Daqin arrests alchemists, what does it matter to me as a qi refiner?

Seeing the unwavering look in Ying Zheng's eyes, Yang Ling knew he was a man who would repay kindness. So he nodded and said, "Since Your Majesty has such a heart, it would be disrespectful of me to refuse. However, we can discuss the matter of repayment later. Right now, the most important thing is for you to rest well."

Ying Zheng heeded Yang Ling's advice and went back to bed. He did feel that his body was still weak and needed time to recover. But he understood that as long as he was alive, there was no limit to what was possible and what was hopeful.

Fusu stayed in the tent to keep his father company. Gazing at his father's peaceful sleeping face, his heart was filled with gratitude and love. He knew his father was his heaven and his support. Now the gloom had dissipated, and the future was full of bright hope.

In the days that followed, Ying Zheng gradually recovered under Yang Ling's meticulous care. Fu Su remained by his side throughout, looking after him and staying by his side. Having gone through this life-or-death ordeal, the bond between father and son deepened even further.

Yang Ling's medical skills and compassionate heart became legendary in Qin. Upon hearing this, Yang Ling nodded slightly, saying nothing more. He knew Ying Zheng's character well, understanding that he meant what he said and that today's kindness would surely be repaid in the future. Yang Ling's own act of saving Ying Zheng was not for personal gain. He was willing to help Ying Zheng not only because of Fusu's earnest filial piety, but also because he had witnessed Ying Zheng's great talent and his deep concern for the country and its people.

In the days that followed, Ying Zheng gradually recovered under the meticulous care of Fusu and Yang Ling. During this time, Fusu also gained a deeper understanding of his father's governing philosophy and magnanimity. He realized that his father's poisoning was most likely the work of those treacherous enemies. For the future of the Qin Dynasty and for his father's safety, Fusu knew he had to become stronger and more capable.

That day, Ying Zheng summoned Fusu and said earnestly, "Fusu, my son, you have grown up. It's time for you to shoulder more responsibilities. I have decided to entrust you with the military affairs of Qin. Do you have confidence?"

Upon hearing his father's words, Fusu was deeply moved. He knew this was his father's trust and expectation of him. He nodded solemnly: "Father, I have confidence. I will do my utmost to handle military affairs and contribute to the future of the Qin Dynasty."

Ying Zheng gazed at Fusu, his eyes filled with satisfaction and admiration. He knew his son was ready to face even greater challenges. He gently patted Fusu's shoulder: "Good, I believe in you. Go forth, with your wisdom and courage, and create a new era of glory for the Qin Dynasty."

Fusu gripped his father's hands tightly, his eyes shining with unwavering determination. He knew the road ahead was long, but with his father's trust and support, he possessed boundless strength.

In the years that followed, Fusu devoted himself to the military affairs of Qin. He diligently studied military strategy and governance, constantly improving his own abilities and qualities. At the same time, he actively communicated and consulted with court officials, humbly listening to their advice. Under Fusu's efforts, the Qin army became increasingly elite and powerful, and national defense became more solid.

Yang Ling remained by Ying Zheng's side, both to help with the emperor's health and to offer valuable advice on governing the country. Ying Zheng's trust in and reliance on Yang Ling grew daily, and their relationship transcended that of ruler and subject, becoming more like that of close friends.

On this day, Ying Zheng hosted a banquet in the palace to entertain Yang Ling and Fusu. During the banquet, he said with emotion, "Mr. Yang, Fusu, it is truly a great fortune for Ying Zheng to have you by my side. Come, let me toast you."

Yang Ling and Fusu raised their cups in return. Yang Ling smiled and said, "Your Majesty is too kind. It is our honor to serve you."

Fusu echoed, "Indeed, Father. As long as you give the order, Mr. Yang and I are willing to go through fire and water for you."

Hearing their words, Ying Zheng was deeply moved and filled with pride. He rose and said loudly, "Excellent! With your words, how can I, Ying Zheng, worry about the stability of the world or the consolidation of the empire! Come, let us drink this cup together, for the future of the Qin Dynasty, and for our friendship and ideals!"

The three raised their glasses in a toast, their spirits soaring. They knew the road ahead would be long and arduous, but with mutual trust and support, and shared ideals and goals, they were confident they could overcome all difficulties and create a brilliant future together.

The banquet continued amidst laughter and song. Outside the palace, the night sky was ablaze with stars, and the moonlight shone like water, as if witnessing this profound friendship and lofty aspirations…

As time passed, Fusu's military talents became increasingly apparent, and his army repeatedly achieved great feats on the battlefield, striking fear into the hearts of the enemy. Meanwhile, Yang Ling remained in the palace to help Ying Zheng recuperate, and the friendship between the two deepened.

That day, Yang Ling was taking Ying Zheng's pulse when he suddenly frowned, his expression grave. Ying Zheng's heart tightened at the sight: "Mr. Yang, could it be that my health is not good again?" Yang Ling was silent for a moment before slowly saying, "Your Majesty's health has basically recovered. However... I sensed an unusual aura in your pulse. This aura is not ordinary, and it is difficult to determine its source and influence."

Ying Zheng was secretly alarmed upon hearing this, but quickly regained his composure. He knew Yang Ling's medical skills were extraordinary; if he had detected the abnormal pulse, it must be no small matter. He asked in a deep voice, "In your opinion, what effect will this unusual aura have on my imperial body?"

Yang Ling shook his head: "Your Majesty, to be honest, I also find it difficult to say for sure. This aura is too peculiar, unlike anything I have ever seen before. But... I have a premonition that it may be detrimental to Your Majesty's health. I hope Your Majesty will be cautious."

Upon hearing Yang Ling's words, Ying Zheng felt a chill run down his spine. He knew he had always been healthy, and apart from the previous poisoning, he had never experienced any unusual symptoms. Could it be... that this abnormality was related to the poisoning incident? Or... was someone secretly plotting against him?

Thinking of this, Ying Zheng's gaze suddenly sharpened. He knew he had many enemies, but those who could secretly strike must be treacherous and powerful adversaries. He resolved to uncover the truth and expose the mastermind behind it all.

Therefore, he dispatched his most trusted confidants to investigate the matter. At the same time, he strengthened his own defenses to prevent any further unforeseen events.

However, just as the investigation was in full swing, an unexpected turn of events occurred.

That night, the moon was dark and the wind was high. Most of the palace lights had been extinguished, leaving only a few faint glows. Ying Zheng was troubled by Yang Ling's words and tossed and turned on his bed, unable to sleep.

Suddenly, a faint sound came from outside the window. Immediately afterward, a dark figure swiftly swept across the window frame and landed in front of the bed. Ying Zheng was startled, but quickly regained his composure. He knew that the person he was waiting for had finally appeared.

The assassin was dressed in black, his face covered by a veil, revealing only a pair of icy eyes. He held a short, gleaming blade, pointing it directly at Ying Zheng's throat. However, just as he was about to succeed, Ying Zheng suddenly spoke.

"Your Excellency's visit so late at night, what brings you here?" Ying Zheng's tone was calm and authoritative, seemingly not taking the assassin before him seriously at all.

The assassin was slightly surprised, clearly not expecting Ying Zheng to be so calm. He coldly laughed, "Ying Zheng, your death is imminent. Tonight is the night you die!"

Upon hearing this, Ying Zheng showed no fear whatsoever. He calmly replied, "Oh? Really? Your confidence is quite admirable. However, taking my life in front of me won't be so easy."

Anger flashed in the assassin's eyes. He gripped his short blade tightly and thrust it at Ying Zheng. But at that moment, a golden light streaked past, and the assassin felt a numbness in his wrist as his weapon slipped from his grasp.

It was Yang Ling! He had appeared before Ying Zheng's bedside at some point, holding a golden needle in his hand. The golden light from before was the hidden weapon he had launched.

The assassin was shocked. Knowing his whereabouts had been exposed and he would have no chance to succeed, he turned to flee, but Yang Ling grabbed his collar.

"Trying to escape? Not so easy!" Yang Ling said coldly. He exerted force and threw the assassin to the ground.

The assassin struggled to his feet, attempting to escape, but Yang Ling gave him no chance. In a flash, he caught up with the assassin, and the two engaged in a fierce battle. Their movements were as swift as lightning, leaving the onlookers breathless. (End of Chapter)