Chapter 483: I Can’t Debt You Anymore
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
When they first encountered each other, Su Bin experienced a whirlwind of emotions.
Initially, he had believed that the Old Marquis had abandoned him after their last resolute exchange of words. Little did he anticipate that the Old Marquis would be willing to utilize the death exemption medal to potentially “rescue” his future.
Was the Old Marquis genuinely attempting to reform him? The Old Marquis’s sincerity in deploying the death-exemption medal to persuade him spoke volumes.
Nevertheless, Su Bin remained unwavering in his stance, adamant that he wouldn’t compromise unless the Old Marquis publicly acknowledged his past mistakes and expunged the labels of youth, ignorance, rebellion, and unfilial behavior that had been attributed to him.
With a wry smile, he contemplated how the Old Marquis would approach this matter.
The Old Marquis breathed a sigh of relief upon spotting Su Bin’s arrival. Su Bin had vowed never to address him as “grandpa” again, asserting that they would have no further association.
However, the fact that Su Bin was now willing to engage with him hinted at a potential turn of events for the better. The Old Marquis couldn’t help but retain a glimmer of hope.
He had contemplated using the death exemption token as a means to soften Su
Bin’s heart and ultimately entice him back to the Marquis Mansion. Yet, even if Su Bin declined to return, he resolved not to regret his decision. He already owed his eldest son; he didn’t wish to accrue any more debts, especially with his eldest grandson.
Su Bin, unreservedly aware of the situation, didn’t hold back.
“Marquis, are you genuinely intending to part with the death exemption medal?” The pain in the Old Marquis’s heart deepened as he realized that Su Bin no longer addressed him as “grandpa.”
He nodded, his spirits slightly dampened. “Yes.”
Su Bin’s countenance remained inscrutable as he offered his counsel. “I strongly advise against this course of action because it ultimately serves no purpose.”
The Old Marquis suddenly brimmed with enthusiasm. “Even if it’s purposeless, I am willing to do it!”
He instantly grasped that Su Bin’s message implied that even if he presented the death exemption card, Su Bin wouldn’t value his benevolence, let alone soften his stance and return to the Marquis Mansion. Therefore, he intended to convey to Su Bin his willingness without any additional conditions.
Su Bin was momentarily taken aback, then adopted a more gentle tone. “I believe obtaining a death exemption medal isn’t a simple matter. It shouldn’t be squandered on this issue.”
The Old Marquis remained fervent. “Are you aware that two governors of Shanglin Prefecture fell victim to bandits’ brutality? Isn’t your life worth a death exemption medal?”
Su Bin fell into contemplative silence for a while before elucidating, “Their deaths are intertwined with their official conduct.”
Shanglin Prefecture was already impoverished, yet they persisted in exploiting its residents. It came as no surprise that someone would seek retribution on behalf of the suffering populace. The bandits lurking in the mountains had a fearsome reputation.
While others might remain oblivious to these facts, the Dragon Phoenix Hall was well-informed.
The Old Marquis delved deeper into thought and grasped Su Bin’s perspective.
He understood that Su Bin believed that, as long as he refrained from engaging in corrupt practices as an official, he wouldn’t meet the same fate as the two governors who had met their untimely demise in Shanglin Prefecture.
“Precaution is better than regret. In any case, Shanglin Prefecture is a perilous place, and I’ll make every effort to avoid it.”
“Bin’er, I already owe your father a great debt. Regardless of the circumstances, I cannot incur further obligations to you. Nothing is more important than safeguarding your lives, so please don’t hinder me in this.”
“I brought you here merely to inform you. Whether you appreciate it or not, my decision has been made!”
With that declaration, the Old Marquis rose to his feet, intending to depart. Su Bin had no choice but to stand up and intercept him.
“Please, sit down and allow me to elucidate.”
The Old Marquis, realizing his hasty decision and feeling remorse, decided to accept Su Bin’s offer for further discussion.
Observing the Old Marquis reseat himself, Su Bin proceeded to elaborate.
“In truth, I believe it’s far safer to venture to Shanglin Prefecture than to serve as an official in the capital.”
“The emperor has appointed me to the Court of Judicial Review as a deputy minister, and his intentions are well-known to all..”