221 B.C.
Inner China

Qin Shi Huang shifted restlessly on the stiff bamboo bedmat, scowling at the bright full moon. It shone piercingly through the window, as an intruder would burst through a door.

A small spark of light snapped into existence a few feet away. Huang heaved a sigh through thick lips. These relentless visits.

“You again?” he mumbled in groggy Chinese.

“I’ve come to give you further instruction,” said the figure in the corner.

Huang pouted internally. Someone giving him orders.

“Yes, I am, and you will follow them,” the man growled. “In a short time, you will be called upon to conquer all the remaining opposing states in China, thereby unifying the entire country. After which, I’d like you to start a little project.”

”...A project?” Huang’s ears perked up. He could scent a benefit.

“Yes, a little building project. I want you to tear down all the smaller walls separating the feudal states…and make a new one.”

“A wall?” Huang snorted.

“Yes. A wall. A big wall.”