The Bodyguard King’s CEO Wife Chapter 1529: Rebellion

"Should future opportunities arise, I shall certainly visit the Chu Territory to seek you out. By then, I trust this noble lady will extend a warm reception," Ye Shikai declared with a smile. Initially perceiving Hua Liandie as a "calculating merchant" who had "cornered the grain market," Ye Shikai's perspective of her had softened over time. A more accurate description of their relationship, one might say, was "close confidants." If He Linghan possessed even a sliver more jealousy, Ye Shikai would find himself explaining his actions daily.

"Is that so? With your current overwhelming official duties, do you truly foresee having the leisure to visit the Chu Territory?" He Linghan playfully inquired. Her words struck a chord, causing Ye Shikai a moment of awkwardness. Indeed, as the foremost general of East County, he bore responsibility for fifty to sixty thousand stationed troops, with over ten thousand elite soldiers under his direct command. Managing the entirety of East County's military affairs consumed his efforts. Consequently, finding time to attend to He Linghan, his recently wedded wife, was a challenge, let alone embarking on a "journey" to the distant Chu Territory.

"Perhaps," Ye Shikai responded with a sheepish grin, fully aware that the Emperor's reign was nearing its twilight, and the Qin Dynasty's dominion was on the verge of collapse. The ensuing conflict would undoubtedly spiral beyond his control. Ye Shikai had even contemplated relinquishing his generalship and finding a tranquil haven to share with He Linghan. Their current wealth would ensure a comfortable existence for generations. However... he felt an unshakeable obligation to his many brothers-in-arms. Abandoning them felt untenable; without his leadership, their future paths would be fraught with peril.

"Very well, enough pleasantries. I am returning to the Chu Territory on a matter of great significance this time," Hua Liandie stated, a rare, somber smile gracing her lips.

"What matter requires such urgency?"

Hua Liandie scanned her surroundings, and upon confirming their privacy, she leaned closer to Ye Shikai's ear, whispering her intentions.

"To overthrow the Qin Dynasty."

"What did you say?" Ye Shikai's entire body trembled involuntarily upon hearing her words. It was a visceral reaction, as if a thunderclap had erupted beside his ear. It took him a considerable moment to process her statement.

"You... you..." Ye Shikai was so utterly stunned that speech failed him. His eyes darted about nervously, searching for any lurking eavesdroppers, never having anticipated that Hua Liandie would conceive of orchestrating a "rebellion."

"That is correct; you heard me plainly. I am returning to the Chu Territory to dismantle the Qin Dynasty and re-establish the Chu State," Hua Liandie affirmed with utmost seriousness. She was not one for idle jesting. The fact that she had confided this secret to Ye Shikai meant she was utterly committed.

"Are you mad? Such an undertaking is treason, punishable by death!" Ye Shikai exclaimed, his mind flashing with the dire consequences faced by those who dared challenge the established order. The Qin laws were notoriously severe; failure meant certain execution for Hua Liandie.

"Death is but a small price. I am prepared for whatever may come," Hua Liandie replied, her gaze fixed on Ye Shikai's face as she slowly extended her hands. "If you wish to apprehend me, you may do so now, and in doing so, you shall earn great merit."

"I do not consider myself a paragon of virtue, but I am no traitor to my friends, even if I now serve as a Qin General," Ye Shikai retorted, a hint of indignation in his voice. He understood Hua Liandie was testing his allegiance, yet her words still stung.

"Ha ha, I anticipated as much. You are not the sort to trade loyalty for personal gain. Had you truly intended to arrest me, I would not have shared this secret with you," Hua Liandie chuckled, a sense of relief washing over her.

"You... Regardless of anything else, your willingness to confide this secret to me is a profound demonstration of trust. You can rest assured, I will never become the kind of person who betrays their friends," Ye Shikai declared, though a flicker of regret momentarily crossed his mind for the promise he had made to assist her in the future. Yet... if she truly pursued rebellion, what course of action would he take?

"Hua Liandie, have you truly committed to this path of rebellion?" Ye Shikai pressed, aware of his own limitations in dissuading her. From a friend's perspective, however, he found it difficult to bear the thought of her facing defeat and death.

"The Qin Dynasty's rule is unjust. While heroes throughout the land rise in defiance, many are motivated solely by the acquisition of castles, land, gold, and silver amidst this chaos. They act for selfish gain, and thus, I feel no regret when the Qin Army crushes them," Hua Liandie continued, her voice firm. "As a noble of the Chu State, this is my solemn duty."

"Should I require your assistance in the future, will you still offer it?" Hua Liandie inquired, her eyes discerning Ye Shikai's grave expression and sensing his inner turmoil.

"Without question, I will still lend my aid."

"The next time we meet, we may stand on opposing sides. If you aid me then, you risk severe punishment under Qin Law."

"If your actions are unjust, I shall not assist you. However, if you uphold righteousness, even if it means defying Qin Law, I will stand by you," Ye Shikai replied after a moment of thoughtful consideration.

"Alright, I hope we can still be friends when we meet again," Hua Liandie gave a slight nod. "I've already taken too much time and need to depart soon."

"Okay, I'll see you off."

Ye Shikai understood he could not stop Hua Liandie, much like he couldn't halt the wheels of destiny. In the end, his only recourse was to shield those near him to the greatest extent possible.

"Miss He has been waiting at home, looking quite distressed. I can see she worries about you deeply. Now that you've returned, it would be best to remain home and spend time with her. As for farewells... let's just skip them," Hua Liandie politely declined.

"Then I shall accompany you to the city gates."

..................

Evening, at the Ye Family mansion.

"Hua Liandie just left like that?" He Linghan inquired. Hua Liandie had stayed at their residence for two days, only to meet Ye Shikai before journeying to the Chu Territory. She shared a secret with him, demonstrating her trust. Consequently, Ye Shikai resolved to keep it confidential, especially since such information could endanger lives. He chose to withhold it even from He Linghan.

"Yes, she's returning to the Chu Territory to attend to some urgent matters," Ye Shikai responded casually, saying no more. He Linghan did not probe further.

"Husband, you must not have eaten well in Beast Mountain. I prepared this dish especially for you. Please, give it a try," He Linghan thoughtfully served Ye Shikai. However, Ye Shikai's thoughts were consumed by Hua Liandie's departure, leaving him feeling heavy and somewhat lacking an appetite.

"Husband, are you feeling unwell, or perhaps you don't find the food palatable?" He Linghan asked.

"Cough, cough, no, the food is delicious," Ye Shikai was jolted back to the present and replied, quickly taking two substantial bites.

"Then is something troubling your mind?"

"Nothing much," Ye Shikai answered vaguely.

"Is it about Hua Liandie?"

"Ling'er, please, let's not discuss this any further, alright?" Ye Shikai set down his chopsticks, speaking softly.