“Mo Xie, are you saying that we simply abandon the men who have been following our Jun family for generations?” Jun Zhan Tian was quite angry, but reconciled to just stroking his beard in displeasure: “This is a matter of personal integrity and ethics, we share trials and tribulations, whether in life or in death, so you might as well give up that idea! Your idea…..” Grandfather Jun didn’t say it directly, but the criticality of his statement was evident.
“Grandfather, I understand that you don’t approve of my opinion, but I’d like to ask, if you’re preoccupied with these highly incompetent people, then this might cost the lives of countless soldiers due to their incompetence. Given the situation at hand, wouldn’t it be better to weigh the pros and cons here? Over the years, the border has been becoming increasingly unstable, and wars are being raged perennially, and the Third Uncle previously mentioned that these generals are veterans and are likely to lead their armies to confront the enemy, which means that thousands of soldiers are likely to die! For me, if a person is truly incompetent, then it’s better to renounce the same, otherwise, they will falter at a crucial moment when burdened with a heavy responsibility, which will result in a defeat! In some key moments, it might even affect the fate of the entire country! How can this be considered a trivial matter? How is my opinion heartless in this perspective?”
Jun Mo Xie proudly retorted: “I suggest that we round up the so-called incompetent and reckless soldiers and use them as meat shields. Their sacrifice will help us prevent this country from the defeat that we might otherwise have to face at the hands of the enemy, and if that happens, then the entire country will set on the path of annihilation! And this is the hard truth Grandfather, Third Uncle, even if you refuse to admit it. At a crucial moment, it might be painful to make such decisions, but the price we may have to pay for this softheartedness will be far too great!”
“They are servants, and must be used in a time of need! We will have to refrain from acting emotionally, and concentrate on the welfare of the majority of our command. As a leader, if you start acting emotionally, then you’ve already failed! Grandfather, Third Uncle, if my words offend you, then please forgive me, but the gravity of this matter surpasses principles and I cannot compromise on this!”
Jun Zhan Tian and Jun Wu Yi were both silent. They were both sensible and intelligent men; they simply couldn’t ignore the hard reality, even if these words weren’t very pleasant to hear. But for a leader, compassion and leniency are the biggest taboos.
Although they acknowledged that Jun Mo Xie’s words made sense, the idea was still against their character, and they wouldn’t agree to it. They deserved their venerable status, even though they were slaves of their pedantic thoughts, but were still admirable men!
Or perhaps, this too was an embodiment of their glorious nature!
Jun Mo Xie chuckled and said: “Naturally, we are still just speculating the course of this matter, and the reality might turn out to be an entirely different affair, but I just wish to remind you Grandfather, Third Uncle, that we must renounce our emotions since we will need to act decisively when the time comes!”
Jun Zhan Tian and Jun Wu Yi inadvertently glanced at Jun Mo Xie and were shocked to see the fierce expression on his face. Jun Wu Yi tensed his eyebrows thoughtfully, and couldn’t help but anticipate that Jun Mo Xie would likely forge his path in this world with his skills. But his heart shuddered at the coldness of his nephew. He was aware of his nephew’s position in the family, but as a military leader, it was awfully hard for him to part with the affection he felt for his comrades, but Jun Mo Xie was certainly right!
Jun Zhan Tian stroked his beard as his eyes and mind saw the transparency in Jun Mo Xie’s character, even though he was fiery but his political prowess has evident. However, too much ambition would end up flooding his hands with blood! Is this a blessing? Or a curse? Grandfather Jun couldn’t resist the thought, and sighed as he lowered his head.
The old man was born into poverty and had worked his way through the world to achieve success, which is why he was extremely affectionate towards his soldiers, especially the ones who had worked their way up like him.
In my sixty years of military experience, stricken with wars and politics, I have settled many disputes and taken many lives…. Even those of young children. When I look back on the number of bodies that I’ve put on the funeral pyre, Jun Mo Xie’s idea is quite acceptable, in fact, I have to admire my grandson’s vision.
Jun Wu Yi unintentionally arched his head and addressed Pang: “Uncle Pang, this matter is very important, and you must ensure that the necessary actions are taken, this matter takes precedence over all other matters.”
His real nam