I traveled back to the Qin Dynasty, and the First Emperor begged me to become his empress.

Chapter 139 Chunyu Yue's Mission to the State of Wei

Soon, the carriage carrying the mission to the State of Wei slowly started moving. Chunyu Yue, dressed in magnificent robes, stood with a solemn and resolute expression. From a young age, Chunyu Yue was well-versed in literature and poetry, possessing vast knowledge and renowned for his exceptional eloquence and wisdom. Now, shouldering a heavy responsibility and carrying the plan written by Ying Wuyou, he embarked on his long journey to the State of Wei with anticipation.

Chunyu Yue sat quietly in the carriage, his mind churning with thoughts. He knew that this mission was of great importance. If he could successfully persuade King Jia of Wei, it would bring immeasurable benefits to the Qin state, not only further strengthening its national power but also bringing true well-being to countless people.

Chunyu Yue sat in the carriage, pondering the difficulty and importance of this mission. He knew that although the State of Wei was weak and fearful of the State of Qin, the King of Wei was, after all, the ruler of a country, with his own dignity and prestige, and should not be pressured too much.

At this moment, the former glory of the Wei Kingdom had vanished. Under the covetous gaze of the surrounding powers, it appeared as a wounded, lonely bird, exceptionally weak and helpless. The streets were deserted, most shops were closed, and the entire country was permeated with an atmosphere of decay, as if it could be swallowed up by the powers at any moment.

Chunyu Yue's arrival was like a pebble thrown into a tranquil lake, instantly creating a tremendous upheaval in the previously oppressive and stagnant state of Wei. King Jia of Wei was filled with doubt; he couldn't understand why Qin would send an envoy at this time, especially one as renowned and influential as Chunyu Yue. However, King Jia had a clear and profound understanding of Wei's current predicament. He knew he bore the heavy responsibility of protecting Wei's state, so even with his inner turmoil, he could only do his utmost to ensure the smooth conduct of the reception.

When Chunyu Yue finally arrived in the capital of Wei, the entire city seemed shrouded in an inexplicable aura. King Wei feigned solemnity, leading a group of ministers in a quiet wait outside the palace gates. His eyes flickered with complex emotions, a mixture of nervousness in the face of the unknown and fear of the powerful Qin state. Yet, despite these feelings, he skillfully concealed them deep within his heart, relying on his years of experience as a king, and attempted to project the dignity and grandeur befitting Wei.

As Chunyu Yue slowly approached, King Wei spoke slowly: "Your Excellency Qin has graced us with your presence. You must be tired from your journey."

Upon seeing this, Chunyu Yue quickly returned the greeting respectfully. His tone was neither humble nor arrogant, perfectly showcasing his status and dignity as an envoy of Qin, while also conveying a peaceful and friendly attitude. He slowly said, "Your Majesty is too kind. I have come here on the orders of the King of Qin, solely to promote the well-being of both our countries. I hope to join hands with Your Majesty to create a better future together."

Upon entering the palace, Chunyu Yue calmly took out a plan written by Ying Wuyou from his bosom and handed it to the King of Wei, saying, "Your Majesty, this is a plan drafted by Princess Jiayang of Qin. Qin intends to establish an economic zone on Qin land on the border between Qin and Wei, which will greatly benefit both Wei and Qin."

King Wei, his hands trembling, accepted the plan and carefully reviewed it. Though filled with doubts, he dared not reveal them in the face of the powerful Qin envoy. Chunyu Yue, seeing this, chuckled inwardly and continued, “Your Majesty, once this economic zone is established, it will become a hub for trade between our two countries. Qin is rich in resources, possessing exquisite bronzes, sharp weapons, high-quality silk, and novelties such as soap and curved plows. Wei also has many specialties, such as delicious fruits, fine pottery, and superior timber. Through trade in this economic zone, goods from both countries can be exchanged, and the people can all benefit.”

At this moment, Chunyu Yue, seeing the King of Wei's nervous expression, said in a more casual tone, "King of Wei, Qin's move is a gift to Wei. If we can seize this opportunity, Wei will surely be able to gradually restore its national strength, and the people will be able to live a better life."

Just then, an elderly minister stepped forward. His already somewhat anxious face was now filled with deep worry, as if he were carrying a heavy burden. He said to King Jia of Wei, who was seated on the throne, "Your Majesty, the Qin state is extremely powerful. Such actions probably have a hidden purpose. We must not agree so easily; we must consider this carefully."

Chunyu Yue, standing to the side, flashed a cold glint in his eyes. He glanced at the minister who had spoken out in question, a hint of displeasure in his eyes, and then spoke loudly: "How dare you! How can you people question the decisions made by the Qin state? The establishment of this economic zone is a gesture of goodwill from the Qin state towards our Wei state. In order to fully express this sincerity, Princess Jiayang has even specifically proposed a comprehensive repair of the road between Wei and the economic zone."

Upon hearing this, King Jia of Wei showed a deep look of doubt on his face. He frowned and asked uncertainly, "Does Your Excellency mean that Qin is actually willing to build a road for Wei to that economic zone?"

Chunyu Yue nodded solemnly, his face serious, and said, “That’s right. Princess Jiayang is kind-hearted. She knows that Wei is currently in a very difficult situation, so she is willing to take the initiative to build this cement road leading to the economic zone for you. Moreover, both the manpower and the technology will be fully handled by our Great Qin, and Wei only needs to provide the corresponding funds. In this way, not only will the connection and exchange between the two countries be strengthened, but it will also bring new opportunities and hope for the development of our Wei.”

With a solemn and slightly uneasy expression, King Wei asked, "I wonder how much silver it will cost to build this cement road?"

Chunyu Yue raised his head slightly, his expression revealing a sense of composure and certainty, and slowly said, "In the past, Princess Jiayang built a wide road 50 miles west of Xianyang City for only 50 taels of silver. Now, the Wei Kingdom needs the same price. As for how long and how much to build this road, you can discuss it yourselves."

Duan Ganchong's expression grew increasingly grave, a hint of worry flashing in his eyes. He stared intently at Chunyu Yue, his tone slightly anxious as he said, "Even so, our Great Wei may still find itself in a rather unfavorable position in this cooperation. Qin has always been powerful; if it firmly establishes its dominance in trade, wouldn't our Great Wei suffer unnecessary losses? How should we then deal with such a change in the situation?" His words were filled with concern and unease about the future.

Chunyu Yue said impatiently, "Hmph, would Qin treat Wei unfairly? In the economic zone, it will naturally follow the principles of fairness and justice, so Wei has nothing to worry about. Moreover, through cooperation, Wei can learn Qin's advanced technology, which is something you've been hoping for."

"Furthermore, the establishment of the economic zone will drive the development of the surrounding areas. The people living on the border between Qin and Wei are suffering. If the economic zone prospers, their livelihoods will be improved, and they will be able to live and work in peace and contentment. This is a benevolent act, and King Wei will surely win the love and respect of the people." Chunyu Yue's words were earnest, but his tone carried an undeniable authority.

King Jia of Wei listened to the debate between his ministers and Chunyu Yue, his mind racing. He thought that Wei was indeed in a difficult situation, and if it didn't seize this opportunity, it would be difficult to escape its predicament. But was Qin's purpose really just to promote economic exchange? What if it was a trap? Wei would be doomed. But if he refused, he feared offending Qin and incurring its retaliation. King Jia of Wei was torn, unsure of what to do.

King Jia of Wei silently weighed the pros and cons in his mind. He understood that this decision concerned the future of the Wei Kingdom. After a long while, King Jia of Wei spoke again: "What the Qin envoy said is not without reason. However, this matter is of great importance. I would like to ask your esteemed envoy to go to the post station to rest first, and allow me and my ministers to discuss it before making a decision."

Seeing that no conclusion could be reached today, Chunyu Yue responded to the King of Wei's suggestion without hesitation, saying, "Your Majesty is wise. I believe that after discussing with your ministers, Your Majesty will make a wise decision. Qin looks forward to creating a bright future together with Wei." After saying this, Chunyu Yue turned and strode away.