The Demon Swordsman 3
Ch. 119 - Fair Respect
After long discussions and meetings, the Qin Emperor's decision was irreversible. The old pillars that served during the crisis in the Shang Empire will be re-descended, because in reality they are 'temporary' substitutes'. In another sense, they are not official other than to fill empty places.
The policy of Emperor Qin made internal conflicts inevitable.
Today is the determination of everything. Emperor Qin stood in a tower where he could see the entire population coming from various places gathered with a great fanfare. Unexpectedly this celebration was so festive, people filled every street, cheering in joy.
He looked at his entire people. Proud and happy at the same time. Just like the first time he saw his father standing in front of everyone, unfortunately the man was no longer there to see him standing here.
The man next to him shouted, telling everyone to be quiet so that Emperor Qin could speak freely.
"The disaster and distress have passed, there is no harm in rejoicing after going through difficult times. Cheer, shout, our protectors have come home. Although some choose to be part of the Valley of the Gods ... They died with honor. This is our biggest win!"
Countless voices greeted him afterwards, echoing loudly full of euphoria. Emperor Qin involuntarily laughed out loud. A long laugh was never seen on his face. Perhaps the crisis in the Shang Empire had snatched away the smile on the man's face. He took a deep breath. His heart was relieved.
Emperor Qin whispered briefly to the big tall man beside him. Next the man took over, reciting a piece of letter tied with a gold rope. His voice even sounded from a distance away.
"No matter the current issues, the celebration of victory was incomplete without the presence of the heroes who fought on the battlefield for this Empire."
Those who survived the fight in the Valley of the Gods were summoned one by one honorably. Including the members of the Four Surveillance Units. One broad stage has been full of heroes who are now respected by the entire community. They raised their faces, smiling proudly. Including the two sons of the Xin Clan who stood at the very front.
The series of events went well. Until finally they arrived at the most important part where Emperor Qin again stood in front of his people.
Face amazed. The sun had already risen overhead, the heat burning the entire street of Fanlu City. But the enthusiasm is still the same as this morning.
The man said a few things briefly. "Without further ado, I would like to announce that it is time that we choose the new Imperial Pillars for this country!"
The men clenched their hands up, crying out in agreement. Emperor Qin had set all this down a long time ago, it was just that a cruel political game had occurred.
The nobles who stood not far from him put on unhappy faces, including the higher-ups and important people of the Empire.
"They are the ones who will become the honorable heroes of this Empire!"
The situation is getting warmer. But all of that was muffled as one voice drew everyone's attention, that voice came from Xin Chen.
"I'm sorry, Your Majesty, cut off your conversation."
Emperor Qin put on a puzzled face, staring at the blue-eyed youth's face. Can't guess what he's trying to say. A few people beside Emperor Qin glared at Xin Chen sinisterly, as if giving a warning just in case Xin Chen made an uproar in the middle of this important event.
Xin Chen took a breath.
"I think there's someone more deserving of this award. A father and a husband who fight to the last blood point for this Empire."
"I want an honor and appreciation for this person, Bai Huang. And to all those who have fought desperately there." Xin Chen emphasized, "It's not just those who survived the war."
Xin Chen's words managed to induce a prolonged silence. The atmosphere that was previously lively and lively was suddenly silent.
"Say, what kind of honor do you want?"
Given the chance, Xin Chen felt victorious from the elites who stared dislikefully at him. He smiled, looking ahead at where everyone was waiting for him to speak.
"Before that I wanted to tell you about Bai Huang. A desecrated Imperial Pillar."
Seen there, those faces started to panic when Xin Chen was about to uncover the truth.
"The former Third Imperial Pillar who fought day and night for the sake of our empire, protecting without expecting a reward. But being insulted and made fun of like shit. While trashy, worshipped like God."
Emperor Qin furrowed his brows. This topic may be classified as sensitive, fearing it will cause conflict. A number of bodyguards and Fighters began to stand by, afraid of unexpected circumstances coming.
No one dared to stop Xin Chen, the young man continued.
"He was accused, though not guilty. Dropped from his chair, they were paraded bare-chested, and they left two wounds on him. Burns on his back and wounds on his heart. His sincerity towards the Shang Empire had been hurt. But what?"
Xin Chen recalled clearly the time he met Bai Huang for the first time after so many years. His ever-groomy and majestic clothes turned into shabby clothes and full of mud. He began to forget about the fight, starting a normal life. Building a happy little family. Perhaps his old wounds had made him so resentful of a swordsman and a sword.
"After all the humiliation he received. He confirmed my request to return to fight for this Empire. Fight in the Valley of the Gods and prove that he is an honorable hero!" Xin Chen raised his voice.
Everyone looks confused. Truth revealed. Bai Huang was not a murderer, they could not believe the noble family who accused him of doing that to an Imperial Pillar.
Sure enough, the commotion began. Xin Chen's protest drew a commotion. Everyone started cheering for Bai Huang's justice.
"The honor I want for Senior Bai is to let go of the murderous nickname that he was given. And for those who died in the Valley of the Gods, make a monument containing their names. That's it."
Xin Chen retreated after delivering it. His heart felt calmer, at least everyone knew who the rotten person who threw dirt on the name of the Third Pillar had gone.
Two minutes went on with an uncontrollable commotion. Until Emperor Qin raised one hand, making the situation calm again in just a matter of seconds.
"I think so too." He cast a glance at his entire people. "They deserve the respect they deserve. I will make a magnificent monument with carvings of their names. So that family or relatives who have gone home can come to the place to remember them."
Of course, this decision is something that everyone is looking forward to. Luckily Xin Chen asked Emperor Qin directly. Even in those cheerful moments it was seen some crying full of haru. That's what they need to remember their dead family.
"Just go. Without lingering, I alone will appoint our new Imperial Pillar."