Chapter 3: Slaying the Villain, Minister Xiao.

At this moment, Hu Hai was filled with both anger and fear, yet these palace guards were not under his command. Fu Su held a portion of the command authority over the palace guards, which was a reflection of the First Emperor's trust and reliance on his eldest son. As for Hu Hai, he still had seventeen older brothers and sisters ahead of him. Although he was greatly favored by Qin Shi Huang, he had not yet acquired any substantial power

This person is dressed in bright colors, of medium stature, with a countenance that is more somber than heroic, yet he can still be considered a handsome man. He is accompanied by a large entourage. The group following him exudes an imposing presence, but also carries a hint of commercial boisterousness.

Hu Hai, the eighteenth son of Qin Shi Huang. He is famously known in later generations as the Second Emperor of Qin! The Second Emperor who led to the fall of Qin!

Returning to the main topic, Fusu observed the operational status of various government offices while also examining the arrangements within the imperial palace

Leaving behind the extremely unsightly Hu Hai, a group of palace servants were filled with fear and trepidation, while the palace guards seemed as if nothing had ever happened

The minor official, upon witnessing this, was so startled that his soul seemed to leave his body, and he shouted loudly: "Palace guards, the young master has been attacked, come quickly to provide protection."

In contrast, Fusu focused more on the defensive capabilities of the palace architecture, as this era was marked by frequent warfare. The inner city often served as the last bastion of a fortress; while its defensive system may not be extensive, it is undoubtedly as solid as a rock. Because the area that needs protection is small, more manpower, resources, and finances can be invested, making the defensive capabilities the most outstanding aspect of a city. Historically, the Diaoyu City in Hechuan held out in Sichuan for thirty-six years. A significant portion of that time can be attributed to the defenses of the inner city. Because the area that needs protection is small, more manpower, resources, and finances can be invested, making the defensive capabilities the most outstanding aspect of a city. Historically, the Diaoyu City in Hechuan held out in Sichuan for thirty-six years. A significant portion of that time can be attributed to the defenses of the inner city.

"I wonder, brother, what do you think?" At this moment, Hu Hai appeared respectful and cautious, resembling a wronged younger brother lamenting to his elder sibling. His expression, seemingly filled with extreme grievance, appeared as if it had always been this way

"I will obey the young master's command," the young official replied, feeling moved in his heart. The young master, despite his high position, showed respect to an ordinary young official. It seems that my journey of a thousand miles to take office in Xianyang was not in vain, as the old county magistrate had said.

Upon hearing the title "Young Master," Fusu's mind immediately conjured the image of that person, and upon observing the demeanor, he understood the situation to some extent. Given this, how could he allow this villain to act with such impunity? He pushed aside the minor official, only to find that the long sword was incessantly aimed at his head, causing Fusu to be greatly alarmed. He hurriedly dodged.

Nevertheless, the stop of the hand and the hilt of the book have already left the minor official with a bruised face and swollen nose

"Step aside, let me through. I'm perfectly fine. Who said I was attacked? Am I not standing here in good health?" Several outer guards were pushed aside by a young man dressed in prince's attire.

The soldiers responded with a resounding "Yes." After a loud shout, it wasn't long before the eunuch frequently glanced at Hu Hai, only to see Hu Hai with a sullen face, remaining silent.

Fortunately, a few strands of hair were scattered, and fortunately, there was no bloodshed

Fusu's expression seemed to change slightly, yet he remained composed and said: "If that is the case, I shall release them. Let today's matter be put aside!"

Passing through the various rooms resembling a forest, Fusu Guang felt a bit dazzled just by looking. However, at this moment, he was more calculating in his mind, for this place was not only the office of the Grand Historian. Surrounding it were the offices of various central government departments, as the Emperor conducted affairs of state in the Xianyang Palace. Naturally, the ministers needed to be close to the Emperor to respond to various situations at any time. Some important departments were also established within the palace.

Fusu, faced with such continuous provocations from the Han, smiled instead of showing anger, saying: "The Qin has its own laws. Above are the imperial edicts, and below are the common people. What business is it of mine to interfere with you?" Although Fusu was extremely angry inside, his good upbringing and political sensitivity compelled him to remain calm.

Since this is the case, such wicked individuals dare to attempt an assassination on the elder brother. It is only right that the elder brother takes punitive action against them

Hu Hai shot a glance at Li Luo with his slanted, elongated eyes. He turned to Fu Su and asked, "Is he my swordsmanship instructor? Naturally, I should personally assess him, shouldn't I?"

At this moment, Fusu waved his hand to signal, binding Huhai's sword instructor, Li Luo, tightly. He also stuffed a piece of rag into his mouth and dragged him over, but did not deliver the final blow

The appointed time had arrived, and the young official arrived punctually at Fusu's small dwelling. He bowed his head and bent his body, displaying great respect

The henchman beside the villain also reacted, shouting sternly: "Stop! Mr. Li is the swordsmanship instructor of Young Master Hu Hai. Do not...!"

Before the attendant could finish speaking, he caught sight of Fusu in the center. Instantly, his soul seemed to leave his body, as if struck by lightning. He stood there, completely drained of energy and spirit.

The minor official bowed once and fixed his gaze upon Fusu

Eighteenth Brother, since such wicked people do not have the nameplate and books from your residence" As he spoke, Fusu looked towards Hu Hai

It turns out to be you, elder brother. Hu Hai has met you before. I did not know you were here, and my subordinate acted too recklessly, inadvertently offending you. This is truly a grave mistake. I hope, elder brother, that you can be magnanimous and forgive this ignorant person. Hu Hai seemed to return from a dream, and in astonishment, he "discovered" Fu Su. He then turned and expressed his deep regret.

The young master has been attacked; quickly come to protect him and capture the assailant

Eighteenth brother, I have gone ahead to assist Minister Feng. The number of evildoers in Xianyang is increasing, it seems it is time for a crackdown! Eighteenth brother, you must be cautious of these evildoers and avoid straying onto the wrong path!" With that, Fusu walked away without looking back.

Fusu's face appeared calm, yet it concealed an undeniable anger. It was supposed to be a normal day at work, but he encountered such unfortunate events, being provoked repeatedly.

As for those few guard officers, after subduing the villain, they knelt at Fusu's feet, hoping that Fusu would overlook their dereliction of duty. The imperial prince was unexpectedly attacked in the safest place in the world; if Fusu's anger could not be appeased, these few minor officials would surely be the first to take the blame

The minor official followed Fusu, carrying a piece made of black iron, on which the characters "Li Luo" were engraved in small seal script, along with the unique mark of Hu Hai's residence.

Unlike many later dynasties, which were characterized by overlapping institutions, intersecting functions, and an excess of personnel, the Qin Dynasty, as the first unified feudal regime, maintained a remarkably streamlined institutional structure. Coupled with its political development, there was essentially no occurrence of personnel being idle. Everyone was busy, yet there was no sense of chaos; rather, there was a high degree of orderliness.

Yet that villain could not move, with dozens of long spears aimed at his vital points. The nearest one was merely half a finger's breadth from his throat

The minor official was overjoyed and knelt down to pay his respects: "I, Xiao He, am willing to serve the young master unto death. Should I go against this, may heaven punish me!"

Each official is loyal to their position, and the administration of the empire has consistently remained in good condition. This is attributed to the vast and orderly legal system of the Qin Dynasty, which naturally originated during the period of Shang Yang's reforms

Fusu touched the nameplate and said to the young official: "What is your name? From now on, follow me closely."

Hu Hai believed he had successfully deceived Fu Su, feeling secretly pleased: "Indeed, Li Luo's swordsmanship is exceptional, possessing the courage of a hundred men. This is something my younger brother painstakingly sought from Henan." And books.

As he spoke, Fusu extended his hand, and a respectful officer of the Qin army, whose rank was equivalent to that of a Second Lieutenant, presented a Qin halberd.

Fusu saw that the young clerk had been knocked to the ground by someone, and then a big man with an angry expression emerged. This man was a swordsman, with a sharp sword at his waist. Upon seeing a young clerk in blue collide with him, he immediately became furious and actually drew his sword, preparing to stab.

As Fusu was walking, he suddenly stumbled and looked at the young clerk who claimed to be Xiao He in astonishment

Hu Hai shouted loudly: "Stop, all of you, stop for me!" The movements of the palace guards momentarily paused, but they were not prepared to cease their actions

Certainly, these places are not where the emperor resides. The imperial city is divided into inner and outer sections. At this time, the Afang Palace has not yet been completed; it will be a different matter once the construction of the Afang Palace is finished. Here, it can only be considered a place for the emperor and his ministers to conduct their official duties, while the emperor and his consorts reside within the inner palace. Apart from the emperor and his consorts, there are only the palace attendants.

Fusu smiled as he watched Hu Hai's performance, choosing not to expose the truth. He responded cheerfully, "A few days ago, I heard that my younger brother found a highly skilled swordsmanship instructor named Li Luo"

This voice is sharp and hoarse, and it turns out to belong to a eunuch

It was somewhat urgent, and the attendant was drenched in sweat. He hurried back and whispered in Hu Hai's ear. Hu Hai's expression immediately resembled that of someone who owed eight million, dark and gloomy as ink

Ah! The fear of death made the villain scream loudly, yet he could not utter a sound due to the rag in his mouth. His pleading gaze turned towards Hu Hai, but Hu Hai turned his face away. However, the palace attendants nearby could clearly see the increasingly grim expression on Hu Hai's face

As the son of the empire, Fusu was naturally recognized by the guards within the palace. Upon witnessing the calamity of weapons directed towards Fusu, several officers turned pale with fright. Their steps immediately quickened by more than double!

At this moment, Fusu slightly nodded to the clerk and smiled gently: "Lead me there."

Upon hearing Fusu's promise, Hu Hai waved his hand to send a eunuch to retrieve the nameplate from the fierce Han Li Luo.

Huhai felt a slight sense of relief upon hearing that Fusu did not intend to resort to violence and kill directly. It seemed he had gained some assurance: "Anyone I employ bears the insignia of my household. That eunuch does not have it, but Li Luo, the instructor, must have it."

And from the illustrations in the book, one can easily guess who the person is without even looking

Upon seeing this, Fusu's face still bore a warm and gentle smile, yet in Hu Hai's heart, it felt like a cold winter night with heavy rain pouring down

Hearing the harsh words from the powerful Han, the young official, disregarding his own pain, retreated back to Fu Su's side while shouting, "In the palace, who dares to commit murder?" He had already resolved that even if he were to be beaten to death, he could not allow the noble young man behind him to suffer even the slightest harm; not only would his conscience be troubled, but his entire family would also face dire consequences.

Capture these two impostors posing as the Eighteenth Brother's instructors, as well as the eunuch impersonating a palace maid

Ah! A public official (holding the rank equivalent to a lieutenant in the Qin military, with the title of "Qin Ershi Jun Gong Jue") suddenly struck with a Qin spear. The eunuch clutched his throat, blood gushing out, and with a loud thud, he fell to the ground. However, his gaze remained fixed on Hu Hai. The palace guards did not receive a direct order to kill the two, but they had the authority to "handle matters as they see fit." The officer could easily use this to absolve himself.

Fusu nodded in agreement as he listened, seemingly in strong accord with Hu Hai's words: "In that case, where are the attendants?"

The villain, despite his thick skin, was struck with terror upon realizing that he had been caught this time. However, he did not dare to act rashly, fearing that a single misunderstanding could cost him his life.

A cold snort escaped his lips; what does this Hu Hai mean? It could not be more obvious. His own instructor had clashed with Fu Su and was captured on the spot. Moreover, there was bloodshed within the palace, and such a display was intended to pressure Fu Su! Forcefully taking the person away from Fu Su.

Fusu narrowed his eyes slightly and then widened them in anger, shouting: "Stop!"

Only the blood on the ground silently tells a story

Suddenly, from the beautiful palace courtyard, which was originally filled with the fragrance of flowers and birdsong, a squad of soldiers rushed out. Several officers with their hair tied in buns shouted sternly, and the temperature in the air abruptly dropped below zero. The once warm and pleasant courtyard was instantly filled with a murderous aura, as if it were the depths of winter

Fusu quickly responded: "You are doing well! Go back and focus on your work, I will arrange things for you!"

Xiao He, Fu Su's heart raced. The heavens have shown great favor; the renowned Xiao He has actually been the first to pledge allegiance to me

The Han man, upon hearing this, displayed even more contempt on his face, realizing that he was merely a bookworm from mhetushucomcom, most likely one of the scholars brought by Emperor Qin from the Six States of Shandong. He let out a loud laugh and said, "I will announce my lord's name; just don't faint from fear. How dare you delay my lord's affairs!" As he said this, he gave Fusu a fierce smile, saying, "I wonder how many guts you have on you!"

As Fusu quickened his pace, the young clerk Yu Guang kept his eyes on him. Naturally, he led the way briskly, but as they turned a corner, a loud bang echoed.

Fusu unexpectedly thrust the Qin halberd forward, personally using the blood of the villain Li Luo to warn everyone of the consequences of offending him

If Fusu were to know what was on the mind of the Han dynasty, he would surely be both amused and bewildered. As Fusu worked under the Grand Historian, he naturally did not have the service of high-ranking officials nor would he wear royal attire, but instead donned plain clothes. He was just like an ordinary mid-level official, assisting the Grand Historian in investigating cases

The region of Henan refers to the area in the southern part of the Yellow River, encompassing present-day Ningxia and Gansu. The people there are inherently fierce and adhere to the law of the jungle. This territory was recently incorporated into the Qin state.

... ...

The man from the Han dynasty cast a sideways glance at Fusu, his thoughts racing. He noticed that the figure was neither dressed in the attire of high officials nor in royal robes. A sense of disdain arose within him: "Who is this brat to meddle in my affairs!"

Although they are calling each other "brother" one by one, the sincerity displayed is indeed hard to perceive. Instead, they are subtly shifting the narrative, clearly aiming to protect Li Luo, the instructor. The act of committing violence in the palace and injuring the Crown Prince is casually referred to as an "accidental collision," highlighting the vast difference in perception. It is easy to imagine the implications.

The subordinates immediately responded to those few officers

The villain, confronted by the small official's defiance, glared with fierce eyes, clearly seething with anger at the insolence directed towards him. Yet, he harbored a hint of cunning in his heart: "Daring to show disrespect to my lord, today I shall rid the young master of this wicked official!" With that, he relentlessly hurled his long sword, aiming directly for the small official's life.

Fusu still wore a gentle smile on his face, akin to a caring older brother speaking to his younger sibling: "In this world, there are countless who covet fame and fortune. Who knows if the true masters of swordsmanship are still around?"

Upon seeing these, Fusu had many thoughts, yet his steps did not falter. Instead, he quickened his pace, for the matter at hand was urgent; there would be plenty of time to study these later.

Of course!