Finest Servant

Chapter 475 Life is Like Flowing Water

Seeing Lin Wanrong deep in thought, seemingly considering the offer, the old Emperor faintly smiled and gestured to Gao Ping. Eunuch Gao understood, and gently helped Qin Xian’er up, respectfully saying, "Princess, Miss Luo, His Majesty has important matters to discuss with Mr. Lin. Would the two of you please leave with me?"

Qin Xian'er glanced at the Emperor worriedly and said, "Father, my husband has severe injuries. Please do not make it difficult for him."

"Difficult?" The Emperor chuckled and gently caressed his daughter's hair. "Do you know how many people in this world wish that I would trouble them in such a way? Yet, he is hesitating. He truly doesn't know how fortunate he is."

Once Eunuch Gao had led the two young ladies out, the room became exceedingly quiet with only the two men left. The Emperor slowly took a seat, his face relaxed. He closed his eyes for a moment to rejuvenate, appearing completely at ease.

After pondering for a while, Lin Wanrong swallowed hard and cautiously asked, "Really, I can do whatever I want, marry whoever I want?"

"Yes!" The old Emperor's smile was slight, but his tone was resolute and firm.

"And what about Sister An, and Fairy Ning—"

"Yes!!!" The Emperor interrupted, as if reading his mind, giving a decisive answer before Lin Wanrong could finish speaking.

"Even that is possible?" Lin Wanrong hesitated, then cautiously added, "What if there are some actions that go against morals and public decency?"

"Go against morals and public decency?" The Emperor burst into uproarious laughter, declaring loudly, "What is morality? What is decency? Why do you believe in the judgments of common folk? When you stand at the pinnacle of Mount Tai, with the lands and the people at your feet, who will question your morality or your decency? Your every word, your every action, will be the unbreakable rule of law. Who would dare to oppose you?"

"That... seems to make some sense," Lin Wanrong felt greatly moved.

Seeing that the young man seemed tempted, the Emperor was secretly delighted but did not show it. He dusted off his sleeves and calmly said, "So, have you made your decision? I have many state affairs to attend to and can't wait around for you."

Lin Wanrong nodded, smiling, "I've considered it, but I’m afraid you might not like my decision."

"What?" The Emperor was infuriated. All his kind persuasion had only resulted in this? His face flushed red with anger. "You dare to mock me? Guards, drag Lin San out—"

"Wait, wait." Seeing that the Emperor was genuinely angry, his booming voice causing the window curtains to flutter, Lin Wanrong quickly interjected, "Please, don't be hasty. Let me finish speaking."

"What more is there to say?" The Emperor coldly chuckled, "You are very bold, aren't you? Do you think that with the protection of Nishang and Chuyun, I wouldn’t dare to touch you? You have not yet seen what I'm capable of. Guards, guards—"

"Your Majesty, it’s a misunderstanding, a misunderstanding." Lin Wanrong chuckled awkwardly, sensing the Emperor was about to take serious action, "That's not what I meant."

"Then what did you mean?" The Emperor's eyes shimmered with intense light as he fixed his gaze on Lin Wanrong, continuing to huff in irritation.

‘You know, for an old Emperor who'd been on the throne for quite some time, he did have a certain intimidating aura about him.’ Lin Wanrong couldn't withstand his gaze and hurriedly lowered his head, chuckling. "The truth is, Your Majesty, you know me well. I'm by nature a free-spirited man who can't stand too many constraints. As for the matters you mentioned—if I manage to accomplish them, then that's all well and good. But if I mess things up, not only would it endanger the prosperity of the Empire, but it would also tarnish your legendary reputation, wouldn't you agree?"

The Emperor snorted. "Don't try to dodge the issue. I know your capabilities better than anyone. You're just making excuses because you don't want to serve me."

‘Ah, this old man, always harping on my thick skin.’ Lin Wanrong chuckled audibly. "Look at you, making assumptions. We're all family here; why wouldn't I help you? I'm not making excuses; I'm actually considering other options—"

"What options?" The Emperor looked indifferent, calmly asking.

"Your Majesty. Xian'er and Qingxuan are both your daughters, correct?" Lin Wanrong glanced mysteriously toward the outside and lowered his voice.

Was this even a question? Observing Lin Wanrong's sly and enigmatic manner, the old Emperor felt both amused and irritated. If it weren't for the fact that Lin Wanrong was injured, he would've probably kicked him right then and there. ŕÀŊỌʙЁş

"They are your daughters, and at the same time, my wives. Moreover, Qingxuan is—" Lin Wanrong patted his own belly a few times, mimicking a round shape. The Emperor burst out both laughing and cursing, "How dare you bring that up? My Princess Chuyun was like a goddess, admired and loved by countless young talents across the world. And you, you scoundrel, not only did you desecrate her, but you also got her pregnant. You've disgraced and scandalized the royal family, and I haven't even settled the score with you yet!"

‘The fact that a goddess-like girl like Qingxuan is pregnant only proves how capable your son-in-law is. It's just a little ahead of schedule; if this happened after the wedding, there wouldn't be any issue.’ Of course, he was unashamed about it. Instead, he was pleased, chuckling, "Your Majesty, Qingxuan being pregnant is a good thing. Think about it, this child will not only inherit the excellent genes of my Lin family but more importantly, he'll carry your royal bloodline—"

"You, what did you say?" The Emperor trembled, asking eagerly.

Lin Wanrong's expression instantly became incredibly serious. "Your Majesty, Qingxuan is your daughter, carrying the most exalted royal bloodline. The child in her belly—doesn't that mean he has the royal bloodline as well?"

The Emperor gave a bitter smile and shook his head. "What's the use of having my royal blood if his surname is Lin, not Zhao?"

Lin Wanrong laughed heartily. "Whether his surname is Lin or Zhao, aren't we all one family? If you're feeling lonely, why don't you ask Qingxuan and Xian'er to work a little harder and have a few more children? In the future, we can name two boys 'Zhao.' Problem solved!"

"You, are you serious?!" The Emperor shook with emotion, his facial muscles twitching. His beard even bristled. "Lin San, you better not go back on your word!"

In this era, aside from special cases like Qin Xian'er and Xiao Qingxuan, following the matrilineal surname was a great taboo. Even adoption would only happen within the same clan; adopting children with different surnames was absolutely forbidden. Someone as liberal as Lin Wanrong was truly rare under the heavens.

"What's true or false about it?" Lin Wanrong chuckled carelessly. "Whether they take their father's surname or their mother's, they're still my children! Of course, Qingxuan and Xian'er have to agree to it; I have no objections."

"Good, good, you said it yourself," the old Emperor mumbled excitedly, his hands trembling. This was an unexpected gain he had not anticipated. No wonder Lin San had been so reluctant; he had already thought of a way out. This young man was indeed cunning, leaving the difficult decisions for his descendants to handle. He held real power, yet remained free and unburdened—truly the best of both worlds.

The Emperor was elated for a moment, but then his face suddenly darkened as if remembering something. He sighed softly, "I fear it's still impossible. Though you are willing, I simply don't have the time left—"

"Your Majesty, please don't say such things," Lin Wanrong said solemnly. "The most important thing in life is to be happy. If one spends their days sighing and worrying, even a healthy person can't last long. On the other hand, even if one is sick, as long as they live a fulfilling and joyful life, what's the harm in it being short-lived? Take yourself, Your Majesty. Despite your poor health, once Qingxuan and Xian'er give birth and the royal bloodline is secured, you'll spend your days happily doting on your grandchildren. Your body will naturally become robust. To speak plainly, with your imperial majesty, what's stopping you from borrowing a few more years from Heaven? Do you not even have the courage for that?"

"What a flattering yet truthful remark!" The Emperor looked deeply at him and then burst into hearty laughter. "Good, good, Lin San, you're absolutely right. After weathering so many storms, what's stopping me from borrowing a few more years from Heaven? Who would dare refuse me?"

Lin Wanrong was overjoyed, "So does this mean, Your Majesty, that you agree to my suggestion?"

"Agree? Agree to what?" The Emperor chuckled mischievously, "You've pushed all the responsibility away quite cleanly. Rare to see such a father. However, your idea is indeed to my liking. Let's settle it then. If the Princess gives birth to a male heir, he will take the surname Zhao and be my legitimate grandson. Hahaha! Heaven has finally opened its eyes; I, Zhao Yuanyu, finally have descendants!"

So the Emperor's name was Zhao Yuanyu. Seeing his excited demeanor, Lin Wanrong understood, but couldn't help but find it amusing. With this and his promise to Madam Xiao, the Lin family was truly branching out—into three clans!

"Your Majesty, then do you still object to my matters with Ning'er and the others?" Lin Wanrong seized the opportunity to ask as Zhao Yuanyu was in high spirits.

Zhao Yuanyu snorted softly and spoke slowly, "You think you can win me over with the promise of a grandson? Such a thing won't come easily. However, in consideration of your filial piety, I'll make a concession. You can marry the Princess and then marry Miss Luo; I won't interfere. But whatever responsibilities that should belong to you, you must take them all on."

"Impossible," Lin Wanrong shouted, his face a portrait of misery. "Old man, haven't I already found a solution for you? Why are you still after me?"

"Do you take me for a fool?" Emperor Zhao Yuanyu gave a cold laugh. "Ignoring a perfectly good candidate in favor of a child who isn't even born yet? What if that child turns out to be a righteous person? Where would I go to complain then? So, you see, you are the most reliable option, which also saves me from worry." Lin Wanrong was at a loss for words. So, the old man valued not his talents but his lack of integrity!

"However, you don't need to be too afraid." The Emperor patted Lin Wanrong's shoulder, grinning wickedly. "I will guide you well, and of course, my virtuous grandson too. Ah, this is the happiest moment I've had in years!"

Lin Wanrong was fuming inside. He finally understood that when it came to cunning and craftiness, he was no match for Zhao Yuanyu. The old man had fooled him again.

Seeing Lin Wanrong's sullen face and knowing he had gotten a great deal, Zhao Yuanyu waved his hand and chuckled, "Well, let's discuss this matter later. Now, there's something I need to ask you."

‘Do I have to answer just because you ask?’ Lin Wanrong hummed inwardly, his expression unfriendly.

The old Emperor sighed softly, "I heard that Miss Guo is returning to Jinling. Is that so?"

Lin Wanrong was shocked. How did the Emperor know news he had just found out himself? Was there a spy in his house?

"You don't have to be surprised," Zhao Yuanyu seemed to see through his thoughts and waved dismissively. "I don't necessarily have to keep an eye on you. You've even refused what the whole world desires, what would I be worried about? The maids and servants in your house were personally selected by me for their loyalty. It's not a big deal that I knew some news." He paused and sighed, "Why is Miss Guo suddenly leaving for Jinling? Do you know?"

‘Nonsense. I just found out too. How could Madam, so strong-willed, tell me why she wants to leave?’ Lin Wanrong snorted, "I don't know. I just heard about it."

Zhao Yuanyu gave him a long look, stood up, and began pacing the room. For a long while, he didn't speak, and the sound of his footsteps rustled on the floor.

Growing impatient, Lin Wanrong was about to speak when the old Emperor quietly asked, "Did you offend her?"

‘Offend her? I've saved her, actually. As for minor bumps and scuffles, those were things of the past.’ He shook his head firmly, "No!"

"No?" The Emperor suddenly approached him, his gaze as sharp as lightning, his face icy, and his voice raised, "Are you telling the truth?"

‘Suspicious old man! Even if I did offend her, would I tell you?’ Lin Wanrong's stubborn streak surged, and he met the Emperor's gaze fearlessly, "Your Majesty, do I have a reason to lie?"

The old Emperor looked at him for a long time before sighing, "Even if you didn't offend Miss Guo, her sudden departure must have some reason! I know Miss Guo's temperament. At such a crucial time for the Xiao family, she wouldn't leave without good reason. Considering all the people she's met, you're the most suspicious when it comes to being cunning and crafty!"

‘Accused of what? I had a golden opportunity to take advantage while buried under rubble and even that I let go. I'm cleaner than tofu, for heaven's sake.’ Lin Wanrong sneered inwardly, but of course, he couldn't say this out loud. "Your Majesty, instead of asking me, why don't you ask the Madam herself? That would clear everything up."

His words struck a nerve in Emperor Zhao Yuanyu. "If I could ask Miss Guo, why would I be seeking you out?" The Emperor huffed. "Your handling of the Xiao family affair was a mess. You couldn't even take care of your own household. How could you handle anything else? If it weren't for your timely actions, this could have been a lifelong regret for you."

Though the Emperor's words were harsh, they were also true, and Lin Wanrong had to grit his teeth in acceptance. "Don't worry, I'll take care of this. Not for anyone else, but for Xian'er, for my wives, and for myself!"

"Four days until the army deploys—" Emperor Zhao Yuanyu nodded slightly, speaking softly. "Do what needs to be done and take care of yourself. Don't let your carelessness trip you up again. And don't misunderstand; I'm not concerned for you, but I don't want to see my two princesses heartbroken."

"Understood, understood," Lin Wanrong nodded, smiling. "I will give you a satisfactory answer."

"What did you say?" The Emperor's face changed. "What answer do I want? I swore before my deceased father—I know nothing of what you do!"

‘When will I ever get as thick-skinned as this old man?’ Lin Wanrong sighed inwardly, full of admiration.

Gao Ping hurriedly entered and whispered a few words into the Emperor's ear. Zhao Yuanyu nodded, glanced at Lin Wanrong, and said, "I need to return to the palace; we have a message from Goryeo. Oh, and about that young palace maid of yours—"

Young palace maid? Seo Jang Geum? Lin Wanrong was stunned. Could she really be pregnant? If so, the Lin family would be set for life.

"Don't ask; even if you do, I won't tell you. Focus on the tasks at hand," the Emperor chuckled, patted Lin Wanrong on the shoulder, and walked away.

As he reached the doorway, he paused, lingering in thought. "Lin San, take good care of Miss Guo."

‘Take good care? In what manner?’ Lin Wanrong was puzzled, but then heard the Emperor sigh, "If you can convince her to stay, that would be ideal. If she truly wishes to leave, see her off warmly and tell her that Mr. Zhao will never forget those days."

With those words, he hurriedly left. Lin Wanrong stood there, contemplating. Even someone as powerful and wealthy as the Emperor had unattainable desires. Who could claim a perfect life? His mind wandered to a myriad of past events, and his expression grew increasingly somber. Sister An was trapped in the Miao village, Fairy Ning was alone in the mountains, and now even Madam Xiao was leaving. Life was like a flowing river, and who could stop its currents?

Hours dragged on until dusk set in. Yet, sleep eluded him, leaving him agitated. "Xian'er, I want to go for a walk. Xian'er, Xian'er—"

He called out several times, but there was no response. Just as he was about to call again, a subtle fragrance drifted through the air, and a soft female voice resonated beside him, "Where are you going?"

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