Chapter 328: Military Service (2)
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Qin Silong and Su Ping returned to their hometown to enlist in the military.
It was a scene right out of Qin Silong’s dreams. This year’s spring recruitment directly involved their family.
However, speculation ran rife that the Qin family would likely resort to financial means to secure exemption from military service. It was widely known that the Qin family possessed the means to do so.
This sentiment stemmed from a common understanding that military service was far from ideal. The border regions were constantly fraught with unrest, and even the slightest misstep could result in the loss of one’s life.
Yet, the outcome left everyone perplexed: Qin Silong, the fourth son of the Qin family, had volunteered for military service.
Rumors suggested that initially, the elder members of the Qin family had their reservations, but Qin Silong remained resolute in his decision.
In fact, according to tradition, it should have been the eldest son of the Qin family fulfilling this obligation. He was already married with a family and offspring, while Qin Silong remained unmarried.
The villagers in Qian Family Village couldn’t help but discuss the matter.
“Why would a young master from the Marquis Mansion need to serve in the military?
“Even if the family draws lots, they have the wealth to buy their way out.”
“Absolutely. I heard that he didn’t seek the family’s help; he enlisted on his own.”
“That’s peculiar. Could it be that he’s simply putting on a show, going to the military camp for training? Perhaps the Marquis Mansion intends to pay him to forge connections and secure an official position in the military camp?”
“That makes sense. Su Bin is quite talented and can pursue an official career. As the eldest son, he can’t afford to achieve nothing.”
The recruits had a chance of being stationed in locations other than the volatile border regions. Some might find themselves assigned to the military camps in the outskirts of the capital.
For the fortunate few who landed spots in the Guards Legion Corps or the City Defense Army, they could potentially avoid venturing onto the battlefield for the remainder of their careers.
If he could secure an official position within the military and later serve in the capital, a wealth of opportunities for personal gain would undoubtedly open up.
Yet, there were dissenting voices amidst the chorus of speculation.
“I think your assumptions might be off. It seems highly unlikely.”
“You’re right. The Old Marquis clearly holds them in high regard. You could see it during their grand visit to our village last time. The Old Marquis eagerly anticipates their return to the Marquis Mansion and acknowledges them as kin every day.”
“But they all seem driven by ambition. Look at them; not a single one is inclined to return.”
“Remember how their father chose to escape from the Marquis Mansion and live a simple village life like ours instead of assuming the mantle of young master of the Hou family? There must be more to the story.”
“I suspect Qin Silong aims to pave his own path within the military camp, showing the Marquis Mansion’s inhabitants that they can lead fulfilling lives without relying solely on their status as young masters. They can attain their own accomplishments.”
“There’s another angle to consider. Perhaps he’s been influenced by his brother-in-law. The men from the military camp possess an indomitable spirit. ”
“Take Qian Shanmin, for example. Despite his physical disability, he’s no less capable than those of us with able bodies. In fact, he’s several times stronger.”
Several voices joined in agreement, “Your insights seem spot-on. That’s got to be it.”
Another voice chimed in, “I think there’s yet another reason – it’s what Qin Zhenzhen articulated. Do you recall what she passionately proclaimed on that mountain?”
“Of course, I remember!”
“When I heard her fervent words, it stirred something within me. I started to think that serving in the military might not be as daunting as it sounds. In fact, it’s something to be proud of.”
“Absolutely! If it comes to drawing lots next time, I’ll step forward and compete for the opportunity. No more pushing each other aside among the brothers.” “I’ll enroll in the next recruitment even if it means I can’t make it in!”
“If my health weren’t so fragile, I’d have joined the military camp as well.. I’ve heard they provide decent meals!”