Chapter 730: Grab A Grandson!
Grab A Grandson! . . .
"What are you discussing?" Prime Minister Zuo wore a displeased expression as he directed his gaze toward an elderly man. "That's ancient history. Let me enlighten you. My Wuji has been cured. The Feng Monarch of Ling-Bao Hall provided him with excellent treatment, ridding him of that undisclosed ailment."
With evident joy, Prime Minister Zuo chuckled. "In addition, there's another piece of news: Wuji's wife is expecting a child. My great-grandson will soon make his entrance into the world!"
The four other elderly gentlemen displayed surprise. "Really, Old Zuo? Are you being serious?"
Prime Minister Zuo beamed with happiness as he solemnly declared, "I swear, if I'm lying, I'll turn into an old tortoise!"
A second elderly man drew near and said, "Prime Minister, Old Zuo, we go way back. You remember my granddaughter, don't you? She's remarkably beautiful. Her eyes are enchanting. Perhaps it's time to solidify our connection even further."
The third elderly gentleman chimed in, "Old Zuo, you must exercise caution when selecting a wife for Wuji. A man's choice of spouse significantly influences his life. My third granddaughter, whom you've met, is a paragon of grace. She's not only gentle and courteous but also an excellent cook. She possesses a wealth of knowledge. I believe she's the ideal match for your family."
The first elderly man scoffed, "Enough with the boasting. Your third granddaughter? She's been recklessly galloping on a massive horse and intimidating folks in the capital. She has a reputation, you know! Gentle and polite? What an exaggeration! Have you no shame? Your old age has made you even more disingenuous. Old Zuo, you've seen my eldest granddaughter. She's the perfect match for Wu Ji, don't you think?"
Another elderly gentleman raised his voice, "Old Zuo, my granddaughter is the most stunning girl in the entire kingdom..."
"Nonsense!"
"You're talking nonsense!"
"Your granddaughter doesn't hold a candle to mine."
"You rascal! Your granddaughter is nothing special!"
The four elderly men ground their teeth and locked eyes, as if they were preparing for battle. Their camaraderie appeared on the brink of shattering.
Prime Minister Zuo was beside himself with laughter, unable to close his mouth. [They say a hundred families compete for a single excellent woman. My fine grandson – four families are vying for him!] After a moment, he addressed the four bickering elders. "I can't possibly choose all of your granddaughters. I need to be cautious; it's Wuji's life, after all. I must give it further thought. Here's an idea: send your granddaughters to my residence, and let my grandson make the selection. We'll judge for ourselves and determine the most suitable match..."
The four elderly men collectively shouted, "Get lost!"
[Who does he think he is, drafting our granddaughters...]
However, after their time in the court, these elders were well aware of Zuo Wuji's considerable potential.
[The Prime Minister's grandson is bound for greatness. He's already a prominent figure in the court, and the best part is that his grandfather didn't intervene, except for introducing him to the king.]
[He's earned his place through merit.]
[He remains steadfast because of his competence.]
[And one more thing – Zuo Wuji understands the king's innermost thoughts!]
[In court, the ability to observe is of paramount importance.]
[And he excels at it! Who knows how far he'll rise in the future?]
In fact, the elderly men were privy to the king's intentions. He was grooming Zuo Wuji, and as long as Wuji didn't commit any foolish acts, he was destined to become the most influential official in the kingdom in the future.
He comprehended the king's mindset.
That, in itself, was the most valuable asset he possessed.
Who wouldn't aspire to have a connection with such an extraordinary man? This thought resonated among the elderly gentlemen, who were acutely aware of their own aging and the limited prospects of their own children. They recognized that once they retired, their family legacies were at risk of fading into obscurity. However, if Zuo Wuji were to become their son-in-law or grandson-in-law, their hopes would receive a tremendous boost.
Every one of them yearned for such a promising addition to their lineage, particularly Zuo Wuji as their prospective relative. These sentiments were so potent that the five elderly men temporarily disregarded the king's assigned task in favor of discussing the potential addition to their families.
During their animated conversation, Zuo Wuji approached them with a look of puzzlement. "Esteemed elders, the king has just entrusted us with a significant task. How should we proceed? May I seek your guidance?"
The elders were contented with his question, convinced that their support for him was well-placed. "Well, the king did place you in charge, didn't he?" one of them replied. "We'll simply follow your lead."
Zuo Wuji offered a slightly rueful smile. "Indeed, the king did appoint me, but he's a wise monarch. He knows I lack the experience for such a responsibility. He intends for me to learn from your wisdom and guidance. I can see that."
Even Prime Minister Zuo nodded in agreement, acknowledging his grandson's astuteness. The other four elders beamed with approval, their gazes filled with admiration.
[Listen to him! What eloquence!]
[In any circumstance, he speaks so adeptly. His future is indeed bright. I am certain Zuo Wuji will become one of the most influential figures in the kingdom, second only to the king! I can foresee it!]
"Son, I remember a conversation we had when you were just a child," Lord Sun said as he stroked his beard, addressing Zuo Wuji, "We promised to unite you with my granddaughter in matrimony. Now that you've grown up, perhaps we should discuss this matter earnestly..."
"Marriage?" Zuo Wuji was left in shock.
And indeed, it was a shocking revelation. Since he was a child, he was aware of his physical condition. Now, the elderly man claimed he was meant to marry his granddaughter, raising questions he had never considered.
"You old coot! You're a liar!" the other three elderly men exclaimed in unison. "It was I who made that promise with Prime Minister Zuo!"
The four elderly gentlemen reignited their spirited dispute, each one possessing an abundance of cunning. Outwitting them was no simple task.
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