Finest Servant

Chapter 499

Chapter 499 The Marriage Alliance

Gu Shunzhang spoke, his hand reaching into his robe to retrieve an envelope sealed with crimson wax, still carrying a faint scent of ink. He handed it to Lin Wanrong.

"A letter from Goryeo? And it's from a woman? An international friend?" Lin Wanrong was somewhat baffled. He hastily opened the letter and read a few lines. His expression changed dramatically, a complicated mixture of joy and sorrow appearing on his face.

"Lin San, have I made a mistake? This letter is for you, isn't it?" Gu Shunzhang stroked his beard and chuckled.

"You've made no mistake; the letter is indeed for me." Lin Wanrong sighed, carefully folding the letter and tucking it into his robe. "Mr. Gu, may I be so bold as to ask, when you met this woman, was she faring well?"

Gu Shunzhang shook his head, "The armies of Dongyin are pressing the borders; Goryeo is on the brink of disaster. In times like these, who can save themselves?"

‘Indeed. War rages in Goryeo; no one could be living comfortably. And here I was, foolishly hoping that Goryeo could hold out a little longer.’ Lin Wanrong awkwardly chuckled, then lowered his voice and asked, "Mr. Gu, based on your observations, is she mobile? Does she have—?" He gestured at his waist and puffed out his belly, looking rather ridiculous.

"What are you trying to indicate?" Gu Shunzhang chuckled, stroking his beard. "I didn't notice anything amiss. The young lady seemed quite agile."

Lin Wanrong nodded, counting days on his fingers. He couldn't help but chuckle; it was too soon for any symptoms to show.

"Thank you, Mr. Gu, for bringing me this news. Lin San is eternally grateful." Lin Wanrong bowed deeply to Gu Shunzhang. Despite the awkwardness—just last night he had captured Gu Shunzhang's only son—the Emperor’s tutor had returned from Shandong bearing important news. How could he ever repay this kindness?

"It was a trivial matter, no need for thanks," Gu Shunzhang dismissed, turning to the Emperor. "Your Majesty, my apologies for discussing personal matters with Lin San during the court meeting. Please forgive us."

Facing his mentor, even the Emperor, the sovereign of the nation, was humble. He hurriedly replied, "Master Gu, you speak too harshly. Who in this world is not aware of your character? Even if we discuss personal matters in this golden palace, they are matters concerning the state. I am only afraid that my incompetence may fail to meet your teachings."

Even the Emperor was so respectful before Gu Shunzhang, repeatedly referring to him as his teacher. Lin Wanrong marveled at what kind of man could command such respect. Could Gu Shunzhang truly be an extraordinary individual?

Gu Shunzhang nodded with a smile, "Your Majesty is wise and discerning, truly a great ruler. The matter concerning Goryeo that Lin San and I were discussing is not only of personal interest but also closely related to our great Empire."

The Emperor's face lit up, "Master Gu, please share your insights. Your pupil is all ears."

Gu Shunzhang nodded slightly, rose to his feet, and paced a few steps before saying seriously, "The large-scale invasion of Goryeo by Dongyin is an overt act of aggression that everyone knows about. Only our Emperor has the foresight and wit to respond brilliantly. By allying Goryeo with our Great Hua, we have integrated as one entity. By raising armies locally and providing immediate support, we not only leave Dongyin in a state of dilemma, but we also expand our own territories, achieving unparalleled feats. It's truly turning crisis into opportunity, benefiting in every way."

Hearing such high praise from his imperial tutor, the old Emperor couldn't help but be overjoyed. "Master Gu, you flatter me. This idea came from Lin San; I merely acted according to the circumstances."

How could Gu Shunzhang not know that it was Lin San's idea? He chuckled with his fist cupped in his other hand, "Your Majesty, the strategy of one country two systems is unprecedented and extraordinary. Even an old man like me, who claims to have read thousands of volumes, could not have thought of such an idea. The young Lin San possesses such insight and boldness; it's truly awe-inspiring."

The imperial tutor began by lavishly praising Lin San, yet he made no mention of capturing the prince. Not only were the others puzzled, even Lin Wanrong found it confusing.

"Lin San, Master Gu holds you in high regard; you should quickly express your gratitude," the Emperor commanded sternly, though the smile in his eyes was evident to all.

Seeing Gu Shunzhang smiling at him, Lin Wanrong had no choice but to muster the courage to cup his fist in his other hand. "Master Gu, you're too kind. I merely stumbled upon this strategy; it's nothing about having any particular insight or boldness. I'm ashamed."

Gu Shunzhang chuckled and patted him on the shoulder. "Young man, it's good to be ambitious and willing to take responsibility. Being too modest would only appear disingenuous. Besides, I'm not praising you entirely—your strategy of one country two systems is good, but it does have its flaws. It needs further refinement to be considered perfect."

Lin Wanrong blinked, finally catching on. So, after all the talk, this last statement was the most important! Gu Shunzhang had artfully offered praise to please everyone first, before subtly pointing out areas for improvement, ensuring the mood wasn't spoiled. This was truly an art of speech, and Master Gu was deeply proficient in it.

The Emperor quickly asked, "How can this plan be improved? Please, Master Gu, enlighten us."

Gu Shunzhang smiled and nodded. "The ultimate goal of this strategy is to integrate Goryeo into the territory of Great Hua; this is beyond question. However, Your Majesty, do you wish for Goryeo to willingly submit, or to keep up appearances while maintaining distance?"

The Emperor responded, "Master Gu jests. My intention for expanding Great Hua is to genuinely have Goryeo submit."

"In that case, there's no question," Gu Shunzhang paced a few steps in the golden hall before speaking seriously. "This strategy is well-planned, stationing Great Hua’s troops, reducing Goryeo's military, relocating the populace, and establishing schools; each step aims at the heart of the matter. However, have you considered that in the eyes of the people of Goryeo, these moves are oppressive? The people of Goryeo, though considered barbarians, are not so easily subdued. To quickly win their hearts will likely be very difficult."

Truly deserving of the title 'imperial tutor,' his analysis was sharp and incisive, prompting everyone to nod silently in agreement. The Emperor joyously said, "Master Gu has hit the nail on the head. Using force is not a lasting solution, but does Master Gu have any better suggestions?"

Gu Shunzhang cast a glance at Lin Wanrong and smiled. "Lin San, what do you think?"

"I understand what you mean, Mr. Gu," Lin Wanrong replied, nodding slightly. "Suppressing the opposition is only a temporary solution; reconciliation is the true path. However, I'm not particularly skilled in the art of pacification."

"This art of pacification," Gu Shunzhang picked up the conversation, "our ancestors have taught us many methods." He smiled mysteriously and continued, "Besides granting rewards and incentives, there's something even more effective—"

"Something more effective?" Lin Wanrong felt uneasy under Gu's scrutinizing gaze and couldn't help but ask.

With a solemn face, Gu Shunzhang enunciated each word: "A—Marriage—Alliance!"

"I object!" As soon as the words left the imperial tutor's mouth, Lin Wanrong's face turned pale, and he shouted in disagreement.

Gu Shunzhang looked at him in astonishment. "Lin San, a marriage alliance is the best means of pacification and reconciliation. What are you objecting to?"

‘This old man must be pretending to be clueless,’ Lin Wanrong thought. ‘Everyone knows that my father-in-law has only two princesses, and both are now part of the Lin family. Do you expect one of my wives to marry into another family? Dream on!’

He merely grunted a few times without saying anything. The Emperor understood his thoughts and frowned. "Master Gu, I'm afraid the marriage alliance is not feasible. Some time ago, the Prince of Goryeo personally came to ask for the princess's hand in marriage but was defeated in the trials. This is public knowledge; how can I possibly marry off the princess again?"

"Exactly," Lin Wanrong quickly agreed. "That Prince of Goryeo is lacking in character and knowledge. I've seen it with my own eyes; he is not worthy of our Great Hua's princess."

Everyone knew what was on his mind, but no one chose to point it out. Gu Shunzhang laughed heartily, "Your Majesty, you misunderstand me. To have our princess marry into a foreign nation in exchange for national stability is a sign of weakness. Why should Great Hua resort to such a feeble strategy?"

Hearing that the plan didn't involve marrying off either of the princesses, Lin Wanrong breathed a sigh of relief. ‘As long as it's not Xian'er or Qingxuan, I don't care what you do.’

The Emperor, puzzled, asked, "Master Gu, if it's not our princess getting married off, then how does this marriage alliance work?"

The imperial tutor smiled and bowed slightly, "It's not our princess who will marry into Goryeo, but rather a princess from Goryeo who will marry into Great Hua! Your Majesty, during my recent trip, I learned that Goryeo has experienced a change. The King of Goryeo personally promised to send his most cherished princess to marry a young talent of our empire. If this marriage alliance succeeds, Great Hua and Goryeo will be as one family. Advancing our alliance strategy will then be twice as effective!"

So, it’s a princess from Goryeo who would be married into Great Hua. What a good idea; we certainly won't be at a disadvantage. Overjoyed, the Emperor stepped down from his throne and looked around before laughing out loud. "Goryeo wishes to send a princess for a marriage alliance. What do you all think? Should our Empire accept?"

‘The old man has really pulled a fast one. The princess can’t be married to you anyway.’ Lin Wanrong thought, suppressing a laugh.

Seeing that the proposal came from their trusted adviser and would bring only benefits to Great Hua, everyone naturally nodded in agreement, following the line of Master Gu's thinking.

Seeing no objections, the old Emperor nodded solemnly. "Since the King of Goryeo is so sincere, we should not mistreat their princess. Following Master Gu's advice, let us choose the most outstanding young man from our Great Hua Dynasty to marry the Goryeo princess. This will demonstrate the care and love of our dynasty, uniting our two nations as one family for generations to come. My ministers, do help me think where we could find such a young man."

It's just a Goryeo princess; any strong man from their Great Hua would suffice. Watching the ministers begin to brainstorm earnestly, Lin Wanrong found it amusing.

Today's agenda was supposed to discuss matters regarding Prince Cheng. Who knew that Gu Shunzhang would divert the topic to selecting a suitable groom for the Goryeo princess? The ministers were taking the matter so seriously that the atmosphere in the golden hall became indescribably strange. Only Gu Shunzhang, who initiated this situation, looked calm and smiling, as if it had nothing to do with him.

"My ministers, do we have a suitable candidate?" After a moment passed like the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the Emperor's gaze swept over the assembled officials.

After brief consideration, a scholar from the Hall of Literary Brilliance stepped forward and respectfully said, "Your Majesty, our Great Hua has a long history and under your wise rule, our Empire is full of capable people. Finding a young man fit for the Goryeo princess will not be difficult. Given a few hours, if not ten thousand, we could at least find eight thousand suitable candidates."

Hearing this, the Emperor burst into laughter, and Lin Wanrong shuddered at the thought of the young man's bright future. "When did our Empire produce such a sycophantic talent? How have I not noticed?"

"However," the scholar continued, "given Your Majesty's kindness and generosity toward foreign countries, the chosen candidate should be the most outstanding young man in our Empire. After discussion, we find that the most fitting young man in terms of appearance, achievement, and reputation is—"

He paused and discreetly glanced at Lin Wanrong.

All eyes in the hall turned towards Lin Wanrong, and the atmosphere grew peculiarly quiet.

"Uh, sir, you're not talking about me, are you?" Lin Wanrong pointed to his own nose, laughing in surprise.

The Hall of Literary Brilliance scholar nodded solemnly, "Throughout the history of our dynasty, no one has surpassed you, Lord Lin! You should take it upon yourself. Your Majesty, we believe Lord Lin is the most suitable for this marriage!"

As if prearranged, all the officials bowed and chorused, "We believe Lord Lin is the most suitable!"

It was too unexpected; the age-old practice of diplomatic marriage had actually fallen upon him. Lin Wanrong's mouth gaped open, wide enough to stuff two eggs.

"Lin San, what are your thoughts?" The Emperor grunted through his nose.

Cold sweat trickled down Lin Wanrong's back, and he raised his right hand hastily. "Your Majesty, I swear, my intentions toward the princess are serious—more genuine than gold and silver!"

"The princess? Do you mean the Goryeo princess?" The Hall of Literary Brilliance scholar eagerly bowed, "Your Majesty, you heard it yourself. Lord Lin's solemn oath is a deep expression of love towards the Goryeo princess. Given his character and integrity, I believe this marriage is assured."

‘Have your ears grown on your buttocks? My confession was intended for Princess of Great Hua, not the Goryeo princess!’ Lin Wanrong's irritation was beyond words.

The Emperor's face turned exceedingly grim, and he snorted angrily, "Lin San, you've changed rather quickly!"

"This is a complete misunderstanding," Lin Wanrong said with a wry smile. "Your Majesty, please do not readily believe in rumors. My vows were made to Qingxuan and Xian'er. As for sending me for a marriage alliance and having me marry a Goryeo woman—Your Majesty, you might as well send me to the battlefield!"

The old Emperor's expression lightened slightly. He turned to Gu Shunzhang and asked, "Master Gu, do you have any suitable candidates?"

Gu Shunzhang's gaze fixated on Lin Wanrong, his face full of mysterious smiles. Lin Wanrong felt his hairs stand on end and prayed silently, ‘Master Gu, please don't harm me. The Emperor is known for his partiality, and I have a house full of jealous women already.’

The imperial tutor pondered for a moment before quietly asking, "Lin San, do you already have a wife at home?"

"Yes, yes, quite a few, in fact," Lin Wanrong hastily nodded.

Gu Shunzhang let out an "Oh" and smiled, "Well then, one more wouldn't make much difference. Lin San, would you mind taking another wife?"

The old man gave him a cold smirk, and Lin Wanrong, terrified out of his wits, quickly waved his hands, "I do mind, I very much mind! I have little money and even less space at home; I can't afford to support another."

"Rest assured," Gu Shunzhang grinned. "The dowry from the Goryeo King would suffice to support your entire family for a lifetime. What harm would one more do? Even if you run out of money, all of Great Hua would support you with a single call from you! Oh, I forgot to mention, this Goryeo princess is beautiful, dignified, and scholarly. She is a perfect match for you; you should consider it!"

‘Stop kidding, my perfect match is Qingxuan. When did it become the Goryeo princess?’ Lin Wanrong shook his head firmly, his face solemn. "Master Gu, I deeply love my wives and cannot accommodate—" He counted on his fingers and then resolutely said, "Cannot accommodate a ninth woman! Please tell the Goryeo princess that I am a man already committed. Thank you!"

Who would have thought, Lin Wanrong is such a faithful man. Those present couldn't help but admire him.

Gu Shunzhang looked at him earnestly, "Lin San, won't you reconsider? You were the one who proposed this alliance strategy. The enduring peace between the two lands hinges on this decision. To be honest, across the entire Great Hua, there isn't a second person more suited for this young lady than you."

The imperial tutor was truly persuasive, but Lin Wanrong shook his head like a rattle drum, refusing to yield.

Master Gu sighed deeply and resignedly said, "In that case, it seems you and her are not meant to be. Lin San, this is a choice you're making. Should you regret it later, don't come seeking me!"

"Regret?" Lin Wanrong chuckled, brimming with confidence. "Master Gu, rest assured. It's better to rely on oneself than to rely on others; I learned this truth twenty years ago."

The old man Emperor seemed quite pleased with his attitude. However, the matter of this marriage alliance was of great national significance. If it truly required sacrificing Lin San's fidelity, then it wasn't entirely off the table. It would just mean Qingxuan and Xian'er would have to suffer some grievances.

"Master Gu, is Lin San truly the only option?" The Emperor pondered for a long time before speaking.

"I've said all that needs to be said. He has given up a good marriage prospect of his own accord. There will be a day when he will regret it!" Gu Shunzhang shook his head, "Your Majesty, let us find another suitable match for the Goryeo princess, then!"

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