Chapter 4: A Pitfall, Setting Out
“If you cannot prevail, my father and I will bring our heads to present ourselves!”
This fierce military declaration struck Zhao Zhao like a heavy hammer crashing down on the back of his head.
His vision darkened, the world spun wildly, and his whole body wavered, nearly toppling from his chair.
Damn it!
This was the ultimate, invincible, soul-crushing betrayal!
How did I end up with such a rebellious son?
Zhao Zhao’s heart roared in anguish, yet his face drained of all color, his trembling lips unable to utter a single word.
Empress Wu Mingkong took in his expression with keen eyes, a playful curve gracing her lips as she fixed her sharp gaze upon him.
“Minister Zhao,” her voice was cold yet carried undeniable authority, “what is your opinion of your son’s proposal?”
What could I say?
If I refuse, my son and I will march hand in hand to our graves this very moment!
Blood poured from Zhao Zhao’s heart, but he forced an expression more agonizing than tears.
Through clenched teeth, he managed to utter each word distinctly.
“I... have no objection.”
“Good!”
The Empress rose abruptly, her dragon robe swirling as a majestic aura of imperial dominance burst forth.
“Announce my decree!”
“Appoint Minister of War Zhao Zhao as General of the Northern Front, commanding the army!”
“His son Zhao Yi shall be the vanguard and accompany the troops!”
“Grant thirty thousand soldiers, a three-month campaign to repel the Northern barbarians!”
“By imperial order!”
The decree was final, leaving no room for negotiation.
...
On the carriage ride back to the Zhao residence, the oppressive atmosphere was suffocating.
Zhao Zhao’s eyes were bloodshot as he glared fiercely at Zhao Yi, his gaze as if ready to devour him alive.
Zhao Yi remained unruffled, eyes closed in calm repose, utterly ignoring his father’s murderous look.
As soon as they returned and the gates closed behind them, Zhao Zhao’s pent-up fury exploded.
“Where’s my sword?”
Like a mad tiger, he grabbed the steward by the collar, roaring hoarsely.
“Where is my great horse-cleaving sabre? Bring it to me at once!”
“Today, I swear I’ll carve this ungrateful beast to pieces!”
The steward trembled, his legs shaking uncontrollably.
At that moment, a calm yet powerful voice came from the back hall.
“Who are you planning to strike?”
Though quiet, the words instantly snuffed out Zhao Zhao’s rage like a rooster’s neck being squeezed.
An elderly man in simple cloth garments, his hair streaked with gray but his posture erect, emerged slowly, leaning on a cane.
This was the true anchor of the Zhao family, the retired patriarch Zhao Xiao.
Upon seeing his father, Zhao Zhao’s arrogance shrank by half, his fury melting into profound grievance as he pointed at Zhao Yi, his hands trembling with anger.
“Father! Look at him! Look at your wonderful grandson!”
“He... he’s setting the entire Zhao family ablaze!”
Zhao Xiao paid no heed, his cloudy yet still sharp eyes scrutinizing Zhao Yi from head to toe with great care.
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