Chapter 147 - 124: Mother and Son Compete for Favor

He was originally an ordinary craftsman from the Ministry of Industry. When Emperor Jing seized the throne, he joined Emperor Jing’s camp. After Emperor Jing ascended to the throne, he promoted him to replace the former Minister of Industry.

Seeing all things arranged properly, Emperor Jing felt slightly relieved, but did not forget to admonish, "Beiguan is the gateway to the northern borders of Da Jing. We cannot afford any losses. All my beloved ministers must work together to overcome this difficulty!"

The ministers responded in unison, "We will do our utmost to ensure the everlasting stability of Da Jing!"

Emperor Jing nodded slightly and then waved his hand, signaling to adjourn the court.

After the ministers had withdrawn, Emperor Jing sat alone on the dragon throne, gazing at the darkening sky outside the hall, his mind full of thoughts.

He had only been on the throne for four years when faced with the threatening alliance of the three kingdoms. Whether Da Jing’s empire could safely pass through this calamity was still unknown.

However, as the ruler of a nation, he must remain calm and lead the ministers to overcome the difficulties together.

He rubbed his slightly sore brow and turned to look at Li Zhongxin.

"Go and deliver my decree, instructing the guard to strengthen the defense of the Imperial Palace. The palace’s safety must be ensured."

Li Zhongxin immediately responded, "As you command!"

Li Zhongxin carefully walked out to deliver the decree with small steps, while Emperor Jing leaned back against the dragon throne, closing his eyes slightly.

In his heart, he silently recited, "May Tianyou aid Da Jing, ensuring the everlasting stability of the empire."

"Boom!"

A flash of lightning crossed the sky, followed by a sudden thunderous roar, startling Emperor Jing into sitting upright.

Outside the hall, the night grew darker. As the thunder rumbled, it began to rain heavily. The thunderous and lightning-filled night sky seemed to herald the severity of the battle at Beiguan...

... Here comes the enchanting dividing line ...

Zhao Zun and his party returned to the newly acquired residence at dinner time.

The sky was dim and overcast, making the courtyard with its bluish-grey bricks and dark tiles appear particularly peaceful.

Zhao Zun and Han Lei had just returned from the mountains, still carrying the lingering scent of mud and grass, with indescribable sorrow weighing heavily on their hearts.

Upon entering the courtyard, they heard the old lady was in the dining room. Zhao Zun stopped the servants from announcing their arrival and immediately led Han Lei to pay respects to the old lady.

The old lady and Zhao Ling’er were eating dinner in the dining room. Upon hearing Zhao Ling’er suddenly call out "Brother," the old lady immediately raised her head.

Seeing her son, who went to battle, appear unexpectedly before her, the old lady thought she must be mistaken. After rubbing her eyes, her wrinkled eyes instantly became moist.

She set down her bowl and chopsticks and stood up, her voice choked with emotion.

"Zun, Zun, you’ve truly come back?"

Zhao Zun hurried forward, taking the old lady’s hand. Looking at his mother’s face, which appeared older than other women her age, his heart ached.

He took a deep breath, gently patted the back of the old lady’s hand, and said in a low voice, "Mother, I am unfilial for making you worry."

The old lady shook her head, tears sliding down her cheeks, "It’s good that you’re back, it’s good you’re back. I can finally ease my heart."

Zhao Ling’er, unable to contain herself, fluttered beside Zhao Zun and Han Lei like a jubilant bird, chattering endlessly while holding their hands.

"Brother, Ping Chuan said, with Han Lei’s sister gone, you would be safe, and unexpectedly it was true."

Zhao Ling’er’s voice was crisp and pleasant, echoing in the hall like a string of silver bells.

However, Zhao Zun and Han Lei’s mood was far from light. Facing Zhao Ling’er’s joy, they managed only a forced smile, hiding profound grief in their eyes.

The old lady noticed their unusual demeanor, and her heart sank.

She gently tugged Zhao Ling’er’s sleeve, signaling her to quiet down.

"Zun, was your journey smooth? On the battlefield... were you injured?" The old lady’s words carried a mother’s care.

Zhao Zun paused in silence and slowly shook his head.

"Mother, I’m fine, it’s just..." He hesitated and then spoke in a more subdued tone, "Just some brothers didn’t return."

Upon hearing this, the old lady’s face turned somewhat pale. She tightly grasped Zhao Zun’s hand and asked tremblingly, "How many people... couldn’t return?"

Zhao Zun lowered his head, his voice hoarse, "Over ten brothers died to protect me in battle. Their bodies have been buried on the mountains near the cement factory."

The old lady’s tears welled up once more. Despite her advanced age, her heart was filled with respect and sadness for these young lives.

She choked up, saying, "They were good children... Sacrificing their lives to protect you. I may not know all of them, but their kindness will be remembered in my heart for life. I will prepare to pay tribute to them tomorrow."