Chapter 647 - Chapter 647: Returning to the Capital to Be Anointed
Chapter 647: Returning to the Capital to Be Anointed
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Qin Silong harbored no mercy for Old General Chen, who had once issued orders for his elimination, a directive that would have been carried out if not for a fortuitous dream and the intervention of his brother-in-law, Su Bin
While guarding the border for numerous years, Qin Silong managed to return Old General Chen as a complete corpse, according to the general’s standards. He even maintained the general’s reputation by disseminating a story to the public. In this narrative, Old General Chen, upon hearing of the Public House’s rebellion, allegedly succumbed to suicide out of shame.
In reality, Old General Chen had actively participated in the rebellion, eliminating numerous innocent soldiers to secure the military power for the Public House. His ruthless approach spared no one suspected of allegiance to the Emperor or the General Manor.
However, the tables turned, and now the military power rested in the hands of Qin Silong, the very person Old General Chen had once suspected of conspiring against him.
Facing his demise, Old General Chen surprisingly accepted his fate with calmness, acknowledging, “It’s destiny that I lost to you.”
Reflecting on his life, Old General Chen recognized the numerous lives he had taken, sparing neither Qin Silong nor Su Ping. Yet, despite his doubts, Qin Silong consistently emerged victorious, transforming defeat into triumph, earning him a god-like status in the military camp.
Old General Chen had attempted to test Qin Silong’s loyalty by dispatching individuals to speak negatively about him and positively about the Third Prince. However, Qin Silong, ever astute, acknowledged the Third Prince’s virtues while emphasizing the challenges in his life. He advised against speaking ill of him to make a name for oneself.
How could Old General Chen have known that, in Qin Silong’s dream, the person he dispatched to test Qin Silong was, in fact, his confidant? Consequently, Qin Silong was unable to divulge the truth.
Initially, Old General Chen intended to observe for a while longer, but a secret letter from the capital revealed that Qin Silong had already formed a cooperative relationship with Su Bin. Su Bin’s second brother and brother-in-law were now trusted confidants.
While cautious by nature, Old General Chen eventually let down his guard against Qin Silong. As time passed, Qin Silong and Su Ping accumulated numerous battle achievements, forcing Old General Chen to promote them. He found solace in having these two fortunate generals in his army.
This, however, turned out to be the gravest mistake of his life.
Moreover, Old General Chen was already aware of the events unfolding in the capital—the failure of the Public House’s rebellion. Realizing that holding onto military power wouldn’t alter the inevitable outcome and would only lead to more casualties, he chose to face his fate peacefully.
Before his death, Qin Silong pledged, “We will protect your reputation.”
“Whatever!” Old General Chen’s response reflected his resignation. With the Public House’s defeat, his tarnished reputation was inconsequential.
Yet, he understood Qin Silong’s strategic intent. By preserving his reputation, Qin Silong could effectively bolster the morale of the army, even among trusted generals unaware of the truth. Burying him with the standard of a general would further amplify this effect.
The southerly military camp’s victory reached the emperor, bringing him great joy. In recognition of Qin Silong’s achievements, he swiftly appointed Qin Silong as the general of the southern military camp, with the responsibility of continuing to guard the border. A month’s leave was granted after the wedding, but duty called for their return to safeguard the borders.
Simultaneously, Su Bin received an imperial edict instructing him to return to the capital to be conferred the title of governor. The new governor was also appointed..