Yeah, I do agree that he seems to take a 180 when talking about his treatment of his soldiers. It's clear that he doesn't care that much about his mercenaries (aside for his personal gain), and I kinda doubt he is loved by the citizen army. I still think he's competent, and should be kept alive if possible as long as he can be used. Possible rebellion and threat of foreign invasion are still a big problem after all.
I really wonder how older brother will even try to rebel though. The noblemen seem to like Hercule, so... maybe he will asks foreign help? ....nah, no way he's that stupid, right?