was capable in battle. I did not expect that I had underestimated Steven.”

Steven Hill looked a bit embarrassed, but he remembered Charles Clark’s instructions and said nothing more. He sighed deeply and said, “I say this not to seek credit before Your Majesty, but for the sake of General Lian Po.” The King of Zhao laughed heartily and said, “I understand. Please rest assured—I will not listen to rumors.”

Only then did Steven Hill rise, bow deeply to the King of Zhao, and carefully take his leave from the palace.

After he left, the King of Zhao turned to the two men on his left and asked, “These are not words that Steven Hill could have come up with himself. May I ask who taught him this?” At this moment, two elders were seated to his right. Both were not young; one was tall and thin, with a cold expression, sitting upright with half-closed eyes, while the other was constantly coughing, making the King of Zhao feel a bit sorry for him.

“Lord Douping? Don’t you have something to tell me?” the King of Zhao couldn’t help but ask.