NOVEL WEB Chapter 12: 12
Character's Age: 13
Date: 245 BCE
Location: Qin Kingdom
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The Beginning of the Kingdom Narrative
Today marks the official beginning of the Kingdom manga's storyline. Over the past few years, my life has undergone many changes. These changes have not only occurred within the political and military structure of Qin but also in my personal journey. The successes I've achieved so far are merely a prelude. Yet today, this may be the first day to define the direction my fate will take in this world.
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Ei Sei's Coronation Ceremony
Three months ago, I attended the coronation ceremony of Ei Sei, the new King of Qin. As depicted in the original work, Ei Sei gave off the impression of a young, determined, and charismatic leader. The atmosphere in the palace was tense, filled with nobles and bureaucrats who were reluctant to accept the authority of this youthful ruler.
At the ceremony, I presented him with a simple yet meaningful gift: one of the first prototypes of our plows. "This plow symbolizes the future prosperity of your people," I said. Ei Sei carefully examined the gift and thanked me with a slight smile. However, our interaction did not extend much beyond that. The days when he would truly prove himself as a leader were drawing near.
My presence at the ceremony was brief. I noticed some nobles gazing at me with surprise, bewildered by my baronial title at such a young age. One of them sneered, "A baron at this age? Are we playing children's games?" However, when I displayed my baronial insignia, their derision turned into silent astonishment. "Titles are not earned by age, but by skill," I stated before departing amidst an air of muted acknowledgment.
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Chess with Sho Hei Kun
During the ceremony, I had the chance to converse with Sho Hei Kun, one of the pillars supporting Ryu Fui. Sho Hei Kun, one of the greatest strategists in Qin within the Kingdom universe, was both an honor and a test to meet.
After observing me briefly, Sho Hei Kun spoke with a calm expression, "Young baron, I've heard much about your strategic acumen. Would you care to demonstrate your true talents?" He had a chessboard brought to the table, and we began the game.
Throughout the match, I could feel the depth of his foresight and analytical prowess. I carefully analyzed his moves and responded, but within a few rounds, he completely took control of the game. When he made his final move and won, a faint smile appeared on his face.
"At this age, such advanced strategic thinking… Truly impressive. I have no doubt you will improve even further in a few years."
While I accepted this as a compliment, I was inwardly frustrated by my defeat. Calming myself, I replied, "You praise me too highly, Sho Hei Kun. I still have a long way to go to become a true strategist." He nodded silently and said,
"Time will tell," before walking away.
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The Shadow of Ryu Fui
After my conversation with Sho Hei Kun, I noticed Ryu Fui observing me from a distance. His sharp eyes and ever-calculating mind seemed to permeate every corner of the palace. Despite Ei Sei's ascension, it was clear that Ryu Fui's power remained intact.
Though he did not speak to me directly, I sensed that he was beginning to perceive me either as a threat or an opportunity. "This man is worth an army within Qin," I thought. However, I knew better than to confront him directly. "The time to deal with him will come, but not now."
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Return to Kai City
When I decided to leave the ceremony, I set out from the Qin capital to return to my city, Kai City. Built under my vision, Kai City was a fortified city. It served not only as a center of trade and agriculture but also as a strategic military base. With its walls, military barracks, and trade routes, the city had become one of Qin's vital points.
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Reflections on the Journey
After departing the capital, our caravan progressed toward Kai City. Alongside my guards were architects and craftsmen I had brought for new projects. My thoughts during the journey revolved around the upcoming events of the Kingdom storyline.
"Will Sho Bun Kun come for Piao around this time?" I pondered. Piao was destined to become a pivotal figure in this world, but I knew he was not as vulnerable as he was in the original narrative.
"Piao is now worth an army on his own. But has fate begun to change? Is his death still an inevitable certainty, or can I alter it?" These thoughts occupied my mind as our caravan quietly moved forward.
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Next Steps: Strengthening the Fortress City
Upon arriving in Kai City, my primary goal will be to further strengthen the city. I plan to enhance both its military and commercial capacities with new projects. Additionally, I eagerly await the arrival of Sho Bun Kun to see how fate will unfold in this world.
"This world is no longer just a manga; it's my life. Here, I am not merely an observer but an actor." With this thought, I began preparing for the events to come.
Present Day: In the Field of Training
On a vast plain, Shin, Piao, and I continue our sword-fighting training. The sky is clear, the sun is shining overhead, and a gentle breeze cools the metal surfaces of our armor. We are clad in armor specially designed in Kai City. Lightweight yet durable, it provides excellent protection without limiting our mobility.
Shin, as always, is brimming with energy. His muscular physique, a result of intense physical training, embodies the ideal form of a warrior. Piao, on the other hand, carries himself with a simple yet elegant demeanor. His brilliance lies in his strategic mind and leadership skills, though physically he lags slightly behind Shin and me.
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Facing Shin One-on-One
Today, Shin and I decided to spar in a one-on-one sword fight. Piao watched from the sidelines, occasionally offering strategic advice. When I saw the excitement and determination on Shin's face, the competitive fire within me ignited.
"Are you ready, Zhi Yong?" Shin asked, swinging his sword through the air with a flourish.
I replied with a smile, "Always ready, Shin. Let's see if you can beat me this time."
As expected, Shin began with a direct assault. His sword traced an arc through the air, swiftly slashing toward me. It was as if my Mind of the Strategist ability activated—I anticipated his move before he even made it.
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The First Strike: Clash of Blades
To counter Shin's powerful strike, I held my sword horizontally. The metallic clang of our swords colliding echoed across the field. The force of his attack pushed me back a few steps.
"Not bad," I remarked with a faint smile. "But I was expecting better."
Shin swung his sword again, this time with greater speed. His instinctive movements reflected his straightforward fighting style. But I knew this style all too well. Parrying his blows, I seized an opening and aimed a slash at his right shoulder. Shin dodged with a quick step and attempted a counterattack.
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Speed vs. Strategy
Shin's attacks were powerful, but mine were more strategic. By using my speed and intelligence, I predicted his moves and adjusted my defense accordingly. At one point, Shin swung his sword upward in a rising slash. Seeing the attack, I ducked under his blade and retaliated with a strike of my own.
When my sword lightly grazed his armor, Shin smiled.
"This time, I've got you!" he exclaimed, stepping back to prepare for another charge.
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The Critical Moment: Shin's Power
Shin's next move relied entirely on brute strength. Gripping his sword tightly with both hands, he delivered a colossal strike. Blocking the blow wasn't easy. Holding my sword in a defensive position, I absorbed the impact, but the force knocked me down to one knee.
Seeing an opportunity, Shin pressed the attack. But just as he moved in, I launched an upward swing with a burst of speed, deflecting his blade.
"You'll need to do better than that, Shin," I said as I stood back up. "Strength alone isn't enough—you need to be quick and perceptive as well."
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Tactics and Endurance
As our sparring continued, Shin's strikes became faster and more aggressive. However, his energetic attacks provided me with opportunities to exploit his openings. I analyzed each move, waiting for the right moment to turn the tide.
Eventually, I executed a maneuver that disrupted Shin's balance. With a swift step to the right, I dodged his swing, leaving his sword to cut through empty air. Taking advantage of the opening, I launched an attack of my own. Yet Shin's quick reflexes allowed him to evade my strike and counter.
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The Final Move: Shin's Counterattack
With his characteristic energy, Shin launched another attack. This time, however, he employed a more strategic approach. Feinting a strike to the right, he swiftly shifted to the left. This unexpected maneuver left a gap in my defense. When the tip of his sword lightly tapped my armor, he grinned triumphantly.
"I won!" he declared with pride.
I responded with a smile, "I underestimated you this time, Shin. Enjoy this victory, because next time, I'll defeat you for sure."
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Piao's Commentary
As our sparring came to an end, Piao approached us with a calm expression.
"Shin, you were more strategic this time, which is an improvement. But did you notice how Zhi Yong easily anticipated some of your moves? This should be a lesson for you about the importance of leadership and strategy."
Shin nodded solemnly and replied, "You're right, Piao. I still have a lot to work on. But Zhi Yong, one day I'll truly defeat you."
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Conclusion: Rivalry and Brotherhood
This training session was not just a physical contest but a symbol of our friendship and rivalry. Shin and I were like two brothers,
Shin and Piao's Rivalry
After my duel with Shin ended, I stepped aside, tired but satisfied. However, the excitement on Shin's face hadn't faded. Lifting his sword once more, he turned to Piao with a challenging tone:
"So, Piao. Are you ready? Now it's your turn to fight me!"
Piao, with his usual calm and strategic demeanor, replied,
"Really? Shin, if your opponent is someone like me—a strategist—it's not very wise to be so confident."
Shin let out a mocking laugh and swung his sword in the air again.
"This will be our 4,124th match, Piao. I currently have 2,065 victories. I'm ahead, and with this fight, I'll make it 2,066!"
Hearing Shin's challenge, Piao raised his eyebrows slightly, picked up his sword, and stepped calmly into the fighting area. "Alright, Shin. Show me your superiority, then," he said. Meanwhile, I moved to the sidelines to watch. Excitement and curiosity stirred within me, as Shin and Piao's fights always turned into both a physical and mental battle.
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The First Move: Shin's Overwhelming Strength
Shin charged toward Piao with incredible speed. His intention to attack directly was so apparent that it seemed to echo in the minds of those watching. Clutching his sword tightly with both hands, he brought it down in a powerful overhead slash.
"Here I come, Piao!" he yelled.
But Piao, as if he had foreseen the move, swiftly sidestepped, letting Shin's blade slice through the air. He then countered, swinging his sword upward in an attempt to throw Shin off balance. Shin noticed this attack just in time and retreated to evade it.
"Not bad, but you won't beat me with such simple moves!" he shouted.
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Piao's Strategic Attacks
Piao used his agility to deflect Shin's direct attacks. His fighting style was more calculated and deliberate. Every move he made aimed to disrupt Shin's balance and exploit his openings.
"Shin, you can't win with strength alone. You need to think a little more before acting," Piao remarked calmly.
Shin appeared irritated by these words. He swung his sword again, this time attempting a faster and more complex combination of strikes. Yet Piao deftly parried each of them, retaliating with counters that put Shin on the defensive.
At one point, Piao aimed a precise slash at Shin's right shoulder. Shin quickly raised his sword to block, but the force of Piao's move destabilized him, forcing him to step back.
"That's not enough, Shin," Piao said in a calm but challenging tone.
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Shin's Counterattack
After retreating, Shin took a deep breath and fixed his gaze on Piao. "Alright, Piao. If it's strategy you want, I'll meet you with strategy!" he declared.
This time, Shin abandoned his straightforward attacks and adopted a more calculated approach. He began swinging his sword from different angles, attempting to create an opening in Piao's defense. This new tactic posed a greater challenge for Piao, who found himself momentarily pressured. With a series of quick moves, Shin managed to break through Piao's guard and lightly tap his armor with the tip of his sword.
"This time, I'm going to win, Piao!" Shin shouted triumphantly.
Piao smiled faintly at Shin's move. "You haven't won yet, Shin," he said before launching a counterattack. With a swift upward swing, he unbalanced Shin again, forcing him into a defensive position.
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The Final Move: Piao's Strategy
The duel had reached its peak intensity. Both combatants were starting to tire, but Shin's energy still seemed boundless. Piao, on the other hand, remained calm and composed, patiently waiting for an opening.
Finally, Piao found the opportunity he'd been waiting for. As Shin executed a powerful strike, he momentarily lost his balance. Piao moved swiftly, stepping behind Shin and lightly tapping his armor with his sword.
"That's it, Shin. This time, I win," Piao said calmly.
Shin had no choice but to accept defeat, but a grin spread across his face.
"Alright, Piao. You've won this round. But that doesn't mean you'll beat me next time!" he declared.
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My Observation
Watching this fight, I realized how much Shin had grown. He was no longer just an instinctive warrior but also a leader who understood the value of strategy. Piao, as always, remained the calm and brilliant strategist. This duel highlighted not only their individual strengths but also the mutual respect they held for each other.
As I watched them, a thought took root in my mind:
"One day, I will become the greatest general in history. Shin will be my right hand, and Piao my left. Together, we will achieve greatness!"
Shin's Defeat and an Unexpected Visitor
After losing to Piao, Shin once again lifted his sword, clearly ready for another challenge. Determination burned on his face as he declared,
"Piao, this isn't over! Let's fight again. This time, I'll defeat you!"
Piao, exhausted but composed, sheathed his sword and replied,
"Shin, no matter how hard you try, without strategy and calmness, you won't surpass me."
Just then, I noticed a horse-drawn carriage approaching along the dirt path. The carriage was simple in appearance, but the guards surrounding it immediately caught my attention. They weren't ordinary escorts; they were elite warriors. My eyes widened as the carriage stopped and a figure stepped out: Sho Bun Kun!
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Meeting Sho Bun Kun for the First Time
Sho Bun Kun wasn't just drawn to our training; his gaze seemed particularly fixed on Piao. For a moment, his expression was frozen in astonishment. Piao's resemblance to King Ei Sei was undeniable. However, Sho Bun Kun first walked toward me, bowing respectfully as he spoke,
"Zhi Yong, correct? I've heard of the young and talented baron. I've observed the work you've done over the years. Truly remarkable—you are well on your way to becoming an impressive leader and strategist."
Caught off guard by such high praise, I tried to conceal my surprise. Returning the gesture with equal respect, I replied,
"It is an honor to be recognized by someone of your stature, Sho Bun Kun. Please, be our guest in Kai City."
Sho Bun Kun smiled and nodded before turning his attention to Piao. His eyes studied Piao's face intently, as if he was trying to confirm something.
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Sho Bun Kun's Interest in Piao
Approaching Piao, Sho Bun Kun's demeanor turned serious.
"The resemblance... it's almost unbelievable. Your likeness to King Ei Sei hasn't escaped my notice."
Piao stepped back, his expression a mix of surprise and unease. "I am just Piao. I don't resemble anyone," he said, though Sho Bun Kun's interest only deepened.
Taking a deep breath, Sho Bun Kun continued,
"This resemblance cannot be a coincidence. I came to speak with you and your brother, but now I see it's imperative to take you directly to the King."
His words plunged the area into silence. Shin and I tried to process what was happening, while Piao's face turned serious.
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Seeking Clarity
Taking a step forward, I addressed Sho Bun Kun.
"Sho Bun Kun, what exactly do you mean? You're saying Piao needs to be taken to the King, but why? This is all so sudden."
Sho Bun Kun turned to me with a grave expression and replied,
"It's difficult to explain right now, but Piao may be deeply connected to King Ei Sei's destiny. Please trust me—this matter is crucial to the future of Qin."
The weight of his words made it clear that this was no simple matter. Sho Bun Kun's seriousness hinted at secrets about Piao's true identity. Before speaking further, I looked to Piao for his reaction.
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Piao's Decision
Piao remained silent for a moment before taking a deep breath and speaking in a resolute tone.
"If this truly concerns the future of Qin, then I must go. But Zhi Yong, Shin, I promise you this: no matter what happens, I will return one day."
Shin's reaction was immediate and explosive. Slamming his sword into the ground, he shouted,
"No! We won't let anyone take you, Piao! We're a team, a family! If you have to go, then I'll go with you to protect you!"
Piao smiled faintly at Shin's fiery response.
"Shin, this isn't a battle you can fight. This is a matter of destiny," he said.
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Sho Bun Kun's Assurance
Sho Bun Kun calmly addressed Shin's outburst.
"Young warrior, I understand your concern for your friend's safety. But trust me—his well-being is my priority as well."
He then turned to me and added,
"Zhi Yong, leaders like you are vital in this process. Protecting Piao and helping him fulfill his destiny is my task for now. But in the future, we will need your support as well. Qin's future depends on capable leaders like you."
His words managed to quell some of our frustration, though the difficulty of this separation was undeniable.
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Piao's Departure
Sho Bun Kun guided Piao toward the carriage. Before stepping in, Piao turned to us one last time, placing a fist over his chest in a gesture of solidarity.
"Zhi Yong, Shin, take care of yourselves. One day, I will return, and together we will change Qin."
Shin, still angry but determined, mirrored the gesture and shouted,
"Don't think for a second that we'll forget you, Piao! When you come back, we'll be stronger than ever!"
Taking a step forward, I also placed my fist over my chest.
"Safe travels, Piao. But remember, this story doesn't end here. Our fight is just beginning."
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The First Step of Destiny
Sho Bun Kun and Piao climbed into the carriage and set off. Shin stood silently, watching Piao disappear into the distance. This wasn't just the departure of a friend—it was a moment that carried the heavy weight of destiny. Yet, we knew this would only make us stronger. From this moment on, it wasn't just about protecting a friend; it was about safeguarding Qin's future.
"Following the path of destiny is never easy," I thought. "But we are not mere spectators. We will write this story with our own hands."
The Beginning of Preparations
After Sho Bun Kun took Piao away, a silence fell over Kai City. However, this quietness was merely the calm before the storm. Deep within, I could feel the tension of the approaching events. As someone who knew the original story, I was aware that this period would be one of Qin's most challenging. Before the rebellion began, I had to prepare myself both physically and mentally.
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Military Situation: Limitations and Solutions
As a baron, my military authority officially allowed me to command only 300 soldiers. While my city housed a 3,000-strong army, these troops were entirely focused on defending Kai City and couldn't be deployed for external missions. This limitation was a significant drawback in a world on the brink of war.
To overcome this issue, I devised a clever plan. From the 3,000 soldiers, I selected the most skilled and resilient 300. These soldiers stood out not only for their physical prowess but also for their combat abilities and leadership potential. I decided to subject them to even more rigorous training.
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System Quest: Strengthen Yourself
During this time, my system panel activated once more. A new quest appeared before my eyes:
Quest: Strengthen Yourself
Details: Complete the following exercises daily:
300 push-ups
300 sit-ups
300 pull-ups
20 km run
1,000 sword swings
Duration: 30 Days
Rewards:
+5 Strength
+5 Agility
+5 Swordsmanship
+5 Intelligence
This quest would test both my physical and mental endurance. However, I knew it wasn't just a challenge but a critical preparation phase for the upcoming rebellion and wars.
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Training the Elite 300
The 300 elite soldiers would play a crucial role in both the city's and Qin's future battles. Their training continued under my supervision and Shin's leadership. While Piao's absence was deeply felt, his teachings still resonated in the minds of the soldiers.
Training Program
1. Physical Endurance:
A 15 km run every morning.
Weight carrying and endurance tests.
Combat simulations under harsh physical conditions.
2. Combat Tactics:
Shin focused on enhancing the soldiers' individual combat skills, including swordsmanship, spear techniques, and hand-to-hand combat.
I organized strategic exercises to sharpen their tactical thinking.
3. Teamwork:
The soldiers were divided into three groups of 100, each led by a designated leader.
I conducted leadership lessons for the group leaders to ensure they could command larger units in the future.
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Starting My Own Training
I immediately implemented the system's program. This regimen would push not only my physical limits but also my mental resilience.
Day 1: The Beginning
Waking up early, I headed to the training grounds. A large area had been prepared exclusively for my exercises. I began with 300 push-ups. My muscles burned, but my determination to complete the quest kept me going.
Next came sit-ups and pull-ups, each exercise taxing my body further. The most challenging parts were the 20 km run and 1,000 sword swings. Halfway through the run, I struggled to catch my breath but refused to give up. "This is just the beginning," I reminded myself.
During the sword practice, I paid meticulous attention to each swing, ensuring every move was technically precise. I viewed this exercise not just as physical training but also as a mental discipline to enhance my swordsmanship.
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Week 1: Facing Challenges
By the end of the first week, my body had begun adapting to the intense routine. However, the mental fatigue was even harder to endure than the physical exhaustion. Repeating the same exercises daily required immense patience and determination. Regular strategy meetings with Shin and the soldiers motivated me, as I could see their progress.
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Week 2: Visible Progress
By the end of the second week, my speed and endurance had noticeably improved. My sword swings became more powerful and controlled. Mentally, I felt sharper than ever. During my daily runs, I started visualizing future battle scenarios, preparing myself for what lay ahead.
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Week 3: Reaching a New Level
The third week marked the peak intensity of the program. By this point, I had undergone a significant transformation, both physically and mentally. Shin and Piao's teachings echoed in my mind constantly. "A leader must be not just a warrior but also a guide," I reminded myself.
During this period, my Mind of the Strategist ability activated more frequently. With each move, I could foresee not just the immediate result but also the steps ahead. This allowed me to elevate my swordsmanship to a new level.
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Week 4: Completing the Quest
On the 30th day, I felt stronger than ever, both physically and mentally. As I finished the final set of exercises, the system panel activated once more:
Quest Completed: Strengthen Yourself.
Rewards Earned:
+5 Strength
+5 Agility
+5 Swordsmanship
+5 Intelligence
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Outcome: Preparations Complete
By the end of this training phase, both I and my soldiers were fully prepared. I was confident that we could face the upcoming rebellion with strength and resolve. The journey that began with Sho Bun Kun taking Piao away had now transformed not only me but also the fate of Kai City.
"This world will be shaped by my decisions. I am ready to fight for Qin," I thought. "But this is only the beginning."Updated Stats Panel
Character Name: Zhi Yong
Age: 13
Title: Baron
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Stats:
Intelligence: 78 (+5)
Strength: 70 (+5)
Speed: 69 (+5)
Endurance: 69
Charisma: 75
Swordsmanship: 76 (+5)
Leadership: 80
Strategy: 81
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Abilities:
1. Mind of a Genius:
Ability to analyze and predict strategic scenarios with exceptional clarity.
2. General's Aura:
Temporarily boosts the strength of all soldiers under command by 50% (Duration: 1 hour, Cooldown: 24 hours).
3. Tactical Creativity:
Ability to go beyond standard strategies and devise innovative solutions in critical situations.
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Analysis of Current Progress:
With enhanced stats and abilities, Zhi Yong now possesses an exceptional balance of physical prowess, mental acuity, and leadership skills. His recent gains in strength, speed, and swordsmanship make him a formidable warrior, while his superior intelligence, strategy, and leadership define him as a true visionary. The combination of Mind of a Genius and Tactical Creativity ensures that Zhi Yong is not only prepared for the challenges ahead but is also uniquely positioned to outmaneuver opponents in both direct combat and larger-scale battles.
This is a solid foundation to face the growing threats in Qin while ensuring the survival and prosperity of Kai City.