Chapter 268.1: Hello Chang'an
Chapter 268.1: “Return Home Soon”
“This time, your household’s young lady has repeatedly achieved extraordinary merit. The Sovereign is greatly pleased… however, in court, regarding the matter of conferring a military title, there have been many dissenting voices. Many officials believe it is improper for a woman to hold command, and thus there has been endless dispute…”
The imperial envoy eunuch stopped for a moment, raised his hands in a formal bow, and continued: “Yet the Sovereign values talent greatly. Recognizing that Miss Chang, though a woman, possesses the aura of a general, the Sovereign courageously overruled the dissent and, citing the will of Heaven, issued this decree that breaks precedent.”
Upon hearing this, Chang Kuo’s face displayed a mixture of gratitude and nervousness. He raised his hand: “Then Chang Kuo must express heartfelt thanks to Her Majesty for the favor shown to my young daughter.”
But what did Qiao Yang’s letter say? The granting of a military title to a woman was the result of an aged Minister Zhu arguing fiercely in court with nothing but his voice.
That detail wasn’t important—he knew the truth in his heart.
Chang Kuo maintained a face of gratitude.
The imperial envoy eunuch smiled, offering his hand to support him ceremoniously.
Then, turning to Xiao Min, he smiled: “The Sovereign has heard that now there are two generals commanding in the field. With unity among the troops, it is believed the Xu forces will soon be repelled…”
Xiao Min replied: “My experience is still limited. In the future, I must rely greatly on General Chang and General of Ningyuan.”
The eunuch nodded with a smile—very good. Not seeking to compete, knowing how to appear humble, a man with patience and intelligence.
He was also pleased to “cooperate” with Xiao Min’s words of modesty, while elevating Chang Kuo: “The Sovereign has always had great expectations of General Chang… General Chang is already a First-Rank Cavalry General of our dynasty. If you succeed in defeating Xu Zhengye, then on the day of victorious return to court, it will surely be the day of reward and ennoblement.”
The assembled soldiers’ expressions shifted slightly.
Rewarded with a noble title?
Although the eunuch spoke from his own position, to say it openly implied the Sovereign’s intent… Could this be an early promise to General Chang?
And as for the envoy’s visit… they had thought it might wait for a formal appointment of a new commander. After the Li Yi affair, anyone could see that General Chang was the most suitable candidate for supreme command. Yet now, there was no indication of an official change in command.
Hence, the Sovereign still did not intend to grant General Chang full command of the army…
Was this to avoid frequent changes of command that could unsettle the troops, or some other form of precaution?
The promise of ennoblement, besides encouragement, likely served to reassure as well…
Is this the method of a ruler to control her subordinates?
Each general silently pondered and speculated.
Chang Kuo, oblivious, laughed heartily: “Then I shall boldly take the Eunuch’s words as auspicious, hoping for the future!”
Indeed, he looked highly tempted by this “big reward.”
Which general would not want to achieve unprecedented glory, be ennobled as a distant lord, and leave a lasting name in history?
Chang Kuo displayed great enthusiasm, and the fact that his daughter was granted a general’s title visibly brightened his expression. He presented the red envelopes: “…Gentlemen, traveling so far at the turn of the year must have been arduous. This is a small token of my respect—please do not refuse!”
The eunuch pretended to decline twice, then smiled and accepted, repeatedly congratulating Chang Kuo: “…General Chang is fortunate to have such a daughter—it truly is enviable!”
Words flattering as if ancestral tombs were set ablaze—Chang Kuo loved hearing them and did not mind the eunuch’s verbosity. His smile grew even more genuine.
Finally, the eunuch turned to Chang Suining, smiling: “Hee Majesty also wishes me to convey a word to Miss Chang.”
He looked at the young woman in a blue robe, poised and attentive, yet without any sign of fluster or nervousness, and said: “The Sovereign wishes that General of Ningyuan will soon pacify the troubles in Jiangnan. The Sovereign will await news in the capital of Miss Chang’s safe return home…”
Chang Suining’s expression remained calm, her eyes lowered.
Return home?
Does this word “home” indicate goodwill, or is it her recognition—confirming that she is indeed her?
Waiting for her to return to the capital to resume the “family” connection?
The words were indeed pleasing, attempting to present familiarity, yet in reality, the Sovereign did not dare grant military authority—knowing full well that if old Chang commanded, the army’s power would be entrusted to her.
Chang Suining did not feel the slightest resentment, nor disappointment. The Sovereign was a ruler, cautious and suspicious until witnessing her true loyalty, which was perfectly understandable.
Everyone has choices. The Sovereign chose to be a ruler. Chang Suining fully understood the reasoning behind such measures.
Yet repeatedly using familial bonds as bait to gain her loyalty—that she could not fully accept.
Moreover, since everyone has choices, she, as a reincarnated person, should also have her own choices. Isn’t that right?
All were free. No one had the right to coerce another. She had never demanded that the other become a so-called mother in worldly terms. Likewise, after repaying the life debt, the “daughter” label could no longer bind her.
They owed each other nothing, no mutual persuasion required. The future would be shaped by each’s own skill and fate.
Chang Suining raised her hand: “Thank you for valuing me, Your Majesty.”
The eunuch smiled and nodded.
Then he inquired about Chang Suian’s injuries.
After showing concern, he asked: “Where is Young Master Chang resting now? Before departing, the Sovereign mentioned him many times, truly concerned, and instructed us to bring medicines and tonics as a proxy visit…”
“He is now resting under the care of a renowned physician, all is well,” Chang Suining said. “However, the physician’s residence is several hundred li from here, and scattered rebel forces roam the area. Gentlemen, as imperial envoys, would be at risk from these forces. It is unsafe to venture there.”
The eunuch’s face showed hesitation.
He could tell that the young woman was conveying two points: concern for their safety, and not wanting to reveal Chang Suian’s location.
Chang Kuo added: “I understand Her Majesty’s intention. Given the current situation, we shall wait until my return to the capital to bring my son to court to pay respects.”
At this, insisting on visiting would seem unclear in intention. The eunuch said: “Then we will not disturb Young Master Chang’s recovery.”
After some small talk, Xiao Min timely added: “Gentlemen, having traveled such a distance, you must be tired. Your accommodations are ready. Rest for now; we can toast and exchange pleasantries at tonight’s banquet.”
Such talk of “exchanging pleasantries” was just formalities. To Xiao Min, the back-and-forth was full of calculation—he felt exhausted listening, as did General Chang and Miss Chang.
After thanking them, the eunuchs departed.
Watching their disappearing backs, Chang Suining and Chang Kuo exchanged a barely perceptible glance.
The empress’ concern for Chang Sui'an, besides appearances of a benevolent ruler, likely had ulterior motives.
Who knew if after seeing him, she might “advise” Chang Stuian to return to the capital for recovery due to the dangerous situation in Jiangnan?
To prevent such possibilities, it was best not to meet.
Moreover, he was at the residence of Grand Princess, and could not be seen anyway.
As soon as the eunuchs departed, Yuan Xiang and Deputy General Jin, among others, crowded around.
“Congratulations, young lady!”
“What young lady? Call her General now!”
“Yes, call her Little General Chang!”
“….”
Chang Suining being granted the title of General of Ningyuan quickly spread throughout the camp, causing an uproar in all directions.
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