Chapter 2171: Selfish Opposition
“It’s imperative to swiftly deal with such sources of disruption!” General Sun persisted in his efforts to dissuade the Second Prince.
Yet, with the Second Prince harboring such inclinations, how could General Sun easily sway him?
He chuckled wryly, adopting a nonchalant tone. “The world is in turmoil, and anyone with capabilities is bound to have their own strategies. Moreover, Shao Yunduan was likely coerced into his actions.”
At this juncture, he cast another glance at General Sun. If Sun Pu hadn’t made erroneous accusations, they wouldn’t be entangled in such plications.
“I doubt he’s merely a pedantic scholar. His past loyalty to the Crown Prince suggests he might consider my offer.”
“Your Majesty!”
“Let it be.” The Second Prince dismissed the topic with a wave of his hand. “Focus on arranging our retreat for now. We’ll revisit this matter upon our return! Once back, I’ll inquire of cousin Sun Pu who granted him the authority to deploy our forces! My troops aren’t at his disposal!”
Reflecting on Sun Pu’s reckless actions that had cost them tens of thousands of soldiers, the Second Prince trembled with frustration. His anger simmered as he continued, “Uncle, it’s time to reprimand him!”
General Sun felt a profound sense of humiliation. The Second Prince had always treated him with deference throughout the war, seeking his counsel on all matters. He had relished his elevated status, manding legions of troops. Yet, who would have anticipated the Second Prince’s displeasure over Shao Yunduan’s rebellion?
This was really…
He struggled with an internal conflict, torn between his allegiance to his beloved youngest son and his duty to the Emperor. Opening his mouth, then closing it again, he finally spoke, “Yes, Your Majesty. I am deeply ashamed! Rest assured, I will discipline him appropriately upon our return! As for Shao Yunduan, he is a traitorous individual. I implore you to reconsider recruiting him!”
Observing his uncle’s contrite admission, the Second Prince softened his tone. “Uncle, fret not. I trust in your loyalty and that of the Sun family. Whom else can I rely on if not you? In my eyes, no one can pare to you!”
He sighed, his heart heavy with sorrow. “It pains me deeply to witness tens of thousands of lives lost in vain. They were painstakingly recruited and trained! We cannot treat this matter lightly!”
“I understand, and I share in your remorse.”
After exchanging pleasantries, the Emperor and his minister bid each other farewell. Sensing the Second Prince’s fatigue, General Sun took his leave.
However, once alone, General Sun’s countenance soured.
Summoning his trusted aides, he dispatched for the messenger from Wuchang, intending to seek answers firsthand.
The messenger, astute in his perception, discerned General Sun’s partiality towards his own kin and harbored evident disdain towards Shao Yunduan. Assuming this was the Emperor’s directive, he acquiesced to General Sun’s mand.
So, she embellished her tale with exaggeration and embellished her plaints about Shao Yunduan, seeking to exonerate General Sun Pu.
She asserted that the general’s downfall stemmed from his transparent and straightforward nature, whereas Shao Yunduan’s cunning outmatched him.
The most damning accusation was that Shao Yunduan had employed some clandestine method to obliterate the siege ladders and catapults brought by the junior general overnight. This single act had dealt a crippling blow, preventing the assault on the city and resulting in a resounding defeat.
Upon hearing this, General Sun was taken aback. He pressed for further details, incredulous at the notion of all siege equipment being destroyed in a single night. It seemed preposterous, utterly implausible!
Yet, the messenger faltered in his explanation, evading the topic with a stammer. Observing his disfort, General Sun refrained from pressing further. A knowing glance was all it took for him to glean the truth.
He felt he had grasped the situation entirely.
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