Cui Changfeng had never dealt with Chen Ye before.
He had only heard that the man came from humble origins and supposedly had a considerable talent for martial arts.
Having roamed far and wide for years, he had met countless figures in the Jianghu. At first, he had dismissed such rumors, not believing Chen Ye truly possessed that much ability.
Only when Chen Ye displayed his strength did Cui Changfeng realize that this young man had genuine substance—and a talent for martial arts that was astonishingly strong.
His tone and attitude thus softened noticeably, taking on a hint of an attempt to win Chen Ye over.
Chen Ye noticed the change, and a trace of disdain flitted through his heart.
For now, however, he still needed the protection of Cui Changfeng's banner. He would set their past friction aside and leave the man some face.
He cupped his hands in salute and said humbly, "You flatter me, my lord. Your subordinate merely got lucky."
Seeing that Chen Ye was not pressing the earlier matter, Cui Changfeng made no effort to conceal his approval. "During this river crossing, you held the rear and cut off the enemy, allowing more than half the Servant Soldiers to withdraw safely. Yours was the foremost contribution—a feat of both wisdom and courage!"
Chen Ye seized the opening. "There is something I would like you to clarify, my lord."
"Speak freely."
"Before we crossed the river, you sent a messenger to deliver instructions to me." Chen Ye raised his head and looked directly at Cui Changfeng, asking earnestly, "You stated that if I brought back a hundred men, I would be credited with the foremost contribution, and that I could exchange that military merit for an official post with actual duties and a high-grade Dragon Elephant