The Bodyguard King’s CEO Wife Chapter 1571: Arrival in Changsha

In the waning days of the Qin Dynasty, widespread rebellion had fractured the land, with numerous factions carving out their own kingdoms even within a single county. Changsha Commandery found itself in a similar state of turmoil. Prior to Mi Wen’s ascent, two significant uprising forces operated within the commandery, alongside the official Qin government. Upon Mi Wen’s decision to raise her own banner, these existing forces pledged their allegiance to her. This alignment was largely fueled by her considerable wealth, abundant food supplies, and ample weaponry. However, Mi Wen’s influence extended beyond mere financial backing; she proved herself a capable leader in many respects. Her swift expansion and successful subjugation of the local Qin authorities were a direct result of her strategic incorporation of a vast number of rebel troops.

Having a large following does not automatically equate to formidable strength, yet Mi Wen excelled in transforming numbers into power. After absorbing a multitude of rebel soldiers, she immediately replaced their former commanders with her own loyal subordinates. Subsequently, she purged the ranks of the old, the weak, and those hesitant in the face of battle. The remaining soldiers, young and robust, underwent rigorous training and were meticulously organized, which dramatically enhanced the army’s combat prowess.

Furthermore, Mi Wen rallied support by proclaiming the restoration of the 'Chu State,' resonating deeply with many inhabitants of the Chu Territory. From affluent merchants to venerable village elders of Chu descent, a significant portion of the populace harbored discontent with the ruling court. Once Mi Wen’s banner was unfurled, their opposition to the court became overt. In a mere month, Changsha Commandery transformed into Mi Wen’s unshakeable stronghold. In stark contrast to other counties succumbing to chaos, Changsha flourished as a land of prosperity.

Changsha, Linxiang City.

“This place is truly flourishing,” Ye Shikai couldn’t help but remark as he led his contingent into the city.

“Officer, might you be interested in some exquisite silks? Perhaps a purchase for your wife?”

Ye Shikai paused before a shop adorned with an array of fine silks and fabrics, reaching out to feel the material and confirming its superior quality.

“Officer, please observe. I assure you, even the Magistrate’s family procures their garments from our establishment,” the shop owner stated, gesturing towards a roll of fine silk.

“Not bad at all. Shopkeeper, please package all of this,” Ye Shikai instructed.

“Certainly. Officer, kindly wait a moment, and we shall have the items promptly delivered to your quarters,” the shop owner directed his staff to load the silk and fabric onto a waiting cart.

“General, the men have endured a strenuous journey all the way to Linxiang. I humbly request permission for them to have a day of leave,” Man Cang inquired.

“Very well, we have scarcely halted since departing East County. It has been a relentless trek. Now that we have arrived in Linxian and found a place to rest, your request is granted,” Ye Shikai affirmed with a nod. “Furthermore, provide each soldier with two liang of silver for their provisions and leisure.”

While Ye Shikai typically maintained strict discipline amongst his troops, truth be told, since their departure from East County, his men had not known respite and had constantly faced peril. Ye Shikai harbored a sense of guilt over this, hence his ready approval of Man Cang’s proposal.

“On behalf of my brothers, I extend my gratitude, General.”

Upon learning of Ye Shikai’s permission for 'leave,' the soldiers displayed a rare flicker of smiles, akin to a tense string finally being relaxed.

The Magistrate of Linxian County also emerged to extend a welcome, and Ye Shikai proceeded to greet him.

“You must be the renowned General Ye. I am Sun Feng, the Magistrate of Linxian County.”

“A pleasure to make your acquaintance,” Ye Shikai responded with a nod.

“The Governor has already issued directives that upon General Ye’s arrival in Linxian, I, as the County Magistrate, must ensure you and your men receive the utmost hospitality. The barracks have been prepared; you may both settle in immediately.”

“Thank you, Magistrate Sun, for your gracious hospitality. I am deeply appreciative.”

“Hahaha, the Governor speaks most highly of you, General Ye, even comparing your martial prowess to that of esteemed generals like Meng Tian.”

“Such praise is merely flattery. To be candid, I once served under Meng Tian as a general and am well aware of his far-reaching strategic brilliance.”

“General Ye, I have arranged a suitable residence for you. Please, allow me to escort you.”

“I thank you.”

Upon arriving at the residence designated by Sun Feng, Ye Shikai could not help but feel a renewed sense of astonishment. Compared to his previous quarters in East County, this dwelling was not only more expansive but also adorned with opulent decorations and artistic embellishments. Even Ye Shikai, lacking an expert eye, could discern the significant value of these items. The residence even came complete with a butler and attending servants, and the beds were already prepared with fresh linens, presenting a truly 'ready-to-move-in' state.

“How does it suit you? General Ye, are you content with your accommodations? Should there be any detail I have regrettably overlooked, I humbly seek your forgiveness.”

"Mr. Sun, you are far too gracious. Truly, since journeying south from East County and enduring the harsh elements while evading the Qin Army’s relentless pursuit, simply securing a stable haven feels like a blessing akin to paradise. The residence you’ve so thoughtfully prepared for us is beyond compare," Ye Shikai expressed, his words laced with polite deference. He surmised Sun Feng's exceptional hospitality stemmed from Mi Wen's influence. Ancient wisdom often speaks of the enduring difficulty in repaying kindness, and Ye Shikai found himself indebted to Mi Wen once more. Yet, a peculiar thought lingered: had the injury Mi Wen inflicted upon him in the barracks effectively settled that particular score?

"It is my greatest pleasure if General Ye finds himself satisfied. To celebrate your arrival, I have orchestrated a welcoming banquet within the estate, intended to refresh both you and your esteemed wife. We would be honored by your presence," Sun Feng replied.

"Of course," Ye Shikai agreed.

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

"Ling'er, my dear, what are your thoughts on this place? Does it meet your satisfaction?" Ye Shikai asked tenderly.

"Indeed, in these turbulent times, merely having a secure location is more than we could ask for," He Linghan affirmed with a nod. "Grandfather is also quite pleased, though the arduous journey south from East County took its toll on him, given his advanced age."

"Ling'er, our days of constant movement are finally over," Ye Shikai murmured, drawing her into an embrace. A profound sense of regret washed over him as he contemplated He Linghan's ordeal. As a husband, he felt immense guilt for subjecting his wife to such a perilous thousand-mile journey and the constant anxiety of being pursued, all as a consequence of his actions. He knew this experience would likely leave an unerasable mark, perhaps even a deep psychological scar, upon his beloved wife.

"Now that we have found refuge with Mi Wen, it is almost certain that further conflicts lie ahead."

"Worry not, I will be perfectly fine," Ye Shikai reassured her, gently stroking her hair. With his newfound Inner Strength, he felt an unshakeable confidence. Even if faced with an onslaught of thousands, he remained calm and unconcerned about the possibility of falling in battle.

Thud, thud, thud.

At that precise moment, the distinct sound of hurried footsteps echoed from outside, causing Ye Shikai to instinctively snap his head towards the door.

"General."

"Is that Xue San? What is the matter?" Ye Shikai recognized the voice instantly. He moved forward and opened the door.

"Reporting to the General, an unfortunate incident has occurred."

"Let us discuss this in the main hall," Ye Shikai instructed.

A heavy premonition settled upon Ye Shikai. He understood that if the matter were not of significant urgency, Xue San would not have 'burst' into his private chambers to deliver the report.

"What precisely has transpired?" he inquired.

"Just moments ago, down at the marketplace, some of our soldiers, after having a few drinks, engaged in an altercation with local merchants. During the ensuing chaos, our soldiers, regrettably and unintentionally... took a life."