Chapter 380: Three Years Later
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Before long, a newly appointed governor assumed office at the Guang Mansion, and to the delight of Qin Zhenzhen, he was aligned with the Third Prince.
Qin Zhenzhen’s business in the Guang Mansion swiftly regained its momentum, and Su Bin faithfully delivered on his promise, facilitating the Third Prince’s connection with the Dragon Phoenix Hall. They also agreed upon a suitable time for the Hall Master of the Dragon Phoenix Hall to meet the Third Prince’s master, Lin Yue, to discuss their cooperative endeavors.
On the day of the meeting, Su Bin opted not to employ another substitute. Instead, an adept member of the Dragon Phoenix Hall, skilled in disguise, transformed Su Bin into the likeness of a middle-aged man. Prior to the encounter, Su Bin had diligently practiced altering his voice for over a month.
Upon their meeting, Lin Yue failed to recognize Su Bin as himself. This was primarily due to the presence of Su Bin’s deputy, who assumed the lion’s share of the conversation. Su Bin portrayed the role of an enigmatic, money-minded figure who seemed cold and indifferent.
In this collaboration, the Dragon Phoenix Hall provided confidential information while the Third Prince contributed the necessary funds. Su Bin confidently conveyed to Qin Zhenzhen, “Considering the current trajectory, it’s highly likely that the Third Prince will triumph over the Crown Prince and take his place within three years.”
However, Qin Zhenzhen harbored reservations about Su Bin’s prediction. In line with the original book’s plot, Chu Tiansheng couldn’t ascend to the throne until he reached the age of 22. In another three years, Chu Tiansheng would merely be 18 years old, and it remained uncertain if he could muster the strength to reclaim his position.
Nonetheless, the plot had undergone a dramatic transformation.
In the original book, the protagonist had contended with an individual who had already assumed the throne, akin to usurping the throne itself. This posed significantly higher challenges.
Presently, their situation involved a crown prince who had yet to ascend to the throne. Discovering the Crown Prince’s critical error could lead to his downfall and replacement.
Su Bin’s declaration that this transformation would occur within three years didn’t seem unwarranted.
Observing Su Bin’s seriousness, Qin Zhenzhen inquired with a smile, “Do you have any regrets about collaborating with the Third Prince?”
Su Bin responded earnestly, “I have no regrets.” Taken aback, Qin Zhenzhen questioned, “Why not?”
“Three years may be short.”
Su Bin had unhesitatingly exposed the Dragon Phoenix Hall to deal with the Crown Prince. His primary objective was to aid the Third Prince in eliminating the Crown Prince and earning some money along the way.
However, when the Third Prince successfully eliminated the Crown Prince and took his place, it would become necessary to sever ties with the organization. Those in power wouldn’t be keen on retaining an entity that specialized in gathering sensitive information and amassing wealth.
If they collaborated with the Third Prince for six or seven years, they could accrue greater wealth. Dissolving the organization would be the wiser choice.
Within just three years, their earnings would be limited.
Still, Su Bin responded with sincerity, “Three years should suffice.”
“If possible, I hope to settle that wretched Crown Prince within a year or two.”
“As for money, it’s a secondary concern.”
Qin Zhenzhen regarded Su Bin and inwardly sighed. The avaricious villain depicted in the original book had apparently undergone a transformation. He no longer coveted wealth.
It was often said that the world could change, but one’s fundamental nature remained unaltered. Su Bin’s newfound disinterest in money stemmed from his prioritization of her over material wealth.
It appeared that she was indeed a perfect match for Su Bin.
Su Bin continued, “Furthermore, relying on a livelihood that puts your life at risk is not a sustainable path.”
“I plan to invest all the money I earn in the next three years into acquiring farms, land, and shops.”
“When the Third Prince firmly establishes his rule, we can gradually exit this perilous business.”
“At the very least, everyone associated with the palace will need to leave.”
“I will arrange for them to lead a normal life, tending to farms and managing shops.’
“Of course, for those with valid alternate identities, there will be no need to completely disengage. They can simply suspend their activities..”