Crossing the famine to find the white moonlight

Chapter 352: Generals’ Pressure and Inducement

The morning glow had just broken through the mist, dewdrops shimmered on the grass, and the air was filled with the scent of earth and grass. The tranquility of the moment seemed to form a stark contrast to the impending storm. Ye Wan stood in the center of the camp, her face as calm and composed as ever. She knew that the chess game before her had only just begun.

With the arrival of the army, the atmosphere suddenly became tense. The general, accompanied by his soldiers, rode majestically through the ranks. All eyes were focused on this figure, and every step he took seemed to touch a sensitive spot deep within Ye Wan's heart.

The general's aura was powerful, his words imbued with an air of oppression. His deep voice carried an undeniable strength. "Lord Ye Wan, our court fully recognizes your abilities. If you are willing to serve us, we will grant you generous rewards and high-ranking privileges."

His words made Ye Wan frown slightly, and she secretly became alert. This sounded like a well-intentioned invitation, but in reality, it contained deep pressure and inducement.

"Privileges of high position?" Ye Wan's tone was flat, as if these words hadn't caused her any fluctuations. "Does the court think that my team and I are willing to change our original intentions for these benefits?"

The general looked at her, his eyes flickering slightly, as if surprised by her blunt words. However, he quickly regained his composure and continued, "I know you're not seeking power, but please hear me out. If you agree to submit to the court, you will not only receive a generous reward, but also enjoy corresponding privileges—you will directly command an elite army and even participate in important court decisions. The court will provide strong logistical support, and you will have access to endless resources. Anything you need, the court will satisfy without hesitation."

Ye Wan's heart remained unwavering after hearing this. She appeared silent on the surface, but deep down she knew that these were empty baits, meant to lure her into a trap.

"So what you're saying is that if I accept, I'll have all the power and resources?" Ye Wan's eyes grew sharper. "However, I'd like to know what the court's requirements are for my team."

A cold smile played at the general's lips. He had clearly anticipated that Ye Wan wouldn't be easily moved, but he wasn't in a hurry to reveal his true intentions. He maintained a gentle tone, "No, it's not a request, but cooperation. Your team's capabilities are obvious to all in the court. If you are willing to work hand in hand with the court, you will not only enjoy the fruits of power, but also contribute to the court."

Ye Wan's gaze remained resolute; she had never been easily tempted by external temptations. She raised her head, glanced around, and spoke calmly, "General, I understand your eagerness, but I hope you understand that my team and I are not seeking power. We have no interest in participating in palace politics, rife with strife and betrayal."

The general's brow furrowed slightly. He had obviously not expected Ye Wan to be so adamant about her stance. Logically, a powerful team like hers should be tempted by these temptations, but she showed no sign of being moved at all.

"I admit that the imperial court is sometimes filled with disputes and struggles, but if you are willing to let go of these prejudices, you will find that only by standing on the side of the imperial court can you have true development and a future." The general's tone became deeper. "Join us, Lord Ye Wan, and you will not only gain tremendous power, but also protect those you want to protect and build a true home."

Ye Wan was silent for a moment, her gaze gradually growing colder. She knew that while these words sounded reasonable, they held no appeal to her. She took a deep breath and replied firmly, "General, my homeland was built by my team and I. We have found our place and our place here. I do not need the power of the court, nor its privileges. I simply want my team to be independent and autonomous, to safeguard our own future."

The general looked at Ye Wan, a complex emotion flashing in his eyes. He did not immediately fight back, but stood there quietly, as if thinking about Ye Wan's answer.

"I admire your steadfastness," he finally spoke, his tone slightly resigned. "But please remember, Master Ye Wan, the imperial court's power is more than just words. If you continue to refuse to cooperate with the court, it will not only be a personal challenge for you, but will also put the future of the entire team in unpredictable danger."

Ye Wan looked at him without a trace of fear, and replied firmly, "Everything I do is solely for the future of our team. If the court can respect our independence, we are willing to cooperate with it; but if they want to control us, I am afraid I can only regretfully refuse."

Her tone was calm, yet her words revealed a resolute resolve. For Ye Wan, this wasn't just a simple negotiation, but a choice between freedom and responsibility. She knew full well that the court harbored complex and unspeakable intentions, and she couldn't let her team get caught up in them.

The general's expression darkened, but he quickly regained his composure and smiled, as if trying to conceal his disappointment. "Alright, Lord Ye Wan, if that's the case, I won't force you. The court is always open to you, and you can make your decision in the future. But remember, the situation is unpredictable, and perhaps you'll change your mind."

Ye Wan smiled faintly, her eyes as cold as ice. "I don't like living in 'maybes'. Only now is the most real. Now, my choice is made. Thank you for your kindness, General."

The general nodded slightly, seeming to admire Ye Wan's persistence, but deep down he was filled with resentment. He had thought that with the power of the imperial court, he could easily force Ye Wan and her team to submit, but he hadn't expected her to be so steadfast, unmoved by temptation.

"In that case, Lord Ye Wan, we will not delay any longer. I hope we will have more opportunities to cooperate in the future." After the general finished speaking, he turned around and left with his team.

Ye Wan stood there, gazing at the departing team. Her heart didn't relax, but instead became even more alert. Although the immediate threat had temporarily subsided, she knew this game was far from over, and the real challenge lay ahead.

The independence and freedom of the team are what Ye Wan cherishes most now, and all of this is far from being shaken by a few tempting promises.