Chapter 866 - 767: Knowing Too Much_3

Chapter 866: Chapter 767: Knowing Too Much_3

Prince Xin noticed that his father did not question him, but instead questioned his son, and after initially being taken aback, a secret joy surged within him.

Prince Xin’s son was also surprised, as usually in such situations, they—the grandchildren—were mere listeners, since their fathers were present, so when would they have a turn to speak?

Except for Huangfu Yuxuan, since Prince Liang, having served as the Crown Prince for many years, held official duties, and even at a young age, he was able to stand apart from the court.

When the Emperor posed a question, Prince Xin’s son was both happy and slightly nervous; he quickly set down his wine cup, performed a salute, and said, "Grandfather, your grandson believes that the candidate should be both dignified and knowledgeable, of noble birth, and with outstanding appearance, as she represents Nanxia in a matrimonial alliance, not losing Nanxia’s honor."

Isn’t this obvious? Everyone knows these are necessary qualities, but the Emperor pointed to Prince Xin’s son first, letting him speak those words upfront.

The Emperor nodded with a smile, took a bite of food, and his gaze shifted to Prince Lu’s son: "Zong Han, let’s hear your thoughts!"

Prince Lu’s son bowed with a salute, saying, "Grandfather, Yanlong is right. Grandfather could select a lady from among the noble families, confer her the title of Princess, and send her for the alliance marriage. However, as for the specific candidate, your grandson is not familiar with the daughters of the Capital’s nobility, so dare not recommend recklessly!"

The Emperor questioned two princely heirs, while Prince Li’s gaze was deep; one from Xin and Lu lowered his brows, hiding the light in his eyes, and the other suppressed the different expression in his eyes with drinking. Their father’s true intention was not about choosing a marriage candidate; he was clearly testing the Imperial Grandsons. Why the test? It relates to their speculation that the Emperor has yet to confirm which prince will be made Crown Prince, thus testing the third generation.

Didn’t see that he only asked Prince Lu’s son and Prince Xin’s son?

And this time, Old Fifth and Prince Cheng’s Heir were absent, so Father completely excluded Old Fifth.

Yet, it’s hardly a test, as it’s a simple matter, could also be perceived as the Emperor merely taking this chance to get closer to his grandchildren!

The Emperor asked, "Are you familiar, Yanlong?"

Prince Xin’s son’ eyes lit up, smiled slightly, and said, "Grandfather, representing Nanxia in an alliance marriage to East Tang is a favor granted by Grandfather. Grandfather can select a suitable candidate from the noble ladies, assured that whoever is chosen, the noble lady will be glad to serve the nation!"

Prince Lu’s son’s gaze deepened; normally, he was close to this cousin, yet didn’t realize that his straightforward, impulsive demeanor was all feigned. Before Grandfather, he dropped the pretense.

The Emperor regarded his grandchildren, appearing particularly amiable and kind, saying, "Although indeed I can make the decision, voluntary acceptance is best!"

By "voluntary," he naturally meant the willingness of the lady’s family, not the lady herself.

The Emperor’s gaze fell upon Huangfu Yuxuan, saying, "Yuxuan, share your thoughts. You grew up in the Capital City and are probably more familiar with the noble ladies here than your two cousins!"

Huangfu Yuxuan, previously quietly drinking, calmly replied, "Grandfather, while my brothers deem noble families’ daughters as suitable, your grandson believes ordinary noble daughters are not fit; it’s best to choose from within the imperial family!"

"Hmm, elaborate!"

Huangfu Yuxuan said, "I’ve heard that the East Tang envoy is seeking a bride for the Third Prince of East Tang. This Third Prince of East Tang, a true brother to the Crown Prince of East Tang, is said to be gifted in both arts and handsome, born from an extremely distinguished lineage. The East Tang envoy will surely inquire about the background of the marriage candidate; a mere ordinary noblewoman might cause East Tang to feel Nanxia lacks sincerity. The alliance, intended as a diplomatic bond, might thus achieve the opposite effect?"

The Emperor nodded, just about to speak, when Huangfu Yuxuan continued, "With Grandfather’s consultation, your grandson boldly suggests selecting a Commandery Princess from the imperial family!"

The Emperor raised his brows with an unexpected expression, saying, "Judging by your words, it seems you even have a candidate in mind?"

Huangfu Yuxuan smiled softly and said, "Grandfather, indeed, when you asked brother Han, I immediately considered this and do have a candidate to recommend! If Grandfather doesn’t deem your grandson too young and unreliable, your grandson is willing to alleviate your concerns!"

"Oh? How would you ease my concerns?" The Emperor smiled.

Huangfu Yuxuan replied confidently, "Your grandson volunteers to oversee all matters pertaining to the alliance marriage!"

The Emperor, clearly interested and in good spirits, said, "All matters? If you truly can manage them, you would indeed ease my concerns! You mentioned having a candidate to recommend; tell me, who do you plan to suggest?"