"Is this to announce my reassignment?" Zhao Feng wondered internally.
Wang Jian's presence here undoubtedly meant there was important business. It was likely related to the broader war effort, not simply about him. Perhaps it was a matter of convenience for the general.
"This time, I should be able to receive several treasure chests," Zhao Feng thought with great anticipation.
Soon enough, the soldiers in the camp were all assembled, standing in formation and ready.
"Today!"
"This general has come here for two matters!"
"The first."
"Regarding the failure at Yangcheng and the attack we suffered, General Li Teng bears inescapable responsibility. By royal decree, this general holds Li Teng accountable under military law."
"If such negligence in commanding troops happens again, Li Teng will be immediately handed over to the Central Military Commander for disciplinary action."
Wang Jian's stern expression and resolute tone filled the air with a palpable sense of pressure, leaving every soldier in awe.
Li Teng, standing to one side, didn't dare make a sound or even breathe too loudly.
"The second."
Wang Jian paused, his gaze shifting toward Zhao Feng, who stood just outside the formation.
"By royal decree, rewards are to be given to the one who prevented the sabotage of our supply lines, destroyed the enemy forces, and innovated a medical treatment to save our injured soldiers. This person is a great contributor to our nation," Wang Jian declared loudly.
No one in the camp was surprised by this announcement. Zhao Feng's contributions were already widely known.
"Zhao Feng!" Wang Jian called out in a commanding tone.
"Present!"
Zhao Feng immediately stepped forward and bowed respectfully.
"Hear the decree of the King!"
Wang Jian unfurled a royal edict, and as he opened it, every soldier and officer present bowed deeply.
"We humbly await the King's decree!"
"Zhao Feng, Captain of Logistics Corps, has demonstrated outstanding service for the nation, courageously defeating the enemy and preventing disaster. His medical innovations have also saved many of Qin's wounded soldiers, which is a great merit deserving of high reward.
"Now, Zhao Feng is to be transferred to the main combat forces and appointed as a senior officer of the army!"
"Zhao Feng is promoted by four ranks to become a Duwei (Major) and Military Commander, commanding 5,000 troops!"
"Zhao Feng's noble title is elevated by five levels to that of Guan Daifu (Ranked Gentleman)!"
"Military salary, noble income, and land grants will all be distributed as per military regulations after the war concludes."
Wang Jian's voice resounded across the training grounds.
Hearing this decree, all the officers and soldiers were visibly stunned.
"The King is being incredibly generous, promoting Zhao Feng by four ranks and elevating his noble title by five levels."
"Indeed, this is an extraordinary reward."
"A four-rank promotion was expected, but advancing five noble levels? That's beyond anyone's imagination."
Even Zhao Feng himself was taken aback.
"Qin Shi Huang is being too generous!"
"Nine treasure chests all at once?" Zhao Feng thought, his heart pounding with excitement.
While the official titles didn't mean much to him, the treasure chests earned with each promotion were treasures he couldn't ignore. He could hardly wait to see what they held.
"Zhao Feng, aren't you going to accept the decree?" Wang Jian asked with a smile when he saw Zhao Feng standing frozen.
"Your subordinate, Zhao Feng, accepts the decree!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty, for your great kindness," Zhao Feng said as he stepped forward, bowing deeply to receive the royal edict.
"Bring forth the Duwei armor and sword!" Wang Jian ordered with a smile.
An attendant immediately stepped forward with a box containing a black suit of armor and a sword that symbolized his new rank.
Zhao Feng took them without hesitation.
"From this day forward," Wang Jian declared, "you are no longer part of the logistics corps but a Duwei and Military Commander in Qin's main combat forces."
"Your responsibilities now extend beyond merely fighting on the battlefield; you will command 5,000 elite troops under your direct authority."
"Understand the gravity of your new duties." Wang Jian's tone turned serious.
"Understood!" Zhao Feng replied firmly, accepting the weight of his new role.
"The King places great trust in you and expects you to continue achieving great things for Qin." Wang Jian smiled and patted Zhao Feng on the shoulder.
Then, turning to the assembled soldiers, Wang Jian addressed them loudly:
"Zhao Feng's promotion today demonstrates the effectiveness of Qin's merit-based military system."
"In Qin, rank and reward are not determined by birth but by ability and merit. Kill the enemy, perform meritorious deeds, and you shall be rewarded!"
"I hope to see more of you following Zhao Feng's example. I look forward to personally announcing future promotions for our deserving soldiers."
Hearing this, the soldiers' eyes filled with admiration and aspiration. Inspired by Zhao Feng's success, they were eager to prove themselves in battle and earn their rewards.
"So I've become a role model now," Zhao Feng thought, realizing Wang Jian's true intent.
Wang Jian had used him as a living example to motivate and inspire the entire army.
"Originally, I wanted to keep a low profile, but it seems I can't anymore," Zhao Feng sighed internally.
"Also, where will I be stationed?" Zhao Feng asked, curious about his new assignment.
"General Li Teng," Wang Jian said, turning to Li Teng, "have you made the arrangements?"
"Rest assured, General Wang. Everything will be ready within a day," Li Teng replied respectfully.
"Tomorrow, report to this training ground and assume command of your 5,000 troops," Wang Jian said to Zhao Feng.