Chapter 4, Great Scholars of Law

Madam Han said: "However, that person has a peculiar rule regarding the selection of disciples; not just anyone can be accepted."

Madam Han said: "I can teach you martial arts. However, if you wish to display your prowess on the battlefield, it is not martial arts that you should rely on, but military strategy. Mastering martial arts may allow you to kill at most ten people, whereas mastering military strategy enables you to command thousands upon thousands of troops, capable of changing the color of mountains and rivers, and making emperors bow in submission"

Han Huai and Chu sighed inwardly and said: "The wheel of history only moves forward, never backward. Ultimately, the Qin Dynasty perished, and the Han Dynasty rose, while the various lords of the six states, despite their brief resurgence, were like fleeting blossoms, obliterated in the torrent of history"

Han Huai and Chu were taken aback by the words, "Home! I still have a home. The future Han Xin once said he had a home, where his elderly mother still resides. If I am to be Han Xin's substitute, how can I not return to his home?"

Unbeknownst to them, the sky had darkened, and the sun was setting in the west. Lady Han then said, "It is getting late, young man, are you not going home?"

The thatched cottage was exceedingly small, yet Madam Han moved with great composure, swiftly drawing her hand, akin to a black vine, and in the blink of an eye had seized the sword sheath from Han Huai Chu. Pointing at Han Huai Chu's throat, she smiled and said, "Young man, how is it?"

Madam Han pondered for a long time before speaking: "I know a reclusive master who lives outside the world and often interacts with my husband. Let me write a letter to recommend you to visit him as your teacher"

Han Huai Chu questioned, "Why is this?" Lady Han explained, "Over ten years ago, Xiang Shaolong suddenly disappeared, and all historical records related to him were destroyed by Ying Zheng. King Zheng of Qin ordered that from then on, the name Xiang Shaolong was not to be mentioned again, and those who violated this decree would be executed without mercy"

Madam Han replied: "I have heard my husband mention that this person is the teacher of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, and seems to possess the ability of foresight. It is said that he comes from a future world"

Han Huaichu recognized that this was a manuscript from the Qin Dynasty, so he stepped forward to open a scroll. He saw that it was inscribed in Qin clerical script, with strong and vigorous characters, stating: "The difficulty of speaking: it is not that I lack the knowledge to articulate, nor is it that my arguments cannot clarify my intentions, nor is it that I dare to lose my way yet can fully express it. The difficulty of speaking lies in knowing the heart of what is to be said, which allows me to speak accordingly. What is spoken comes from those who seek high reputation, and if spoken for great profit, it will encounter lowliness in the subsequent sections, and must be abandoned far away. What is spoken comes from great profit, and if spoken for high reputation, it will see that harmony and literature are devoid of intention and far removed from matters, and must not be received. What is spoken under the guise of great profit yet appears as high reputation, if spoken for high reputation, will lead to the outward acceptance of oneself while actually distancing oneself; if spoken for great profit, it will use its words to reveal and abandon its own self. This cannot be overlooked. What is spoken under the guise of great profit yet appears as high reputation, if spoken for high reputation, will lead to the outward acceptance of oneself while actually distancing oneself; if spoken for great profit, it will use its words to reveal and abandon its own self. This cannot be overlooked.

She took out a piece of sheepskin, covered with inscriptions and patterns, and said: "This is the martial arts of my family. The mental techniques and sword moves are all recorded here. My father has only one daughter, and I have neither son nor daughter. This martial art is on the verge of being lost. Since it seems you are fated to receive it, I shall pass it on to you. I hope you can study it diligently and uphold the reputation of the Zheng family's martial arts"

Han Xin and his mother have been together since childhood. Although I look exactly like Han Xin, how could his mother not recognize that I am an imposter? The thought of how to handle my relationship with Han Xin's mother gives me a headache.

Han Huaichu sighed, feeling the enormity of the task at hand, and said despondently: "It seems that the search for Xiang Shaolong must be put on hold for the time being. I will discuss it again after I have accomplished something grand and significant."

Madam Han sighed for a moment and said: "Twenty years ago in Handan, my husband heard Xiang Shaolong say at a debate conference, 'When the king breaks the law, he is guilty like the common people.' At that time, everyone felt it was profoundly enlightening; it turns out he had already hinted at the future strategy of governing the country by law.

At that time, Emperor Qin Shi Huang had not yet burned the books and buried the scholars, and the situation of the hundred schools of thought contending had not yet come to an end. Although the Qin court exclusively favored Legalism, filled with figures like Li Si, several mainstream schools of thought such as Confucianism, Daoism, and Mohism never ceased their disputes. Emperor Qin Shi Huang was still willing to listen to and tolerate them.

However, Madam Han frowned again and said: "But—"

Han Huai-Chu immediately asked upon hearing the name Xiang Shaolong: "Madam Han, do you know Xiang Shaolong?"

Han Huaichu entered the thatched cottage and saw that the interior was sparsely furnished, with only a few rough tables and chairs. The only striking feature was a large dark blue cabinet that occupied an entire wall, making it quite eye-catching

After a moment of sighing, Madam Han suddenly asked: "I wonder, two thousand years from now, which school of thought among the various philosophers will prevail?"

Han Huai Chu asked: "Madam, are you familiar with military strategy?"

It is likely that Han Xin goes around begging for food every day, and the Han family must have long been unable to make ends meet. One can only wonder how his sick mother is managing to live.

Han Huaichu felt a deep sense of shame, and his towering ambitions instantly vanished into thin air

"Madam Han is still thinking about who finally planted the red flag on the hill." Han Huaichu found this amusing and replied, "At that time, there was no longer any contention among the hundred schools of thought; if we were to discuss it seriously, it was still the Legalist philosophy that held the upper hand."

Originally, I intended to learn martial arts from Madam Han and then seek out a master to study military strategy, followed by wandering the world in search of my comrade, Xiang Shaolong. However, now I have an elderly mother at home; how can I abandon her?

With a cold sword sheath pressed against his throat, Han Huaichu felt an extremely unpleasant sensation. He thought to himself, as a seven-foot tall man and an elite member of the special forces, how could he be overpowered by an old woman from the Qin Dynasty!

Madam Han said: "You should have dinner with me first, then go home to take a look. Rest for a night, and come back tomorrow to learn swordsmanship."

Han Huai and Chu were taken aback upon hearing this and asked, "Could it be that the lady is the wife of Han Fei?"

Madam Han shook her head and said: "My father, Zheng Guo, was merely a swordsman and did not understand military affairs. If you are interested in military strategy, you may purchase military books in the marketplace. Works such as 'Wei Liaozi', 'Sima Fa', and 'Wu Zi' are all common publications available for purchase as long as you have the money. However, to seek superior military strategies, one must have a wise teacher to provide guidance"

Madam Han appeared calm and unhurried, gracefully turning her body to circle around Han Huai Chu's side. Her agility was such that one would not believe she was an elderly woman of advanced years

Zheng Hui said: "The thatched cottage is humble, which must amuse Young Master Han. Please sit for a moment, and I will go prepare some tea." After speaking, she walked directly towards the kitchen

The difficulty of persuasion lies in understanding the intentions of the other party in order to be accepted by them

Han Huai and Chu Sui revealed the matter of exchanging identities with Han Xin, stating: "In history, Han Xin is the god of war who won every battle, establishing and expanding the territory for the Han Dynasty, commanding great influence, and reaching the ranks of King of Qi and King of Chu"

Madam Han then began to instruct Han Huaichu in the art of swordsmanship

Madam Han snorted, "If you are not afraid of losing your life, then go ahead. How could that tyrant Ying Zheng possibly tell you?"

Little did he know that the elderly woman before him was not simple. Her father, Zheng Guo, was a top-tier swordsman in Korea. If Zheng Guo dared to enter the treacherous land of the Qin state as a spy, how could he be merely a water conservancy expert? From a young age, Lady Han learned martial arts from her father. Han Huaichu, who had learned combat skills in the army, found himself vastly inferior when compared to such a master.

Han Huai-chu pressed further, asking, "Do you know where he is now?" Lady Han replied with a bitter smile, "Not only do I not know his whereabouts, but even mentioning his name now would lead to the execution of the entire household."

Indeed, the modern weapons and combat techniques learned in the military have little application in this chaotic world. Without knowledge of military strategy, what is there to discuss about dominating the world and influencing fate?

Han Huai and Chu frowned and said, "Then I can only go find Qin Shi Huang"

Han Huaichu dispelled his concerns and, for a moment, felt a serene longing for that reclusive master.

He organized his thoughts and then said: "Most countries in the world are now governed by the rule of law, and anyone who violates the law must face legal sanctions"

Madam, rest assured, on the battlefield of Huai and Chu in the future, I will certainly bring glory to you

Zheng Hui sighed and said, "Thank you for informing me, may I ask your esteemed name?" Han Huai Chu replied, "I am surnamed Han and my given name is Huai Chu." Zheng Hui invited, "If you do not mind, Young Master Han, could you accompany me to my humble abode for a visit?"

Whenever someone says "however," there must be some difficulty involved. Upon hearing this, Han Huaichu felt a sinking sensation in his heart

Madam Han, seeing that Han Huaichu possessed an extraordinary demeanor, unlike that of an ordinary person, inquired: "Young Master Han, what great undertaking do you aspire to accomplish?"

Madam Han was greatly surprised upon hearing this and increasingly felt that this young man was a person of great potential. She intended to nurture him and thus asked, "Young Master Han, you are indeed extraordinary and possess such grand ambitions. However, if you wish to achieve great things, do you understand military strategy, and what is your proficiency in martial arts?"

Zheng Hui nodded and replied: "I am indeed the one."

Han Huaichu carefully surveyed the surroundings and noticed that the cabinet was filled with numerous bamboo slips, which were connected by fine strings at the top, middle, and bottom, arranged neatly in order.

Han Huaichu, originally a high-achieving student in Chinese, immediately recognized this as the work "Shuo Nan" by the Legalist philosopher Han Fei. Reflecting on how Han Fei, due to his persuasion of Qin Shi Huang to attack Zhao while delaying the attack on Han, aroused suspicion in Qin Shi Huang and was subsequently executed, this work "Shuo Nan" seemed to express Han Fei's innermost thoughts. Han Huaichu could not help but feel moved and sighed: "Even though Han Fei possessed extraordinary talent and understood the difficulties of persuasion, why, knowing it would bring him trouble, did he still act with unwavering resolve?"

Han Huai and Chu were eager to inquire about Xiang Shaolong's news, and there was no reason for them not to go, so they readily agreed

Han Huaichu, in the special forces, excels in all skills. His combat techniques rank among the best in the legion, and no one has yet been his match. He sees Madam Han as nothing more than a trembling old woman and doubts that he cannot handle her. He then shouts, "I will not be polite, then!" and draws his sword, striking towards Madam Han.

Madam Han pondered for a moment and said, "There may be only one person in the world who knows the whereabouts of Minister Xiang, and that person is the First Emperor."

Han Huai-chu inquired, "What are the rules?" Lady Han replied, "That master is skilled in discerning people. It is said that he can foresee a person's future. No one can escape his discerning gaze, whether they are fortunate or not, or what kind of fate they possess. Therefore, before accepting a disciple, he must first meet them in person. If one's destiny does not hold the qualifications for greatness, they cannot become his disciple. Since you claim to have the fate of ascending the platform and becoming a leader, it is likely that he will find you worthy."

Madam Han laughed and said, "Young master, why not give it a try and see if you can defeat me."

Han Huaichu was overjoyed upon hearing this and expressed his gratitude, saying: "Thank you very much, madam"

Han Huai-Chu smiled and said: "Two thousand years later, the imperial system has long since exited the stage of history. By then, there will be no emperors; all levels of rulers will be elected by citizens through voting, and before the law, everyone is equal"

Madam Han shook her head and said, "In chaotic times, how can one defend against formidable enemies with only a superficial understanding of martial arts? Without knowledge of military strategy, how can one plan and command thousands of troops?"

Han Huaichu's physique has been enhanced through special forces training, making him different from ordinary people. When practicing swordsmanship, he finds it effortless and progresses rapidly. After just a few hours, he has already mastered three moves. Madam Han watches in amazement and praises him, saying: "In my day, it took me half a month to learn these three moves, yet you have mastered them in just a few hours. Truly a martial arts prodigy"

Han Fei is renowned throughout the ages, a master of legal studies, and is respectfully referred to as "Zi" by later generations. I studied his writings in middle school, and I never expected to meet his wife here! Madam Han, please allow me to pay my respects to you.

Upon hearing this, Madam Han's tears flowed down her cheeks, and she sighed: "Life is as fleeting as a white horse passing through a gap; I never expected that my husband's name would be passed down two thousand years later. Although my husband has passed away, his Legalist thoughts can be transmitted to future generations. I am truly overjoyed."

The two individuals walked along the Huai River. After a while, they arrived in front of a low thatched cottage. Zheng Hui pushed the door open and said, "This is my humble abode. Please come in and rest your feet."

Han Huai-Chu let out a bitter laugh and said, "I possess nothing of value and am unknown; how could I have the opportunity to meet a great master?"

Madam Han asked in surprise: "Is it possible that the emperor, having committed a crime, must also be punished?"

As Han Huai-Chu spoke, a chill ran through his heart, rendering him unable to utter the next sentence. He suddenly recalled that although Han Xin had enjoyed great glory on the battlefield, he was ultimately demoted to the title of Marquis of Huaiyin and fell victim to the scheme of Xiao He in the Palace of Chang Le, dying at the hands of Empress Lü. He couldn't help but think to himself, "Could it be that I too will meet such a fate"

Han Huai and Chu Da were in a difficult situation. Han Huai said, "I have learned martial arts in the army, and I can handle a few people with my bare hands, but I am not knowledgeable about military strategy."

Only a voice from the kitchen was heard: "Young Master Han, do you also recognize the husband?" An elderly woman quickly walked out from the kitchen.

Han Huaichu felt as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over him, his face filled with disappointment: "Isn't it true that no one knows the whereabouts of Xiang Shaolong?"

It turns out that this lady is Korean. When Qin destroyed the six states, the people of the six states all yearned for the restoration of their nations. Yet, little did they know that with the establishment of the Han Dynasty and the unification of the central region, the dream of restoring the six states had completely turned into a mere illusion

Han Huai and Chu also lamented: "In history, leaving one's mark, achieving lasting fame, how many have done so throughout the ages?"

Madam Han said: "The matter of studying military strategy can be postponed for the time being; you should first focus on learning martial arts with me."

Han Huaichu then realized that he was still at a distance from the current masters, so he earnestly requested Madam Han to teach him martial arts

Han Huaichu asked anxiously, "I wonder if that reclusive master requires a fee for accepting disciples?" Lady Han laughed heartily and replied, "Young master, you worry too much. That master is quite wealthy himself; money is as insignificant as dirt to him. Whether you are a noble prince, a wealthy merchant, or a poor laborer, it makes no difference to him. There are often poor individuals of noble character who are accepted as his disciples, and they even end up being a burden on him for their sustenance"

Husband? Could it be that this old woman is the famous legal scholar Han Fei's wife?