Chapter 8, a faint fragrance of peach blossoms

The palace guards, transformed into personal attendants, remained silent, clad in black garments and armor. Their presence, resembling shadows, caused Guangji to feel a sense of foreboding. Suddenly, Fusu cast a smile at Guangji, which alleviated some of the gloom in Guangji's heart, prompting him to begin introducing Fusu to the Shennong Great Mountain.

Three individuals stood before Fusu. The middle one was a middle-aged man who leaned slightly forward, while another, slightly older, stood a bit further back, and the youngest was positioned slightly behind.

Such a stunning beauty, what a pity. Fusu was somewhat unsettled by this exquisite silhouette. Such beautiful pastoral scenery, such a beautiful lady. I hope this visit will not bring them any military misfortune

Fusu also changed into a set of regular attire, with a sword at his waist. The soldiers concealed their bows and crossbows. The officers wore swords, while the soldiers held knives, positioned in front of and behind Fusu. Although there was no hostility on their faces, the imposing aura of a battle-hardened lion in their every move still sent a chilling sensation through the Mo disciples.

"But it is of no consequence; the speaker is blameless." Fusu nodded slightly, looking at Guangji.

One hundred riders, each with two horses. Such a display is indeed quite grand, as the thunderous sound of hooves, numbering in the tens of thousands, can make the entire plain tremble, which is no exaggeration

The three listened to Fusu's words, exchanging glances with one another. They initially intended to present Fusu with a grand gift, showing weakness at every turn. Their aim was to make Fusu feel embarrassed, so that during the investigation, he would not involve Mo Family Village too much. Moreover, there were many secrets hidden within the Shennong Mountains. It would be unwise to let someone of such noble birth as Fusu know about them.

Certainly, unless absolutely necessary, Fusu would not resort to such a desperate measure

Another group of over 200 people, commanded by Fusu, was instructed to hide. They were to use fireworks as a signal to contact the nearby stationed troops. At the first sign of any unusual activity, they would immediately mobilize their forces to attack the mountain

Looking at the ink practitioners at the bottom level of the Ink Gate, they all wear short-collared brown robes. However, these three individuals are dressed in splendid attire

Along the way, amidst the mountains, in the grass and on the large trees, a group of individuals dressed in brown robes, armed with short knives and guns, emerged from various nooks and crannies.

Although Fusu's visit was quite imposing, he did not dare to offend this great deity excessively and discussed privately with Meng Yi. Meng Yi claimed that he needed an elite force of 10,000 to eliminate the threat within three years

Tian Fan, my personal guards are stationed outside the village, but the supply of provisions remains unchanged. Military supplies can be purchased locally at reasonable prices, with payment made in advance. "Fu Su smiled and said to Tian Fan: "What do you think?"

I see. Observing these perilous mountains and rivers, it seems that the government labor, taxes, and levies must be quite inconvenient, right?" Fu Su continued to inquire

"Lay down your weapons, for Young Master Fusu has arrived. Why do you not welcome him?" Guangji's voice was stern, clearly fearing that this ambush would provoke Fusu. Thus, he adopted a severe tone, trying to appear compliant. This, in turn, made Fusu feel awkward about saying anything further

Who is that woman again

Hastily helping the three elders, "Esteemed elders, there is no need for excessive formalities. I, Fusu, have come today solely to pursue the bandits. Moreover, I currently hold no official position, merely that of a young junior. I hope for your generous assistance!"

The climate during the late Qin period was significantly warmer than it is today. The climate in the Central Plains region was comparable to that of the current Yangtze River Delta, characterized by a pleasant climate

Upon thinking of the case, Tian Fan, who was following Fu Su, furrowed her brows into a "川" shape. She let out a silent sigh and exchanged a glance with her two partners. With a mind full of tangled thoughts, she decided that since the leader was not present, it would be best to consult her two old partners for their opinions.

Fusu stepped forward, cupped his hands in salute, and spoke in a friendly manner: "Fusu has indeed come to disturb you this time. However, the remnants of Chu, Han, and Zhao are still rampant, which is truly concerning for all of you scholars."

Such thoughts crossed his mind, yet that graceful figure suddenly stirred Fu Su's heart

Young master, you may not be aware that beyond the three great mountains ahead lies a small basin of over ten li in circumference, along with a library. The disciples of the Mo family toil diligently, with each household engaged in weaving, making a living from this, and they are content with their lot. " Guangji said with a smile, appearing quite proud.

A faint fragrance of peach blossoms wafted through the air as Fusu turned his head. A figure briefly appeared before Fusu's eyes, only to vanish in an instant.

Shennong Mountain served as the stronghold for the Moists of the Qin state, established by the prominent Moist leader, Fu Huangxiang, during the reign of Duke Hui of Qin. At that time, the Moists were already showing signs of division, with disciples inclined towards the unification of the Qin state and the cessation of warfare following the leader to Shennong Mountain, where they founded Mo City. This added a booster to the momentum of Qin's war chariot, thus being referred to as Qin Mo

Tian Fan felt a surge of joy in his heart. Throughout history, if one were to speak of the most profitable trades, and upon hearing the words "justice," Fu Su had deliberately emphasized the pronunciation a bit. Understanding the implication, Tian Fan's internal balance quietly shifted.

"Young Master, the village elder has arrived," Qize said softly beside Fusu

As they approached, Fusu ordered the soldiers to change into their regular uniforms. They camped outside the village, bringing only a few personal guards with them.

Fusu marched day and night, and by the morning of the second day, he reached the Shennong Mountains. However, Fusu did not bring all of his cavalry into the Shennong Mountains.

Moreover, the influence of the Mohist school is exceedingly significant. It should not be easily provoked, as many of the Nine Ministers in the court are either Mohists or supporters of Mohism. Even Qin Shi Huang did not fully grasp this.

One elegantly dressed and reserved elder responded with a smile, "It is truly an honor for the Mo family that the young master can visit this remote village. However, we have no fear of mere bandits."

"It is a serious matter. Just a mere teacher, I pay my respects to you, young master"

In the end, the two factions of the Mohist school became divided, with one faction located in the Shennong Mountains of the Qin state. The other faction remained hidden within the former territories of the Six States. However, whether the Mohist Mechanism City is situated in the Shennong Mountains is known only to the most core members of the Mohist school within the Qin state.

Although feeling uncomfortable, Fusu set aside his pride and exchanged a few pleasantries. He headed straight towards the He-Tu-Shu Mountain.

Fusu's expression was calm as he nodded slightly: "Indeed. Those in office should alleviate the burdens of the people. Of course, one must abide by the law!" After saying this, he did not speak further

In the county town outside the Shennong Mountains, there are disciples of the Mo family among them. When they go out to procure goods and pay taxes, as for the corvée... " As he spoke, Guangji felt a bit awkward, as if there were hidden circumstances.

Hmm, you go and maintain military discipline. Do not disturb the people!" After saying this, Fusu adjusted his clothing. Indeed, not far away, he saw a group of people in dark attire.

Short jacket and brown clothing, with a sharp and tidy appearance. Fusu noticed the thick calluses on the person's hands, clearly indicating that they were a skilled practitioner.

Clearly, upon seeing the temptation of wealth, he was immediately moved. Nevertheless, Fu Su's impression of the Mo family began to change quietly. After a century, the Mo sect had already declined, and the position of Mo Shou, which was second only to the leader, was actually held by a greedy person. Fu Su could not help but feel deeply disappointed

Fusu traversed the mountain ridges, where the terrain was constantly undulating. On both sides, the mountain streams and ravines crisscrossed. The landscape was perilous, and the roads were difficult to navigate. Yet, as Fusu continued on, he increasingly admired the brilliance of the initial site selection by Fu Huang. However, he secretly pondered that if he were to lead an army to attack, even with a million soldiers, he would be unable to deploy even ten thousand within these mountains. The cavalry could only serve as scouts, and the swift horses that galloped across the plains found it challenging to maneuver in the mountains.

Now, when Fusu speaks, he presents himself as a junior, not accepting the grand礼. Instead, he places a certain label of elder caring for juniors upon the three. But is this lofty title easy to bear? Clearly not. Who is Fusu? The crown prince of the empire, the second most esteemed person in the world. When encountering Fusu, it is impossible to adopt the stance of an elder teaching a junior, as that would be disrespectful to the royal family. Therefore, the only option left is, as Fusu said, to assist him diligently in investigating the case.

Fusu was lost in thought when he suddenly heard the exclamations of those around him. He raised his eyes and, indeed, could faintly see the destination. Because they were standing at a higher elevation, the entire view was visible. The guide had clearly put considerable effort into this route. Fusu cast an appreciative glance in that direction.

The view is truly picturesque, a splendid scene of pastoral beauty

The county magistrate has a fondness for ink studies. Therefore, if there are any inconveniences, one may allow others to serve on their behalf. Guang Ji Qi Qi Ai Ai said, constantly glancing at Fu Su's expression.

Mo Family, Mo Shou: Tian Fan pays a visit to the young master. This is Zu Li, a master of the intricate techniques of the Mo School.

Guangji was utterly astonished, his eyes wide open. However, upon seeing the personal guard behind him, with their swords drawn, he pursed his lips and let out a sharp whistle.

Fusu led one hundred men, and the reconnaissance unit contracted. They encountered the disciples of the Mo family ten miles outside the mountains

Fu Su conversed with Guang Ji, displaying no airs. His approachable demeanor deeply impressed Guang Ji, leading to an open exchange of ideas without reservation. After a moment of reflection, Fu Su inquired, "Are the disciples of the Mo family merely hunters, living by capturing wild beasts and timber?"

Guang Ji instructed his subordinates to quickly report, and then dared to lead the way in front of Fu Su

Another group of Mozi disciples believed that the six states could resist Qin. They traveled among the six states, as the territories of the six states were ten times larger than those of Qin, and their initial development was quite rapid. However, when the Qin state unified the world, this group of Mozi disciples suffered heavy losses. In the six states, some died defending the cities, while others went into hiding and disappeared. For a time, the Mozi of Qin surpassed those of the six states.

Though the words are cordial, Fusu's personal guard is already prepared for battle. The crossbows are drawn, swords are unsheathed, and spears are firmly gripped

With the steep terrain, it is difficult to surpass these perilous mountains without paying a price tenfold. Upon this thought, Fusu became increasingly eager to learn more about the details of the Shennong Mountains

A light blue ink-dyed skirt, accompanied by a few ink-colored peach blossom patterns, exudes a fresh and elegant aura. The upper body is only visible from the back, featuring a light purple waist cincher and symmetrically designed short sleeves in a goose yellow, adding a touch of warmth. The mugwort patterns on the collar further enhance an inexplicable charm.

As we move forward, the willows sway gently, and the peach blossoms bloom, their pink petals carpeting every inch of the land. The maiden's song begins, accompanied by the young man's flute. The singing is clear and melodious, while the flute plays softly and gracefully

However, it now appears that Fusu still underestimated the Mo School

One by one, they must bow down after speaking, unlike a pretense. However, Fusu did not wish to comply, as the combined ages of the three individuals must exceed ten times that of Fusu. Respecting the elders is a traditional virtue of Chinese civilization, which Fusu naturally kept in mind

Thirty miles beyond the mountains. Fusu secretly ordered the cavalry to conceal themselves, dismounting all cavalry to fight as infantry. Fusu was naturally unafraid of the decline in combat effectiveness that would result from cavalry becoming infantry. Only elite infantry could serve as the foundation for cavalry, and elite cavalry were the most distinguished among infantry. Fusu temporarily selected a portion of these individuals to expand his personal guard as the prince's retinue, intending to report to Ying Zheng for a decision in the future. For now, Fusu naturally intended to make good use of these elite troops.

Seeing the expression on Tian Fan's face, Fu Su revealed a smile. The combination of carrots and sticks proved effective. First, apply pressure on the upper echelons of the Mo family, and with the army behind, the intimidation is even more substantial.

The green rice paddies sway gently in the wind, resembling a sea of undulating green waves. A leisurely shepherd rides on a water buffalo, and the sound of a flute resonates. It is a scene of relaxed tranquility

Although his complexion was not favorable, Fusu had already become vigilant in his heart. He initially thought that the disciples of the Mo family numbered only a few thousand. Even if the Mo family's mechanical techniques could transform decay into the miraculous, when faced with the iron-blooded army, it would take at most a year to deal with them.

Fu Su looked at the ink scholar in front of him, who called himself Guang Ji, with great interest: "Young Master Fu Su. I have come to pay my respects to the master of the Mo family. Please go and announce my arrival."

"Do not be rude!" Although the man is in middle age, he is still handsome. He must have been a striking young man in his youth. His attire is also quite luxurious and grand. The patterns on his clothing are flowing, and with every movement, his garments flutter gracefully, giving him an air of elegance and charm