Ministers Begging Me to Ascend the Throne Chapter 1113 - 138:

"The moment I depart Swamp Prefecture, launch naval military drills at once to frighten those skulking foes."

"Don't worry, we'll protect Swamp Prefecture securely."

"In everyday operations, ramp up patrols and leave no area unsearched..." Zhao Yao repeated various orders to Chu Huan.

Chu Huan paid close attention.

Once his directives were complete, Zhao Yao placed a hand on Chu Huan’s shoulder with a grin, saying, "I believe you can safeguard Swamp Prefecture." Then a trace of remorse crossed his features, "Forgive me for keeping you from heading back to the capital to see your families." Chu Huan and his comrades had reached Swamp Prefecture ahead of Zhao Yao, and for years they hadn't seen their loved ones in the capital.

"We haven't accomplished anything major yet, so why return home just to face our parents' disdain?" Chu Huan mused inwardly. Once you head to the capital and claim the throne, we'll trail right behind you.

"Hahaha, upon my return, I'll surely praise your feats in Swamp Prefecture to your parents, filling them with pride."

"Boss, we're grown men now, we really don't long for home, so don't feel guilty on our account." Chu Huan reassured Zhao Yao, "Swamp Prefecture has become our second home, and we want it to thrive alongside you." At first, they had despised Swamp Prefecture, but through the years, affection had blossomed for it, turning it into their cherished second home. They would never permit harm to come to Swamp Prefecture.

Zhao Yao dropped his lighthearted grin, "I know this place holds your hearts as deeply as mine." They had built Swamp Prefecture brick by brick with tireless effort.

"Boss, won't you bring along some firearms, grenades, and gunpowder?" Chu Huan shifted topics, "You talked earlier about carrying some to the capital."

On this topic, Zhao Yao's face grew intricate: "I'm not sure if transporting them to the capital will prove beneficial or harmful."

Chu Huan grasped Zhao Yao’s worries, "Boss, you said Prince Han and the Xiongnu plot against us, right? Bringing them to the capital is definitely wise."

Zhao Yao paused before agreeing, "You're correct, I'll take a portion then." He had invented these weapons not just to defend Lingnan, but to shield all of Great Zhou.

After covering additional issues with Chu Huan, Zhao Yao departed from Divine Machine Camp. Prior to going, he brought Lu Guang along.

Lu Guang never anticipated Prince Han would select him to accompany back to the capital—an immense honor in his eyes.

Zhao Yao ordered Lu Guang to pose as a regular bodyguard at his side, concealing his sharpshooter skills.

Lu Guang understood the plan and faithfully played the part of a standard guard.

Departing Divine Machine Camp, Zhao Yao stopped by Nanshan Farm to issue directives. Then he headed to the Western Mountains, home to numerous small factories—some his own, others from the minor court, and the rest owned by locals.

Having delivered instructions there, he made his way back to Han Prince Mansion.

No sooner had he arrived than He Lianfang called him for talks, which stretched through much of the day.

In the days that followed, Zhao Yao remained at Han Prince Mansion, working closely with his officials.

The cabinet handles imperial decisions. For unresolved major matters, they seek He Lianfang's input. In crises, his commands take priority.

Though He Lianfang occupies no role in Zhao Yao’s minor court, Wen Daoji and the rest recognize him as Zhao Yao's trusted advisor and key planner, fully aware of the lofty regard Zhao Yao holds for him.

As an elder, Wen Daoji knew of He Lianfang's reputation, understood his character, and held him in high esteem.

With such a powerful figure like He Lianfang present, neither rebellious officials nor external invaders dare target Swamp Prefecture.

Days passed in a blur, and departure day for the capital arrived swiftly.

The eve of his journey to the capital, Zhao Yao enjoyed a hot pot feast with He Lianfang.

Seeing He Lianfang stare intently yet stay quiet, Zhao Yao laughed and prompted, "Second Uncle, say what's on your mind."

He Lianfang pulled back his eyes and responded steadily, "Nothing to discuss."

"Second Uncle, I'm off tomorrow. Truly no concerns about me not coming back?"

"You'll come back," He Lianfang affirmed, his eyes warming as they met Zhao Yao's, "I'll await your return."

The words "I’ll be waiting for you" struck Zhao Yao like lightning, igniting a wave of intense feelings that turned his eyes faintly red. To keep He Lianfang from seeing it, he ducked his head and gulped down his drink, declaring, "Swamp Prefecture is my home, even if it takes everything, I’ll return."

"Once in the capital, stay clever." That was all the advice He Lianfang gave before heading back to his courtyard. Instead of retiring early, Zhao Yao kept on drinking.

Since he had to leave at first light the following morning, Zhao Yao drained his cup and made his way to his chamber.

At the break of dawn the next day, Zhao Yao slipped away in silence, notifying no one. As morning light crept in and Swamp Prefecture’s people spotted the ship still moored at the Han Prince Mansion’s dock, they assumed he remained behind.

On the day he set off, Zhao Yao kept the emperor and Prince Chu in the capital in the dark. Rather than joining the main fleet, he departed ahead on a merchant vessel accompanied by a handful of guards.

The Han Prince Mansion owned merchant ships that bore the Liang family’s flag. To be precise, they belonged to the Liang family. These vessels departed daily for places far and wide, even the capital. Zhao Yao mingled aboard his family’s merchant ship alongside Tong Xi and the rest.

This particular merchant ship bound for the capital stood out. The majority of its crew consisted of guards and hidden guards. Moreover, it bristled with clever devices ready to spot any assassination plots in an instant.

The previous two days aboard had passed in calm, free of any trouble or assassination bids.

Zhao Yao lounged on the deck, savoring grilled meats as he cast his line into the waves.

Tong Xi settled next to him, gazing at the peaceful ocean, a quiet serenity filling his chest.

"Hope the voyage remains peaceful."

With a glance at the still waters, Zhao Yao mused deeply, "This is the calm before the storm."