The imperial edict came down very quickly. In consideration of the meritorious service rendered by Qin Hu's ancestor, his capital punishment was commuted, but he could not escape lesser penalties. He was exiled to Youzhou to serve in the army, while retaining his title of nobility to observe his future conduct.
However, upon arriving in Youzhou, he was promptly assigned to the front lines—to serve at the vanguard commander's tent.
After turning these events over in his mind, Qin Hu basically figured it out: this must be a trap.
Chapter 548