Chen Xuanqing's words were like a sharp sword, aimed straight at the doubts and worries in Jiang Xu's and Long Shihu's hearts.
They fell silent for a moment, seemingly considering his words.
Chen Xuanqing took the opportunity to gulp down another mouthful of tea, easing the discomfort of his parched mouth and throat.
In truth, Chen Xuanqing knew perfectly well that these two had befriended the crown prince not out of any noble friendship or affection, but for the power and status they hoped to gain in the future.
Still, they were generals of the empire, and they were loyal to the crown prince. As long as he could persuade them to stand on the crown prince's side, victory in this war would be assured.
The atmosphere in the room grew strange. Chen Xuanqing and Qian Renxue sat upright on either side of the wooden table, their expressions calm as they sipped their tea, mouthful after mouthful, as though it were some exquisite brew.
Across from them, however, Long Shihu and Jiang Xu could barely sit still.
They exchanged glances from time to time, silently discussing something, while their hands fidgeted so often that it was almost comical.
The stark contrast made the atmosphere in the room even more peculiar.
At last, after the time it took to drink a cup of tea, Long Shihu and Jiang Xu seemed to reach a decision. They rose together and dropped to their knees before Qian Renxue.
Their voices rang out, firm and strong, like an oath: "We pledge our lives to Your Highness the Crown Prince!"
At the sight, a gentle smile appeared on Qian Renxue's face.
She stepped forward herself and helped them up, saying sincerely, "Generals, please rise. We all act for the future of the Heaven Dou Empire. There