Chapter 161: The King’s Concern
The King's Concern . . .
Wan Zheng-Hao watched as Feng Zhi-Ling, now his superior, continued to revel in his amusement. His face twitched with a mixture of embarrassment and resignation, but he knew better than to confront his newfound boss about it. Feng Zhi-Ling's gleeful demeanor had made it abundantly clear that things had shifted in their dynamic.
After a while, the laughter subsided, and they found themselves sitting together, the air less tense than before. It was the first time they had engaged in a friendly, albeit business-related, conversation.
"Master Feng," Wan Zheng-Hao began tentatively, "I was wondering when we might commence our cooperation."
Feng Zhi-Ling leaned back thoughtfully and replied, "Haven't we already begun?"
"Well then," Wan Zheng-Hao continued, "I'm curious about the timing for receiving the dan beads I require."
Feng Zhi-Ling chuckled, recalling the earlier exchange, "Haven't I already given you one, the Slimming Dan bead? It appears to have worked quite well."
Wan Zheng-Hao shifted uncomfortably in his seat and clarified, "I meant the others."
"You want more Slimming Dan beads, as well as the Life Extending Dan beads?" Feng Zhi-Ling inquired, raising an eyebrow. "I can delay the Life Extending Dan beads for a few days, but I urgently require the Slimming Dan beads!"
Feng Zhi-Ling maintained an air of amusement, replying, "I see. No problem there, but I don't currently have the time for it."
Perplexed, Wan Zheng-Hao probed further, "Is something hindering you?"
"You already know the answer to that question," Feng Zhi-Ling retorted with a wry smile. "I've mentioned previously that I lack the necessary materials. The Slimming Dan bead I provided you was a half-finished product due to these limitations."
Realizing his mistake, Wan Zheng-Hao humbly conceded, "I apologize. It was wrong of me to ask."
Feng Zhi-Ling continued, "So, the timing of when I can provide you with your dan beads depends on how quickly you can gather the materials I need."
Determined to expedite the process, Wan Zheng-Hao offered, "Please provide me with a list of the required materials. I'll do everything within my power to collect them as swiftly as possible."
Feng Zhi-Ling nodded approvingly, adding a word of caution, "Keep in mind that while these materials aren't exceedingly rare, acquiring them all within a short timeframe may still pose a challenge."
Wan Zheng-Hao displayed unwavering determination as he responded, "I understand, and I'll give it my all."
Feng Zhi-Ling shrugged, a grin forming on his face. "Ultimately, it's your desire for the dan beads, not mine, so the effort lies with you."
"I'm fully aware of that," Wan Zheng-Hao replied with sincerity.
As their discussion shifted gears, Feng Zhi-Ling proposed, "Now that we're part of the same group, I think it's time we assign you an official title. Would it be acceptable to reveal your true identity to the public?"
"Well, as you wish," Feng Zhi-Ling responded, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes.
"Good. How should we call you in work then?" Wan Zheng-Hao inquired.
With a contemplative expression, Feng Zhi-Ling offered a suggestion, "Hmm, call me... Monarch."
And so, in the Ling-Bao Hall Salesroom, the title of 'Monarch' was bestowed upon an individual who held a position higher than even the big boss, Wan Zheng-Hao himself. This unprecedented development sent shockwaves through the world.
Meanwhile, in the midst of this transformative moment, their conversation continued.
"Feng Monarch, is there anything I can offer you?" Wan Zheng-Hao asked, eager to accommodate his new superior.
Feng Zhi-Ling leaned back in his chair, enumerating his requirements, "What I need are quite numerous: materials for dan-making, weapon materials, treasures, rare metals, and various precious stones. I need them all."
Wan Zheng-Hao hesitated, then cautiously raised a concern, "Well, if all these resources are provided to you, the salesroom might face some... challenges."
Feng Zhi-Ling waved off the concern confidently, assuring, "It won't be a problem. Provide me with whatever I request. Periodically, I will supply the salesroom with supreme dan beads for auctions. This will address any financial concerns."
"Really?" Wan Zheng-Hao's eyes widened with hope.
"Absolutely," Feng Zhi-Ling affirmed. "Moreover, there may be other valuable items in addition to the supreme dan beads. In short, since my arrival at the salesroom, it will never lack exceptional objects for auctions. The salesroom's revenue will increase exponentially."
Wan Zheng-Hao couldn't hide his relief as he responded, "That's great. No problems then."
Feng Zhi-Ling then suggested, "I believe for our next supreme dan auction, we should aim for a larger-scale event than the last. This will drive up the final sale price."
"Okay," Wan Zheng-Hao agreed.
As the conversation unfolded, Wan Zheng-Hao couldn't help but be amazed by Feng Zhi-Ling's knowledge and understanding of the salesroom's operations. His respect for the new Monarch grew with each revelation.
In contrast to Gu Jin-Long's fierce approach, Feng Zhi-Ling seemed like a gentle breeze that subtly reshaped people's thoughts. Wan Zheng-Hao, who held a higher position, now felt a sincere and deep respect for Feng Zhi-Ling that emanated from his heart.
Feng Zhi-Ling held the key not only to Wan Zheng-Hao's survival but also to every facet of his life, from his weight to his pleasures, and even the possibility of regaining his male capabilities. Step by step, Wan Zheng-Hao's loyalty to Feng Zhi-Ling solidified into a profound and unwavering commitment.
It was a complete and unconditional loyalty, a shift from one master to another, with the promise of unprecedented profits that Wan Zheng-Hao had never dared to dream of in the past.
In his new role, Wan Zheng-Hao couldn't help but reflect on how perfect his situation would be if he had never consumed that ill-fated meal, where every dish had been cooked with his own fat.
Meanwhile, in the Royal Palace, a somber atmosphere prevailed as the king's second war affairs meeting entered its second day, shrouded in sorrow.
The kingdom was in dire straits, and officials, both good and bad, were pooling their intellects to devise strategies to save it. The imminent crisis had spurred them all into action, each striving to come up with a practical method to rescue the kingdom from its predicament.
In the military circles, the sentiment was unanimous: they were ready to join the battle, fully aware of the likelihood of defeat but determined to offer their strength in defense of the kingdom. The situation was grave, and the soldiers were willing to shed their blood to protect their homeland.
Numerous proposals had been put forth, all with the singular objective of defense and delay. The longer they could hold off the war, the better their chances of a favorable turn of events.
One approach that had gained traction was the 'Tortoise Tactic' in all four battles. This strategy called for a defensive stance, with the kingdom's forces retreating and refusing to engage the enemy, regardless of provocations. The idea was to draw the enemy into their fortified camps, where they would face a formidable defense. It was a tactic that had stirred mixed emotions, particularly among the military officials.
The Prime Minister Zuo's analogy of likening them to tortoises had raised eyebrows and, in some cases, sparked frustration. However, after several rounds of discussions, the officials reluctantly acknowledged that the Tortoise Tactic was perhaps the most practical and effective approach under the current circumstances.
The fortified camps were to be the linchpin of this strategy, with elaborate traps and defenses to deter enemy forces. By refusing to engage in direct combat, the kingdom aimed to force the enemy into a stalemate.
The officials laid out a plan: first, the royal stockpile of resources would remain untouched, while food and materials would be gathered from across the kingdom. Price controls would be swiftly implemented to prevent market disruptions. All cities would be instructed to transfer resources to ensure a steady supply for the impending battle. The royal stockpile, if managed carefully, could sustain the army for up to three years.
Additionally, a nationwide recruitment effort would be launched to enlist young soldiers, accompanied by increased incentives and penalties to motivate citizens to join the war effort. The king would issue a decree to reassure the populace.
Spies were to foment discord within the enemy kingdoms, sowing the seeds of internal strife. Covert operatives would infiltrate enemy territory to create chaos, even resorting to arson if necessary. Assassins would target enemy leaders and key figures, potentially causing upheaval in their ranks.
These were just a few of the hundreds of suggestions proposed during the extensive discussions that took place over two days. The recording officer diligently documented each recommendation.
Eventually, the marathon meeting in the main hall concluded. The king retired to his study, where he summoned two royal doctors and a master for a crucial inquiry.
"How is Cha-Eun Xiao in the House of Cha?" The king inquired directly, his concern palpable.
Master Sun, with a solemn expression, delivered the grim news, "It doesn't look good, Your Highness. He is unlikely to survive this ordeal. Despite our best efforts, including the use of a supreme dan bead, Cha-Eun Xiao's condition remains critical. He may have only ten days left."
The king fell silent, absorbing the unexpected prognosis. As Cha-Eun Xiao's life hung in the balance, it raised the inevitable question of Cha Nan-Tian's return.
"Your Highness, will General Cha return?" Master Sun asked cautiously, aware of the kingdom's perilous situation. "At this critical juncture, his presence, especially for his son's sake, may divert his focus from the needs of the kingdom."
The king sighed, a bitter smile tugging at his lips. He understood that some individuals might prioritize the war effort over personal matters. Prince Hua-Yang, for instance, would likely prioritize the battle, even if Su Ye-Yue were in danger. Yet, Cha Nan-Tian was different.
Cha Nan-Tian's loyalty and support stemmed from his desire to save his son, Cha-Eun Xiao. His unwavering devotion to his son had been evident in his actions, demonstrating that he was willing to sacrifice everything for Cha-Eun Xiao's well-being. The king recognized that Cha Nan-Tian was a man who could forsake all else for his son.
If Cha-Eun Xiao were in good health, Cha Nan-Tian would wholeheartedly devote himself to the battlefield, striking fear into the hearts of their adversaries. However, in the face of his son's peril, all priorities would shift.
Even if the king issued a hundred orders prohibiting Cha Nan-Tian's return, it was certain that Cha Nan-Tian would not hesitate to come back to his son's side.
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